ADHD
Here’s an overview of the condition
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and refers to a pattern of behaviour that affects a child in most situations, is evident from an early age and can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Core symptoms of ADHD are difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and acting impulsively (such as doing things without thinking through the consequences). Some children may present with difficulties with one or more of these core symptoms.
Organisations who can help
http://www.addiss.co.uk/ helpline number: 020 8952 2800
What are the common traits in children
One or both of the following core symptoms should be present in multiple settings (at home and at school). They are:
Inattention
A child or young person with inattention symptoms would find it difficult to pay attention to detail or makes silly mistakes when working and playing; they may not finish work or find it difficult to sustain attention for long periods; and they may often lose their belongings and be forgetful.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
A child or young person who is hyperactive and impulsive tends to be on the go and rarely sit down quietly or when they do sit they tend to fidget a lot. They may have trouble waiting their turn and will interrupt others conversation or play. They can also talk excessively.
What are the common traits in adults
Some specialists have suggested the following as a list of symptoms associated with ADHD in adults:
– carelessness and lack of attention to detail
– continually starting new tasks before finishing old ones
– poor organisational skills
– inability to focus or prioritise
– continually losing or misplacing things
– forgetfulness
– restlessness and edginess
– difficulty keeping quiet, and speaking out of turn
– blurting out responses and often interrupting others
– mood swings, irritability and a quick temper
– inability to deal with stress
– extreme impatience
– taking risks in activities, often with little or no regard for personal safety or the safety of others – for example, driving dangerously
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/symptoms/
How is it diagnosed
Psychiatrist, paediatrician or other appropriately qualified healthcare professional with training and expertise in the diagnosis of ADHD
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87/chapter/Recommendations#diagnosis
At what age can it be diagnosed
How can it be managed
ADHD can be treated using medicine or therapy, but a combination of both is often best.
Medication:
These medicines are not a permanent cure for ADHD but may help someone with the condition concentrate better, be less impulsive, feel calmer, and learn and practise new skills.
Therapy:
As well as taking medicine, different therapies can be useful in treating ADHD in children, teenagers and adults. Therapy is also effective in treating additional problems, such as conduct or anxiety disorders, that may appear with ADHD.
Here are some of the therapies that may be used.
– Psychoeducation
– Behaviour therapy
– Parent training and education programmes
– Social skills training
– Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Other possible treatments
There are other ways of treating ADHD that some people with the condition find helpful, such as cutting out certain foods and taking supplements. However, there’s no strong evidence these work, and they should not be attempted without medical advice.
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd/treatment/