What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) describes a developmental condition that affects how a person processes stimuli, manages competing demands and interacts with the world around them. It might be noticeable in primary school years or later as attentional needs become more demanding.
Symptoms of ADHD
Symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can affect the following areas:
Communication and interactions with other people
This may include:
- Interrupting other people and butting into games of other children without being invited
- Saying things without thinking through if this might be inappropriate or hurtful to others
- Struggling to share and take turns with other people
- Difficulty in staying focused on what other people are saying so that they may appear rude without meaning to
Ability to concentrate on tasks
This may include:
- Drifting off in lessons or struggling to complete homework that is within their capability
- Difficulty in planning and organization
- Constantly forgetting things, losing things and making careless mistakes
Overactivity
This may include:
- Tendency to fidget or squirm more than other children of the same age and gender
- Difficulty in remaining seated when expected to, even with effort
ADHD also very commonly affects sleep, particularly falling asleep in evening times.
When to consider an assessment for ADHD
There are several situations in which it may be helpful for a child or young person to have an assessment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. For instance:
- If you have concerns about your child’s development that overlap the symptoms described above.
- If your child has developed an awareness of difficulties, is questioning their skills in the areas described, and you have noticed the same issues.
- If difficulties in these areas are affecting self-esteem or causing anxiety and mood related problems.
- If an ADHD assessment has been recommended by your child’s GP, School or CAMHS service.
How an assessment for ADHD can help
Understanding your child’s lived experience is key to their development. Given the correct, tailored, targeted supports children can flourish, both in education and at home. This can only follow a detailed assessment to identify their specific strengths and difficulties at an individual level. We often find that children and young people are relieved that their experience is not so unusual, and that there are many other children, young people and adults with similar neurodiverse profiles.