ADHD must be diagnosed by a qualified psychiatrist or psychologist like our team at Child Mental Health Clinic.
It’s vital not to diagnose your child, or let a teenager self-diagnose themselves. An expert will take a detailed medical and psychological history, review your child’s symptoms and gather information from parents and their school if needed.
The diagnostic criteria for ADHD are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). To be diagnosed with this condition, an individual must exhibit a persistent pattern of behaviour that interferes with daily life.
During an assessment, it’s vital to rule out other explanations for ADHD symptoms, such as learning disability, depression and anxiety.
What do ADHD treatments involve?
The management of ADHD usually involves a combination of behavioural therapies, learning coping strategies and medication. However, the approach varies depending on individual needs and preferences:
Parents of children with ADHD can benefit from training in techniques to manage and support their child’s behaviour.
Healthy lifestyle choices can also help with other treatments.
This includes taking regular exercise, a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and stress management. Teaching individuals with ADHD self-regulation and time-management techniques can be beneficial.
It’s important for individuals diagnosed with ADHD to work closely with their healthcare providers to find the most effective and suitable combination of treatments for their condition. Additionally, ongoing monitoring and adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary to ensure optimal management of ADHD symptoms.
Find out more about our ADHD assessments in Camberley, Surrey.