ADHD

Many parents wonder if their child might have ADHD when they notice behaviors like difficulty sitting still, challenges with schoolwork, or what seems like defiant behavior. It's important to understand that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition with specific patterns that go beyond typical childhood restlessness or occasional rudeness.

ADHD involves persistent difficulties in three main areas that significantly impact daily life:

Inattention shows up as trouble focusing on tasks or activities, frequent careless mistakes, difficulty following instructions, losing important items regularly, and being easily distracted. Children might seem like they're not listening when spoken to directly or have trouble organizing tasks and activities.

Hyperactivity involves constant motion that seems driven by an internal motor - fidgeting, difficulty staying seated when expected, running or climbing inappropriately, and talking excessively. This goes beyond normal childhood energy levels.

Impulsivity appears as difficulty waiting turns, interrupting others frequently, blurting out answers before questions are finished, and making hasty decisions without considering consequences.

For an ADHD diagnosis, these behaviors must be present in multiple settings (home, school, social situations), have started before age 12, persist for at least six months, and significantly interfere with the child's functioning. The behaviors should also be inconsistent with the child's developmental level.

If you're seeing these patterns consistently across different environments and they're impacting your child's ability to succeed socially, academically, or at home, it's worth discussing with your pediatrician or seeking an evaluation from a mental health professional who specializes in ADHD. They can help determine whether what you're observing fits the diagnostic criteria or might have other explanations.

If you suspect your child has ADHD, have a chat with your child's teacher or another adult who knows them well and ask if they have any concerns with your child's behaviour, learning or interactions with friends. Sometimes young people can "hold it together" at school but then explode/ implode when they get home - if you think this might be the case, it is worthwhile seeing your GP and asking for a referral to a psychologist or paediatrician. 

The school counsellor may be able to help with screening and assessments if your child is displaying inattention, hyperactivity or other ADHD symptoms at school. All school counsellor referrals from parents go through the Learning Support Team; if you are concerned, please get in touch with the Year Advisor who can make this referral. 

Psychologists are able to diagnose ADHD, however they are not licensed to prescribe medication. If your child receives an ADHD diagnosis from a psychologist, and you feel that medication is warranted, you will also need a referral to see a paediatrician or psychiatrist for medication treatment options. This is currently an area under review in NSW, and soon some GPs will also be able to prescribe medication and monitor it's use. 

If you decide not to pursue a diagnosis, or would prefer to avoid medication, there are some other options that might be helpful such as: 

• Occupational Therapy - sensory and somatic symptoms, executive functioning strategies

• Psychology - anxiety, relationship difficulties, ADHD coaching strategies

• Routine and consistency - although your young person may struggle to stay IN a routine, having one is helpful as it removes the pressure of thinking about what they have to do next. If you can simplify life, by reducing demands and giving one instruction at a time, this can also be helpful. 

• Remember that the behaviour you see is not always chosen - kids with ADHD often seem naughty or rude, however it's important to remember that sometimes your young person is not intentionally ignoring or disobeying you.  It's important to know the difference so that you can guide when they get off track rather than reactively disciplining.