ADHD is relatively common neurodevelopmental condition, affecting approximately 2% of the population. The main symptoms of ADHD are inattention (including attention problems, susceptibility to losing things and forgetfulness, difficulties with following instructions and prioritising, failing to pay close attention to details, and being easily distracted), hyperactivity (including fidgeting, feeling ‘on the go’ and restless, and talking excessively and quickly), and impulsivity (including blurting things out, a tendency for interrupting others, and struggling to turn take). Some people have a predominant inattentive-type of ADHD, whereas others may have a more hyperactive or impulsive presentation.
ADHD assessments:
Until relatively recently, ADHD was considered a childhood condition. Yet, we know that adults also have ADHD; and many people are only first diagnosed in adulthood.
If you are interested in having a private assessment for ADHD, our Consultant Psychiatrist colleagues at The Effra Clinic in London see young people and adults. More information is available here: https://effraclinic.co.uk/
Post-diagnostic support:
The National Psychology Clinic can provide post-diagnostic support to adults (individually, or jointly with partners or family members). Some people find it helpful to talk through what it means to them to have a diagnosis of ADHD and the ways in which this has impacted on their lives. This can also be an opportunity to identify additional coping strategies for managing symptoms or reducing their impact.
We also know that anxiety, mood problems (such as mood instability or depression) and low self-esteem are common experiences for adults with ADHD. People can also find that they struggle to form and maintain friendships and relationships. We tend to offer a formulation-based approach to understanding and addressing symptoms of ADHD and co-occurring conditions. Therapeutic approaches that can be helpful and effective are Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Mindfulness-based Approaches, Schema Therapy, Systemic Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy. Goals for therapy tend to inform decision-making about which approach might be most appropriate.