About AD/HD

This is by no means a new condition. A German scientist, Heinrick Hoffmen described the condition in the 1880s. Sir George Still wrote a paper in 1902 about difficult children resistant to normal discipline (what we now know as the condition AD/HD), he wrote,

 “There is the likelihood, nay almost the certainty, that
children with the more profound and permanent
disorders of moral control will, if not protected from
themselves, sooner or later bring public disgrace
upon themselves and the families to which they belong,
and possibly to be punished as criminals in spite of the
evidence that their acts are the outcome of a mental state
just as marked as the more generally recognised imbecility
or insanity” GF Still 1902

The disorder is most prevalent in children and is generally thought of as a childhood disorder.  Research suggests ADHD affects 10% of school-aged children. 

Recent studies, however, show that AD/HD can and does continue throughout the adult years. Current estimates suggest that approximately 50-65% of children with AD/HD or ADD will have symptoms of the disorder as adolescents and adults (although other research suggests 70-80% is a more realistic figure). 

ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls. Girls with ADHD often present differently than boys. More commonly girls will exhibit symptoms of inattention and will internalise behaviours. Girls with ADHD often go unnoticed and therefore do not receive the correct support to manage their diagnosis. 

 There is no cure or “quick fix” when treating AD/HD. Widely publicised “cures” such as special diets have, for the most part, proven ineffective. Effective treatment of AD/HD generally requires three basic components:

1. Education about the disorder – Understanding AD/HD is vital. Read books; talk to professionals; attend seminars; join a support group; learn as much as you can.

2. Training in the use of behaviour management – Structure is the most important factor in treating AD/HD. It may be necessary to reorganise your routine and lifestyle to accommodate this.

3. Medication when indicated – Can dramatically improve attention span and is effective in about 80% of cases, when the dosage is adjusted correctly.

Yes, ADHD often presents alongside other comorbid conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, Anxiety, Sleep disorders, Conduct or Oppositional Disorders, and other learning disorders. 

Yes, ADHD can be diagnosed as an adult. Many of our adults have obtained a diagnosis of ADHD in their later lives. Contact the centre for guidance on what to do next.

Contact Us via telephone or email for help and support