Understanding ADHD
A comprehensive guide exploring ADHD aimed at parents and carers. This resource has been developed in partnership with the ADHD Foundation.
Introduction
Many parents and carers of children who are showing early signs and symptoms of ADHD often wonder what are the causes, how it can be diagnosed at an early age, and what sort of help is available.
If you suspect your child has ADHD or if they have received a diagnosis, there is a variety of help and support available. This article will take you through a range of resources for understanding and supporting your child's needs as well as providing answers to commonly asked questions and practical advice and support. It is also important to note, whilst ADHD is a medically recognised term, the most important thing is developing an understanding and respect for the individual.
Please click the link below to jump to a particular section of the resource:
2.0 What are the traits of ADHD
3.0 My child is not hyperactive, can they still have ADHD?
4.0 Is ADHD a brain-based condition?
5.0 What treatment is available for ADHD?
6.0 Can ADHD affect my child's sleep?
7.0 I've heard that Executive Functioning is affected for people with ADHD. What is Executive Functioning?
1.0 What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that makes it difficult for children to concentrate, sustain attention, sit still, follow directions and control impulsive behaviour. These symptoms make it difficult for children and young people to follow through on tasks in age-appropriate ways which can make classroom-based learning challenging at times.
Supporting resources
2.0 What are the traits of ADHD?
The traits of ADHD can be divided into two groups: inattentive behaviours and hyperactive and impulsive behaviours.
Inattentive traits can include:
- Being very distractible
- Having difficulty remembering
- Poor organisation
Hyperactive and impulsive traits can include:
- Impatience
- Excessive movement
- Talking and interrupting
- Difficulties turn-taking
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3.0 My child is not hyperactive, can they still have ADHD?
Yes. Children and young people who are inattentive but not particularly restless or impulsive can have what is called “Inattentive type ADHD.” They tend to be diagnosed later because they are missed due to the absence of hyperactivity. However, Inattentive type ADHD can still result in many challenges for the child or young person, particularly in learning environments.
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5.0 What treatment is available for ADHD?
There are a variety of research-backed therapies that can help relieve symptoms of ADHD. Some of the most effective approaches combine several therapies, such as medication. Stimulant medications (Ritalin or Concerta) are the most commonly prescribed. These drugs stimulate the parts of the brain that are understimulated. These parts of the brain are related to thinking and attention. The goals of these medications are to reduce hyperactivity/impulsivity and increase focus/attention. Another example is Cognitive behavioural therapy. This approach emphasises mindfulness and teaches a child to be aware of their emotions as a way of improving attention.
Supporting resources
6.0 Can ADHD affect my child’s sleep?
Yes, children and young people can experience difficulties with sleep. This can result in not falling asleep easily, not sleeping soundly through the night and then not waking up feeling refreshed. The mental and physical restlessness of ADHD can disturb a child’s sleep patterns. This can then exacerbate problems with concentration and focus throughout your child’s day in school.
Supporting resources
7.0 I’ve heard that Executive Functioning is affected for people with ADHD. What is Executive Functioning?
Executive functioning is the way in which your brain plans and organises itself. The functions are self-regulating skills that we all use to accomplish tasks, for example, target setting, prioritising, self-monitoring and time management. homework. It is very common that children and young people with ADHD will have difficulties in these areas.
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9.0 ADHD and Co-ocurrence
It is common that ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions will run alongside each other. Other neurodevelopmental conditions include Autism, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Tourettes, Dyscalculia etc. For some children, they may receive a diagnosis of 2 or more conditions. This means that they are co-occurring. For some children, the co-occurring conditions are easily identified but for others, it can take some time.
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10.0 Support organisations
The following is a list of websites and organisations that can help you. While we have done our best to list the most up to date and relevant information on this subject, please be advised that all the sources are constantly changing and new information will be added regularly so it is important to call back again if you need updated advice. Websites are listed alphabetically by name or narrow subject category.
ADD / ADHD Online Information - www.adders.org
Addup - http://www.addup.co.uk
ADDISS - www.addiss.co.uk
ADHD Foundation - https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/
ADHD Voices - www.adhdvoices.com
CYPMHC - www.cypmhc.org.uk
Mindroom - www.mindroom.org
PATOSS - www.patoss-dyslexia.org
