💫What to Do if You Suspect Your Child Has ADHD and the Diagnosis Pathway - ADHD Awareness Month💫

Mary_Scope

Part One - What Is ADHD?

If you’re starting to wonder whether your child might have ADHD, you're not alone.

Many parents and carers find themselves asking questions when they notice their child is more inattentive, impulsive or active than others their age.

This is why I have created this post which I hope will be helpful in providing some practical support and guidance over what you can do as parents if you think your child may have ADHD.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Child Has ADHD?

• Start by Noticing Patterns

Keeping a behaviour diary you're concerned about is really helpful. Are they happening at home, school, or both? Do they affect your child’s friendships, learning or self-esteem? Patterns over time can help professionals understand what’s going on and show that is not a one off or sudden occurrence which can make it a bit easier to get support.

• Speak to Your Child’s Teacher or School SENCO

It’s really good to have a meeting with your childs teacher or SENCO. Teachers can offer insight into how your child is managing in the classroom and they might already have noticed some signs and can provide useful observations and support strategies.

• Book an Appointment with Your GP

Your GP is usually the first step in the NHS diagnosis pathway. Take along your notes and any school feedback. They may use a questionnaire or screening tool to better understand your child’s behaviours.

How Can I Get My Child An ADHD Assessment?

• GP Referral

If your GP agrees that ADHD is a possibility then they may refer your child to a paediatrician or Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

• Right To Choose (England Only)

If you're in England, you have a legal Right to Choose yours and your childs NHS mental healthcare provider which means you can request a referral to an alternative provider if local ADHD assessment waiting times are too long.

• Private Assessment

A private assessment should be directly equivalent to an NHS assessment and should have equal weight with any school. But, it does not automatically entitle your child to access NHS resources including GP care or NHS Prescriptions and private assessments can be very, very expensive!

What Is An ADHD Assessment Like?

The assessment is usually with a developmental paediatrician or child psychiatrist and typically lasts 60–90 minutes. They will look at your child’s overall development, focusing

on any areas of difficulty. You'll be asked questions (sometimes in the form of questionnaires) and your child may be too, depending on their age.

Sometimes, a play-based assessment is also included and they may ask your child to do a computer-based test to help assess their symptoms. Your child's school is usually given a detailed questionnaire to fill in too.

What Happens After An ADHD Diagnosis?

If ADHD is diagnosed, then you should be supported to explore the best ways to help your child. This might include behavioural strategies, educational support and sometimes medication.

Many parents find that receiving a diagnosis helps them better understand their child’s challenges and how to support them. Older children often find the process helpful too as it gives them insight into their own experiences!

How have you gone or are going through the ADHD pathway for your child? What has been your experience?