Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a disorder which often presents with symptoms quite early in a child’s development and it is reported that about 3-7% of school-age children suffer from this condition.
Boys are more commonly affected than girls. The signs to look for are as follows.
Inattentiveness
- Short attention span and easily prone to distraction
- Making careless mistakes, repeatedly – for example, in schoolwork
- Appearing forgetful or often losing things
- Being unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming
- Appearing to be unable to listen to or carry out instructions
- Constantly changing activities or tasks
- Having difficulty organizing tasks
Hyperactivity and impulsiveness
- Being unable to sit still, especially in calm or quiet surroundings
- Constant fidgeting
- Being unable to concentrate on tasks
- Excessive physical movement
- Excessive talking
- Being unable to wait their turn
- Acting without thinking
- Interrupting conversations
- Little or no sense of danger
These symptoms can cause significant problems in a child’s life, such as underachievement at school, poor social interaction with other children and adults and problems with discipline.
Additional difficulties that can often co-exist with ADHD are:
- Anxiety Disorder
- Autism
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
- Conduct Disorder
- Sleep Problems
ADHD Assessment
The assessment involves taking a detailed developmental history from parents and other information such as family and personal history , school/education history and observation of the child. As part of the assessment we also offer a QB check (www.qbtech.com) -done remotely. QbCheck is a computer-based test that objectively measures the three core symptoms of ADHD; activity, inattention, and impulsivity.
For details about the ADHD pathway – go on this link https://www.cmhclinic.co.uk/assessment/
ADHD Medication
Medication can play an important role in the management of ADHD when symptoms are moderate or severe.
The clinic can prescribe a range of ADHD medications and has a well established ADHD medication service – for further details, go on this link https://www.cmhclinic.co.uk/adhd-medication-service/
If you suspect your child may have ADHD, make an enquiry by going on this link CMHC Enquiry_Form
Get in touch
Our specialist team of child psychiatrists and psychologists can offer comprehensive assessments and provide clear recommendations to help support you and your child.