Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD

What is it and how it works?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, where ‘neuro’ signifies its impact on brain function, and ‘developmental’ indicates its presence from early childhood. This disorder is characterized by strengths and challenges, affecting around 10% of children and young individuals and significantly influencing their daily lives.

Individuals with ADHD often struggle with maintaining focus and concentration, exhibit hyperactive and restless behaviours, and have impulse control issues, such as speaking out of turn or interrupting. These challenges can impact their learning experiences in the classroom and influence their social interactions and relationships.

ADHD primarily impacts executive functioning skills. It can notably affect their ability to regulate their behaviours and emotions in younger children and young individuals.

There are 3 types of ADHD:

Combined Presentation

Where a person presents with a mix of symptoms including hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.

Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

(previously referred to as ADD)
Where a person presents with difficulties focusing, maintaining attention, and organisation.

Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

Where a person presents with several features of impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Inattentive symptoms may include:

rushing schoolwork (just to get it done)
making careless mistakes
difficulty remaining focused
avoiding tasks that are multistep or complex
leaving things until the last minute (procrastination)
poor organisational skills
being easily distracted
losing or forgetting things
daydreaming

Hyperactive-impulsive symptoms may include:

constantly talking
fidgeting and squirming
not remaining seated as expected
interrupting or difficulty waiting their turn
impulsively calling out or answering questions before instructions are finished
constantly moving

Our comprehensive assessment process involves:

Pre-assessment

Developmental and background history form completed by parents or observer.
Attention and behavioural checklists completed online prior to assessment by parents, teacher, and the young person themself (we provide links for these checklists).

On the assessment day or days

A thorough psychosocial and developmental assessment to identify the client’s strengths and weaknesses.
A neuropsychological attention based assessment.

Post Assessment

You will receive a 20-minute consultation with a child and adolescent consultant psychiatrist or peaditrician. This session will discuss and endorse the diagnosis, ensuring a clear understanding and agreement.
A 50-minute psychoeducational session is also conducted to discuss the diagnosis in depth. This session provides additional resources and interventions for the diagnosis, helping the young person and their family understand and manage the condition more effectively.
If medication support is deemed necessary, further recommendations and options will be discussed, ensuring a well-informed and collaborative approach to treatment and care.
A comprehensive report is provided after the assessment, detailing the results and offering tailored recommendations for support and accommodations for the client.

How can we help you?

We recognise the individuality of each young person and their unique needs. Our approach to care is centred around the individual, emphasizing respect, meticulous attention, and professional expertise. We customize our services to align perfectly with your specific circumstances and requirements.

Phone

1800 971 511

Email

info@healancentre.com

Operating Hours

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm

Location

1070 Hay Street, West Perth, 6005

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