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It can be overwhelming taking that first step in choosing to have an ADHD assessment of your child, with so many questions. At Lavendla, we give you a clear and thorough insight into the process to help make the difficult easier.
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neuropsychiatric disorder that affects attention, impulse control and overactivity.
There are several factors that contribute to the development of ADHD such as heredity, poor working memory and biological factors such as dopamine and noradrenaline. Children with ADHD may also have difficulty managing their emotions and have poor self-esteem and self-image.
Each child’s experience with ADHD is unique, making a thorough assessment essential.
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Before we start an ADHD assessment, it is important that you identify the symptoms. These may include:
As a private provider, we can offer faster access to assessment and individualised treatment plans. In addition, you can choose a specialist who has experience working specifically with children.
An ADHD assessment with a private health provider follows the same procedure as if you were to go through the NHS. Many of our staff have previously worked in psychiatry and use the same processes with us.
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Each child is unique, so it is important that the assessment process is tailored to the specific needs of each child. Symptoms of ADHD can have many causes and before starting an assessment it is important to rule out that the symptoms are not due to other factors in the child’s life. These may include stress, parenting difficulties or bullying. Schools also have a duty to put measures in place to support students and it is good to have a dialogue with the school. An individual plan ensures that your child receives the most effective support for them.
An ADHD assessment takes about 20 hours and is completed in about 2-3 months. If an ADHD diagnosis is made, it is important to discuss treatment options with the investigator. Interventions should include the child’s school which is required to provide support. Treatment can include medication, psychological treatment with cognitive behavioural therapy, or a combination of both. It is important for parents receive help with understanding the problem and how to provide parenting.
If you or someone you know has lived with undiagnosed ADHD, it may have been a tough journey. But remember, it’s never too late to seek help and get the care you need. The first step is to talk to a healthcare provider who can guide you through assessment and diagnosis.
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An assessment can give you answers and an understanding of your child’s potential difficulties, which in turn can lead to better support and help. It can also be a relief to have an explanation for certain behaviours or challenges. There are hereditary factors in ADHD, so it is not uncommon for parents to identify symptoms in themselves as well.
Seeking help for your child is a big step and Lavendla is here to support you through the process. Remember, an assessment can be the start of a journey towards understanding and support, which can make a significant difference in your child’s life.
An ADHD assessment is a process in which psychologists and doctors carry out various tests and interviews to determine whether a person has an attention problem with impulsivity and hyperactivity.
The assessment typically includes cognitive tests, diagnostic interviews and a thorough medical and psychological history to understand the child’s history and current situation, involving both parents and the school.
The duration of an ADHD assessment can vary, but it usually takes at least 20 hours and is usually completed in about 2-3 months.
Symptoms that may warrant an assessment for ADHD in children include difficulty listening, being easily distracted, forgetting and losing things, restlessness and difficulty sitting still.
An ADHD assessment usually involves children between the ages of 5-12 years. Before that, the child is too young and after that, adolescent development can make it difficult to distinguish symptoms of ADHD. It can be helpful to have tried preventative measures before starting an assessment. It is also possible to have unnoticed symptoms that only become apparent or problematic in adulthood as demands and responsibilities increase, which can lead to a late diagnosis.
Children can be disruptive and this does not mean that it is due to ADHD. It could be difficulties in expressing their feelings and getting their needs met. Adolescence is also a time of great change. That’s why it’s important to have a thorough assessment before an investigation to get the right support.
NHS treatment requires a referral from a GP. Private clinics such as Lavendla accept patients without a referral and usually have shorter waiting times.
Treatment can include extra support measures at school, but also medication, cognitive behavioural therapy adapted to ADHD, and support strategies to cope with everyday life. It is also important to educate parents and caregivers about the condition.
It is important to talk to the child about the assessment and to have a dialogue with the school to get an overall picture of the child’s problems. If there has been previous treatment, it is a good idea to bring that documentation to the investigator.
ADHD cannot be cured, but one third of all those diagnosed as children do not have symptoms of ADHD as adults. This suggests that symptoms can change over time as the brain matures, so it is important that a thorough assessment is carried out so the child gets the right help.
ADD is ADHD with mainly symptoms of inattention and not hyperactivity and impulsivity.
We do a thorough assessment to rule out and treat other psychological problems that may be related to ADHD.
Seeking help and treatment for ADHD is an important process that can significantly improve quality of life. If you suspect that your child is suffering from ADHD-related symptoms, you can follow these steps:
Note when and how your children experience symptoms and how it affects your daily life. This may include forgetfulness, difficulty organising tasks, or intense activity levels.
Make an appointment with a licensed psychologist for an initial assessment. Here you can find out if it would be helpful to proceed with an assessment.
A doctor and psychologist will work together in the assessment, conducting interviews and cognitive tests to determine whether your child’s symptoms are consistent with ADHD. It is important that the school is also included in the assessment.
After diagnosis, we develop a treatment plan. This includes feedback to the school and interventions that may include medication, therapy, and support for parents.
Stimulant and non-stimulant drugs may be prescribed to help control symptoms. The effects and side effects of the drugs will be closely monitored.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) adapted for ADHD may be recommended to help manage symptoms. Caregiver education and parental support are also important.
The school plays an important role in a child’s assessment. Sometimes it is the school itself that initiates an investigation, but regardless, it is important they are involved in the investigation to ensure the child receives the right interventions.
Regular follow-up meetings with the doctor and psychologist for adjustments to the treatment plan are required, also to deal with any side effects or questions.
Lifestyle is important for children with ADHD and routines such as regular exercise, a healthy diet and adequate sleep are essential. It is also important to teach your child how to manage their emotions, set healthy boundaries and build on their strengths. ADHD can lead to problems with self-esteem and self-image, so it is important to see your child for who they are and accept them despite their difficulties.
As starting treatment can often seem daunting or challenging, the best first step can be just having a conversation with a psychologist or therapist. This is why Lavendla recommends booking an introductory session with one of our therapists to discuss your child’s situation and make a plan for an assessment if necessary. We help make the difficult easier.