Support Your Child's Development with Mentalwell's ADHD Assessment Service
Children & Families
Welcome to Mentalwell's specialised ADHD assessment service, which is designed to support children and their families. If you suspect your child may have ADHD, our clinicians are here to provide the guidance and support you need.
Why Mentalwell?
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Mentalwell offers early intervention through timely ADHD assessments, enabling you to address potential challenges before they escalate.
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With Mentalwell, you'll receive expert guidance from experienced professionals specialising in ADHD.
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We understand that ADHD affects various aspects of a child's life. That's why our platform offers holistic service through additional resources and support.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how different areas of the brain mature and communicate. ADHD always begins in childhood, although the specific way it presents can change as a child grows.
This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the symptoms of ADHD in children, the process of diagnosis in the UK, and the various forms of support available for children and their families.
Which ADHD Symptoms Are Children More Likely to Experience?
Children with ADHD can experience a range of symptoms that fall under the inattentive and/or hyperactive/impulsive categories. These symptoms must be present in at least two different settings (e.g., at home and at school) and cause significant impairment in the child's functioning.
For a diagnosis of predominantly inattentive ADHD, a child must exhibit at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months:
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Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, homework, or other activities.
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Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
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Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
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Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to complete schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, sidetracked).
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Often has difficulty organising tasks and activities.
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Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework).
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Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, spectacles, mobile phones).
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Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli or unrelated thoughts (in older adolescents and adults).
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Is often forgetful in daily activities.
How Common is ADHD in Children in the UK?
ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions in childhood. Estimates of prevalence in the UK vary slightly, but most research suggests that around 3-5% of school-aged children may have ADHD.
Boys are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls in childhood, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 2:1 to 4:1, although this gap is narrowing as understanding of ADHD in girls improves.
How is ADHD Diagnosed in Children in the UK?
Diagnosing ADHD in children is a multi-faceted process typically conducted by a healthcare professional experienced in childhood neurodevelopmental conditions, often a paediatrician, child and adolescent psychiatrist.
The process usually involves:
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Gathering information from multiple sources: This includes detailed interviews with parents/carers, the child (depending on their age), and often teachers.
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Using standardised rating scales and questionnaires: Tools like the SNAP-IV or the Conners' Rating Scales are commonly used to assess the frequency and severity of ADHD symptoms in different settings.
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Observing the child's behaviour: Clinicians may observe the child's behaviour during the assessment.
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Considering other potential conditions: A thorough assessment will rule out or identify any other conditions that may be causing or contributing to the child's difficulties.
It's important to note that there is no single test (like a blood test or brain scan) that can definitively diagnose ADHD. The diagnosis is based on a comprehensive evaluation of the child's symptoms and their impact on their daily life.
How is ADHD Treated in Children, and Is There a Cure?
While there is no "cure" for ADHD, it is a highly treatable condition. The most effective treatment plans often involve a combination of approaches tailored to the individual child's needs and circumstances.
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Medication: For many children with ADHD, medication can be a very effective part of their treatment plan. Stimulant medications (such as methylphenidate and amphetamine-based medications) are the most commonly prescribed and work by improving the balance of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Non-stimulant medications are also available and may be a suitable option for some children.
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Psychological and Behavioural Therapies: These therapies are a crucial component of ADHD treatment.
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Parent Training: This helps parents understand ADHD and develop strategies to manage their child's behaviour and create a supportive home environment.
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Behavioural Therapy for Children: This focuses on teaching children strategies to manage their symptoms, improve self-control, and develop better social skills.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): For older children and adolescents, CBT can help with managing emotions, improving problem-solving skills, and developing more positive thought patterns.
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School-Based Support: Collaboration between parents, clinicians, and the school is essential. Schools can provide accommodations and support to help children with ADHD succeed academically and socially.
Possible Complications and Side Effects of Treatment
Like all medications, ADHD medications can have potential side effects. These vary depending on the specific medication.
