Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, more commonly known as ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder which is characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity. In this article, Dr Kalia looks in detail at the symptoms and provides advice on how to manage and treat the condition.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is defined as a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. We suspect attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if there are at least six (five in adults) inattention symptoms and/or at least six (five in adults) hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms.
Symptoms of ADHD
Inattention symptoms can include:
- Failing to give close attention to detail or making careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
- Difficulty in maintaining concentration when performing tasks or play activities.
- Appearing not to listen to what is being said, as if the mind is elsewhere.
- Failing to follow through on instructions or finish a task (not because of oppositional behaviour or failure to understand).
- Losing items necessary for tasks or activities such as pencils, mobile phones, or wallets.
- Forgetfulness with regard to daily activities.
Hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms include:
- Fidgeting with or tapping hands or feet or squirming when seated.
- Leaving the seat where remaining seated is expected, such as in a classroom.
- Running about or climbing in situations where inappropriate. In adolescents or adults, this may be limited to a feeling of restlessness.
- Being ‘on the go’ or acting as if ‘driven by a motor’. Others may experience the person to be restless or difficult to keep up with.
- Talking excessively.
- Blurting out an answer before a question has been completed.
- Difficulty waiting his or her turn.
- Interrupting or intruding on others.
How do we manage someone with suspected ADHD?
The formal diagnosis and treatment of ADHD is often carried out by a specialist following a referral from general practice. However, some children, with symptoms that are causing only a moderate impairment to their ability to function socially and at school, can initially be managed in general practice with self-help, simple behavioural management, or parent support programmes.
We refer children to a child and adolescent psychiatrist and adults to an adult psychiatrist with specialist interest in ADHD where:
- Symptoms are severe
- A period of watchful waiting is not acceptable
- Behavioural and/or attention problems persist with at least moderate impairment following a period of watchful waiting.
How do we treat confirmed attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Treatment should be initiated and coordinated by a specialist psychiatrist and may involve medication or behavioural intervention either on a one-to-one basis or in a group setting.
Some patients may require medication.
If appropriate, we reinforce advice to parents and carers of children and young people with ADHD about the importance of:
- Positive parent– and carer–child contact
- Clear and appropriate rules about behaviour and consistent management
- Structure in the child or young person’s day.
We can help
If you suspect that you or a family member may be displaying certain characteristics and would benefit from further support, we can help.
As well as our team of highly experienced GP’s, The Barnes Clinic also have excellent specialists who can provide further support with ADHD if required.
Consultations with Private Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Nitisha Patel and Private Adult Psychiatrist Dr Jacob Haboubi are available in clinic here at The Barnes Doctors.
Good sources of written information about ADHD self-help, as well as local and national support groups and voluntary organisations include:
The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service – ADDISS www.addiss.co.uk
Adult Attention Deficit Disorder UK – AADDUK www.aadduk.org
Mind – www.mind.org.uk
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