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What does a Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Diagnosis mean for my child:

A child with ADHD will have differences in brain activity ADHD which can cause challenges in attention, self-control and the ability to sit still. ADHD is a condition where a child or young person has difficulty concentrating and focusing, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity that are high for their age, and impact on their day-to-day life. The child or young person may not have all three of these aspects of ADHD and how severe each aspect is will vary between individuals, not all children and young people with poor attention will have ADHD.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be a lifelong condition. Your child might start to experience symptoms in childhood and find that they continue into their teenage years and as an adult. Some children may not experience this continuation into adulthood. There is some evidence that suggests this could be due to brain development or the due to the child developing strategies and abilities to manage their condition.

The right diagnosis and support is essential for children and young people with ADHD, as it supports the child/young person and their family to understand their unique strengths and challenges and allows for the right support to be put in place.

Through our service you we will build a profile for the child or young person individual needs, looking at both their strengths and challenges and will complete a report following a full assessment, outlining any diagnosis. Please note, a diagnosis is not always the outcome of an assessment. This report will be fully explained to you during your post-assessment feedback appointment. During this appointment we will explain:

  • What ADHD is, and how it may affect the child or young person.
  • The contents of the profile
  • Provide a written report of the assessment
  • Provide information and access to support resources such as books, DVDs, useful websites and local services.
  • Consider medication options and whether these are right for your child. – Making an additional appointment where appropriate.
  • Take parental consent to share information with GP and other appropriate professionals (e.g. education, social care).

You can also share this report and use it as a useful tool in supporting people to understand your child better and put in place the right care and support if needed. Here is a quick link to some useful resources:

ADHD Animation for Children and Young People - Let's talk about ADHD - YouTube

ADHD Resources for Parents - Help Your Child With ADHD | Parents Guide to Support | YoungMinds