Common side effects of stimulant medication can include reduced appetite and sleep difficulties. It is vital for parents to discuss any potential side effects and concerns with their child's healthcare provider. The healthcare provider can monitor the child's response to medication and make adjustments as needed.
Outlook and Prognosis for Children with ADHD
With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, the outlook for children with ADHD is generally positive. While ADHD is a lifelong condition, many individuals learn to manage their symptoms effectively and lead successful and fulfilling lives.
Untreated or unmanaged ADHD in childhood can lead to difficulties in various areas, including:
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Academic underachievement.
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Challenges with peer relationships and social skills.
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Increased risk of accidents and injuries.
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Higher rates of other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
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Difficulties with self-esteem.
However, it's also important to recognise that children with ADHD often possess many strengths, including creativity, high energy levels, and a unique way of thinking. Effective support can help children harness these strengths and thrive.
A Note from Mentalwell
If you are concerned about your child's behaviour or development and suspect ADHD, please don't hesitate to seek professional advice. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate support can make a significant positive difference in your child's life, helping them to reach their full potential.
We are here to provide the guidance and support you need on this journey.
What is ADHD in Children?
ADHD is a condition that primarily affects a set of skills known as executive functions. These functions are crucial for managing attention, concentration, impulse control, emotional regulation, and self-motivation.
There are three main presentations of ADHD in children: predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive, and combined. The specific presentation depends on which symptoms a child exhibits. Both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations have nine possible symptoms each.
For a diagnosis of a particular presentation, a child must display at least six of its symptoms for at least six months in a way that is disruptive and inconsistent with their developmental level. The combined presentation is diagnosed when a child meets the criteria for both the inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive presentations (meaning at least twelve symptoms in total) for more than six months.
It's important to note that the most common presentation of ADHD in young children is the hyperactive/impulsive type, making these symptoms more readily apparent in a classroom or family setting.
For a diagnosis of predominantly hyperactive/impulsive ADHD, a child must exhibit at least six of the following symptoms for at least six months:
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Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat.
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Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected.
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Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to feeling restless).
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Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
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Is often "on the go" acting as if "driven by a motor."
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Often talks excessively.
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Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed.
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Often has difficulty waiting his or her turn.
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Often interrupts or intrigues on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games).
What Causes ADHD in Children?
The exact causes of ADHD are not fully understood, but research strongly indicates a significant genetic component. Children with a parent or sibling who has ADHD are more likely to develop the condition themselves.
ADHD is considered a form of neurodivergence, meaning that the brains of individuals with ADHD develop and function in a way that is different from those considered neurotypical. Research is ongoing to explore the specific differences in brain structure, neurochemistry, and the function of neurotransmitters that contribute to ADHD.
Can ADHD in Children be Prevented?
Currently, it's not possible to prevent ADHD. The exact causes are still being researched, but the strong genetic link suggests it's largely determined by biological factors.
Living Well with ADHD: Supporting Your Child
If you suspect your child may have ADHD, you have a couple of options for seeking an assessment. You could consider getting a private assessment through services like Mentalwell. This can often provide a more timely assessment. Alternatively, you can contact your General Practitioner (GP) or a paediatrician. They can discuss your concerns with you and, if appropriate, refer your child to a specialist for a comprehensive assessment.
If your child receives an ADHD diagnosis, working closely with their healthcare team to develop a personalised treatment and support plan is crucial.
This might include:
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Ensuring your child takes any prescribed medication as directed.
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Attending parent training or therapy sessions to learn effective behaviour management strategies.
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Working with the school to implement appropriate accommodations and support.
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Creating a structured and predictable home environment.
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Encouraging your child's strengths and interests.
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Being patient and understanding of your child's challenges.
Remember that finding the right approach for your child may take time and adjustment. Open communication with your child's healthcare providers and the school is essential throughout the process.
Is ADHD more common in boys or girls in childhood?
ADHD is diagnosed more frequently in boys than in girls during childhood. However, it's important to be aware that ADHD in girls can sometimes present differently, with more inattentive or subtle symptoms that may be less disruptive in the classroom, potentially leading to underdiagnosis.
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