ADHD

ADHD is a poorly understood neurological condition affecting up to 5% adults worldwide.

Whilst ADHD is commonly thought of as a childhood condition and can lessen with maturity it can persist into adult life. Its impact can affect all areas of functioning which can lead to disruption in work, social and financial aspects of life.

Increasingly ADHD is being diagnosed in parents when their children are accessing an assessment for ADHD as recommended by the school; this is likely because in the past the symptoms of ADHD in the parent were put down to behavioural difficulties or daydreaming.

A diagnosis and treatment of ADHD can be lifechanging for an individual and their families. It can be a useful diagnosis which can help employers, universities, colleges and other institutions to understand additional needs an individual may need. ADHD is often mistakenly diagnosed as other conditions including mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorder and substance misuse. Whilst these disorders may accompany ADHD it is possible that by treating ADHD these other disorders are also treated.

Symptoms can vary in individuals but generally present in one of 3 ways or as a combination: 

1- Attention Deficit: e.g., inability to focus, disorganised behaviour, losing things, forgetfulness, difficulty maintaining attention in tasks or conversations, easily distracted

2- Hyperactivity/Impulsivity: This may present as physical restlessness such as being fidgety, tapping or restlessness. It can also present as mental restlessness which may lead to sensation seeking including substance misuse, excessive spending

3- Mood Instability: Whilst not diagnostic frequent mood changes, irritability, arguing with others may be present in ADHD

There is no one diagnostic test for ADHD. There is no blood test or scan available to make the diagnosis. Instead, the diagnosis is based on a clinical interview consisting of semi-structured and validated interviews which have a high sensitivity and specificity to diagnose ADHD. The diagnosis is based on the number, frequency and duration of symptoms and the impact of these symptoms on functioning. The diagnosis is also based on a clinical assessment to exclude other possible disorders.

As with many psychiatric conditions there is no “cure” for ADHD. However, it is possible to manage the symptoms with either medication, lifestyle adjustments, psychological therapies and education or a combination of these.

Psychological treatments can include psycho-education about ADHD, anxiety management, goal setting and strategies to improve focus and attention.

Research has shown that medication can be highly effective in treating symptoms of ADHD with 80% adults deriving benefit from medication alone. Medication is divided into either stimulant medication or non-stimulant medication. Both types of medication act on neurotransmitters in the brain to enhance concentration and reduce fatigue. The choice of medication will be discussed with you after your assessment, and you will be able to make the decision as to which option you prefer after discussion with Dr Roberts. In addition, the medication can be given either as short acting or long acting medication. This option will be discussed with you at your assessment.

Side effects will also be discussed. Most commonly these include sleep disturbance, appetite suppression, headache, nausea and dizziness. Side effects are best avoided by slow titration up of the dose.

If one medication is not tolerated Dr Roberts will consider alternatives until a suitable type is found.