Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is a common disorder that is often spoken about in schools, on parenting blogs and throughout the community. Over the years, there has been a lot of different information that has come out about ADHD, including understanding what it is, how it can affect us and our children, and what can be done to support those who experience it. All children will have difficulties with their behaviour and ability to stay focused at some point in their lives, however, with the substantial mix of information surrounding ADHD, it can be difficult to know what to look out for and whether or not it is something we need to further investigate for our children or ourselves.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, that starts to develop during a child’s developmental years. It is better explained as a neurodevelopmental difference in the way a child’s brain processes information. ADHD is characterised by a range of symptoms that will fall into two subtypes:
- Inattention
- Impulsivity/Hyperactivity
You can also have the presence of both subtypes, which is known as Combined Subtype ADHD. It is important to know that ADHD can present differently for each individual, however, people who have ADHD will generally have difficulties with paying attention, get distracted easily, find it difficult to sit still, and interrupt others during conversation. Most people will experience these difficulties sometimes, but for people with ADHD, they will generally experience difficulties with these things most or all of the time.
If you are questioning whether your child or yourself may have ADHD, here are some things to look out for:
Inattentive Difficulties
- Lacking attention to detail, and often making careless mistakes
- Difficulty sustaining attention during tasks – particularly those they are not interested in
- Easily distracted by external stimuli
- Even when spoken to directly, appearing as though they are not paying attention
- Difficulty following directions or completing tasks
- Difficulty organising day-to-day tasks and activities
Hyperactivity:
- Difficulties sitting still
- Difficulty remaining seated when appropriate to do so
- Often having an excessive amount of energy
- Talking excessively
Impulsivity:
- Difficulty waiting to answer a question before hearing the end of it
- Difficulty waiting their turn
- Difficulty with interrupting others during conversation
If you notice that your child is often experiencing some of these difficulties, it may be a good indicator of areas in which your child may need further support and intervention. If undergoing the diagnostic process is something you are interested in, it generally begins with an appointment with your GP to obtain a referral to a Psychologist or a Developmental Paediatrician.
These professionals will be able to assist in determining the next steps and if needed complete a diagnostic assessment and develop a treatment plan to support your child going forward. Going through the diagnostic process can feel scary and overwhelming at times, however, it can also be a very empowering experience, as you once having an understanding about what is going for your child and how their brain works, it can help to assist in understanding how to best support them going forward.
