ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that commonly presents in childhood, and can also last into adulthood. ADHD can cause many challenges including one’s ability to focus at school or at work, control impulses and urges, regulate their emotions, and interact with others. Individuals with ADHD may also experience low self-esteem because they feel that they are different from others socially and academically.

Common signs of ADHD in children and adults include:

• Maintaining attention and being easily distracted
• Making careless mistakes on tasks
• Poor organisational skills and trouble following instructions
• Impulsiveness
• Being overly active for their age, constantly fidgeting or squirming
• Feeling restless and agitated
• Talking too much and not able to wait their turn, may interrupt others
• Learning and school or occupational achievement

Diagnosis for ADHD can be helpful in understanding additional supports that the individual may require at school, home or the workplace. The school may be able to provide classroom supports, classroom assistance, teaching aides, or special provisions for an individual with ADHD. Medications from a GP or psychiatrist may be suitable for some individuals. We can also provide behavioural strategies and intervention that can help in improving self-management and coping skills.

An assessment for ADHD usually includes the following:

1. Developmental interview with parents or individual if person is adult 18+
2. Behavioural assessment
3. Cognitive assessment
4. Feedback session to discuss the assessment results and report, and deliver recommendations and treatment plan