Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a behaviour disorder that is characterised by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child’s circumstances change such as starting school. Common symptoms of ADHD in children are as follows; fidgeting, do not seem to listen, often talk excessively, interrupt others, easily distracted, are in constant motion and do not finish tasks.
If you notice any signs or symptoms of ADHD in your children, we recommend first speaking to their teachers regarding their behaviour before speaking with a GP or beginning a private ADHD assessment.
If your child’s teachers agree there are signs and symptoms of ADHD, you can escalate your concerns to your GP. Although they can not officially diagnose ADHD they will be able to run through in more detail the symptoms to be aware of and begin the process of being referred to an ADHD Specialist.
Child ADHD Assessment
Whether you decide to go down the path of either NHS or private healthcare services, the assessment will be similar as it is a standardised process but it will be a specialist child and adolescent psychiatrist completing the assessment.
Prior to the full assessment, you will be asked to complete several questionnaires to support the overall assessment and diagnostic process. We aim to gather information from various sources including the child, family members, teachers and significant others who know the child well. It is also useful to have further information such as school reports or behavioural logs.
Supporting children with ADHD
At Optimise Healthcare Group we offer every patient Psychoeducation Sessions post-diagnosis. We can offer this in a group setting or individually if this is the patient's preference.
This psychoeducation provides support on how to manage ADHD in daily life. It provides valuable advice and suggestions about ways to implement beneficial changes to your lifestyle. This may include apps, reminders, checklists, useful resources and an opportunity for patients to voice any concerns or ask any questions they may have to a health professional.
Additionally, we can provide support to teachers regarding teaching your child with ADHD. We also provide additional therapy options to help and support your child with not only their ADHD but the commonly associated anxieties that can be equally as distressing.