Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition that affects people's behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.
Symptoms of ADHD tend to be noticed at an early age and may become more noticeable when a child's circumstances change, such as when they start school.
Most cases are diagnosed when children are under 12 years old, but sometimes it's diagnosed later in childhood. Sometimes ADHD was not recognised when someone was a child, and they are diagnosed later as an adult.
The symptoms of ADHD may improve with age, but many adults who were diagnosed with the condition at a young age continue to experience problems.
People with ADHD may also have additional problems, such as sleep and anxiety disorders.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Similarly, ADHD can present in many different ways.
These might include:
- inattentiveness (difficulty concentrating and focusing)
- hyperactivity and impulsiveness
Find out about more on ADHD UK's website or click onto the link here for more information on ADHD from the NHS
What to do if you're affected by ADHD medication shortages
Community support
There is support available in the community, such as support groups as well as activities suitable for people with autism and ADHD.
Assessments for those aged 17 and under
You need to get a referral from a professional such as a GP or Health Visitor, a teacher or a social worker. In Redcar and Cleveland, our professionals must call the Neuro Consultation Line prior to submitting a referral. The professional can be the person who knows the child best. They will need to call the Neuro Consultation line and book an appointment slot. They can then discuss your child's presentation and your concerns with the Neuro team. If the Neuro team believe there is enough evidence to go ahead with a referral they will request that the professional making the call complete a referral and submit this along with parent/carers views.
Community paediatricians are child health doctors.
They can help assess and support children with a range of special needs and disabilities.
Things they can help with include:
- autism
- ADHD
- cerebral palsy
- developmental co-ordination disorder (dyspraxia)
- special educational needs
- learning disabilities
- social communication difficulties