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The step of starting an ADHD assessment for your child can be overwhelming and full of questions. At Lavendla, we want to give you a clear and thorough insight into the process to make the difficult part easier.
What is ADHD?
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.
ADHD Ireland estimates that approximately 5% of children and young adults in Ireland are impacted by ADHD.
Each child’s experience with ADHD is unique, making a thorough assessment essential.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
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First step: Identifying symptoms of ADHD
Before we start an ADHD assessment, it is important that you identify the symptoms. These may include:
- Difficulty maintaining attention.
- Overactive behavior.
- Impulsive actions.
- Difficulty organising and completing tasks.
- If these symptoms seem familiar and affect your child’s daily life, it may be time to consider an assessment.
Why choose Lavendla for your child’s ADHD assessment?
As a private provider, we can offer faster access to assessment and individualised treatment plans. In addition, you can often choose a specialist who has experience working specifically with children.
Private child ADHD assessment
An ADHD assessment at a private clinic follows the same procedure as if you were to go to the public healthcare system. Many of our staff have also worked in psychiatry in the past and work in the same way with us.
- First contact: You will be put in touch with a licensed psychologist who has experience in ADHD assessments for children.
- Initial meeting: We hold an initial assessment meeting to discuss your child’s symptoms and needs. This may include a discussion of the family’s medical history but also information about problems at school.
- Investigation phase:
- You will see a doctor who specialises in psychiatry for an assessment.
- We perform standardised tests to evaluate attention, impulse control and other cognitive functions.
- We conduct diagnostic interviews with the child but also with parents and teachers to get a better picture.
- Evaluation and diagnosis: After all the data has been collected, the doctor and psychologist make a joint assessment and possibly a diagnosis.
- Treatment plan: If a diagnosis of ADHD is made, an individual treatment plan is drawn up. This also includes return to school. Interventions may include medication, cognitive behavioral therapy adapted for ADHD, and caregiver training for family members.
- Follow-up and support: Regular follow-ups to review and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
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When can children be assessed for ADHD?
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.
How long does an assessment take?
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 also include school where you are entitled to support, but treatment can also include medication, psychological treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy or a combination of both. It is also important that parents receive support with understanding the problem and with their 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.
Why Lavendla?
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Why is an assessment important?
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 behaviors or challenges. There are also 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 we are here to support you through the process. Remember that an assessment can be the start of a journey towards understanding and support, which can make a significant difference in your child’s life.
12 common questions and answers about ADHD
What is an ADHD assessment for children?
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.
How does an ADHD assessment work?
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.
How long does an assessment for ADHD for children take?
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.
What are the symptoms to look out for that could indicate ADHD?
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.
At what age can an ADHD assessment be carried out?
An ADHD assessment usually looks at the age of 5-12 years, because before that the child is very young and in adolescence a lot happens in development that can make it difficult to distinguish from symptoms of ADHD. It can be helpful to have tried preventive 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.
My child often fights, does he/she have ADHD?
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.
Do I need a referral for an ADHD assessment?
In public health care, a referral from a health care center is needed. Private clinics accept patients without a referral and often have shorter waiting times.
What interventions are available if my child is diagnosed with ADHD?
Treatment can include extra support measures at school, but also medication, cognitive behavioral therapy adapted to ADHD, and support strategies to cope with everyday life. It is also important to educate parents and caregivers about the condition.
What can I do to prepare myself and my child for an ADHD assessment?
It is important to talk to the child about the assessment and to have a dialog with the school so that you can get an overall picture of the child’s problems. If there are previous services, it is a good idea to bring documentation for these to the investigator.
Can ADHD be cured?
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 that the child gets the right help.
What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
ADD is ADHD with mainly symptoms of inattention and not hyperactivity and impulsivity.
My child has other problems like sleep problems and anxiety, can I get help with this?
We do a thorough assessment to rule out and treat other psychological problems that may be related to ADHD.
Steps in ADHD treatment for children
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:
Recognise your symptoms
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.
Consult a licensed healthcare provider
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.
Evaluation and diagnosis
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.
Treatment plan
After diagnosis, we develop a treatment plan. This includes feedback to the school and interventions may include medication, therapy and support for parents.
Medication
Stimulant and non-stimulant drugs may be prescribed to help control symptoms. The effects and side effects of the drugs will be closely monitored.
Therapy and support
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) adapted for ADHD may be recommended to help manage symptoms. Caregiver education and parental support are also important.
Adaptations at school
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 that they are involved in the investigation to ensure that the child receives the right interventions during his or her time at school.
Follow-up and adjustment
Regular follow-up meetings with the treating doctor and psychologist to adjust the treatment plan as needed and to deal with any side effects or questions.
What I can do for my child in everyday life
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 step in the right direction can be just having a conversation with a psychologist or therapist. This is why we offer introductory sessions with our therapists where you can be seen over video for 20 or 45 minutes. So you can book a call just to feel how it feels, all to make the hard stuff easier.
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