Assessment often involves: taking a detailed developmental and psychosocial history, observation of the child and use of standardised questionnaires, sometimes psychological tests, and wherever possible consideration of the child/young person’s view of their symptoms and the impact of these on their daily life. The diagnosis is made by a qualified healthcare professional with training and expertise in ADHD (such as a Paediatrician, Psychiatrist or Clinical Psychologist). There are no specific tests used to diagnose ADHD. Young people and parents also report variability in symptoms depending on the child/young person’s interest in an activity or whether there are rewards. Children with ADHD can vary in their performance on learning tasks from one situation to another and there are several theories as to why this might be with one such theory suggesting a general impairment in regulation. Without appropriate treatment, young people with ADHD are at increased risk of developing anti-social behaviour, learning and social difficulties and emotional difficulties.Īpproximately 60 to 80 per cent of children with ADHD will have at least one other condition such as a social communication disorder, considerable language, reading (dyslexia) or motor (dyspraxia) difficulties.Ĭhildren with ADHD often have learning challenges and perform poorly on tasks that measure executive function, which are a group of behaviours that guide behaviour (such as thinking before doing, planning, organisation and so on). The impact of ADHD on girls however, particularly if ADHD is missed, can be significant. One theory is that girls tend to present with more inattentive symptoms than hyperactivity (although not always the case) and therefore are not noticed or seen as a problem. ![]() There are several possible reasons for why this might be. However, it is thought that girls may be underrepresented in referrals to ADHD services and ADHD can go unrecognised in girls. However maintaining a balanced diet, good nutrition and exercise is important.īoys are more likely than girls to be diagnosed with ADHD. Previous theories about diet causing hyperactivity are not supported by recent research. There may also be structural brain differences or differences in the actions of certain chemicals in the brain (neurotransmitters). ![]() There are also likely to be environmental factors that increase the risk of a child developing ADHD if they have a genetic predisposition. However, the inheritance is likely to be complex and there is no one gene that causes ADHD. It tends to run in families suggesting a genetic risk. There are many theories about what causes ADHD. The condition often becomes apparent when a child starts school and teachers may notice that a child finds it hard to sit still, struggles to pay attention, or blurts out answers in class.ĪDHD can have a big impact on school, peer relationships, self-esteem and family life without appropriate treatment. Some children may present with difficulties with one or more of these core symptoms.ĪDHD 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. ![]() Here we explain about ADHD and where to get help.Ĭore symptoms of ADHD are difficulty concentrating, hyperactivity, and acting impulsively (such as doing things without thinking through the consequences). However, for some children, there could be an underlying difficulty, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In most cases, this is normal behaviour and they will gradually grow out of it. It is common for children to be highly active, especially at younger ages. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).Coming to GOSH for a day or inpatient admissionĬoming to GOSH for an outpatient appointmentĬoronavirus (COVID-19) – information for children, young people and families
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