Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that affects the brain. People who have this condition have difficulty focusing on and completing tasks, can be loud, highly distractible and impulsive, be frequently forgetful, and struggle to contain their excessive energy levels. They perform poorly in their studies or occupation, have difficulty in relationships, and may become involved in risky activities often to their detriment. Those who go through life undiagnosed and/or untreated can have extremely poor outcomes. Therefore, it is important for those with ADHD to be identified early and receive treatment. Whilst all people with ADHD will benefit from psychological therapy, those with more severe forms of ADHD may benefit from certain medications to improve their functioning, sometimes with dramatic results.  

Signs of ADHD

  1. Being Inattentive as seen by having a short attention span, frequently making careless mistakes, appearing to be very forgetful, not appearing to listen to or follow through on instructions, frequently avoiding tedious or time consuming tasks, having difficulty organizing tasks, and not completing tasks on time.

  2. Being Hyperactive and Impulsive as seen by struggling to sit still, be constantly fidgeting, be physically active as though being driven by a motor, talking excessively, frequently interrupting others, being unable to wait for their turn, having a poor sense of danger, and acting without thinking.

  3. As ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, the above signs should always be present in all settings and should have been there throughout the person’s life.

  4. It is important to note that mood, anxiety, psychotic, substance use, and trauma and stress related disorders can also cause similar symptoms as can other neurodevelopmental disorders and some other medical conditions.  

Assessment and Management of ADHD

Young Person under the age of 18

Educational providers and families who are concerned about the possibility of ADHD should request a GP assessment of the young person, who can then refer them to a Paediatrician or Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist for diagnostic clarity. Assessment by the ADHD specialist will typically require an initial consult to gather information and consider the possibility of ADHD. This will be followed by other consultations and psychometric tests to gather collateral information from family and educational providers. Parenting, psychotherapeutic and educational recommendations may result from the assessment process and these should form the mainstay of treatment. If this is insufficient and/or if the condition is severe, stimulant or non-stimulant ADHD medications can be considered as an adjunct to the above.

 Adult

Those with Adult ADHD typically fall into two categories - those who have been formally diagnosed and treated as a child and continue to have disabling symptoms as an adult, and those who have never been diagnosed previously. Those who are concerned they may have Adult ADHD should see their GP for an assessment and consideration of referral to a Psychiatrist who assesses and manages those with Adult ADHD. Assessment by the ADHD specialist will require an initial consult to gather information and consider the possibility of Adult ADHD. It will be useful to bring family (ideally parents) to the consult to gather developmental information. This will be followed by other consultations and psychometric tests to gather and consider further collateral information such as previous diagnostic reports and school reports. Psychological therapy will be an essential component of treatment but if insufficient, then stimulant or non-stimulant ADHD medications can be considered as an adjunct. It is important to note that due to strict PBS rules on the prescription of stimulant medications, there can be limitations on medication options for those who were not diagnosed as children.

How to see Dr Vijay Raj?

If you are concerned that either you or a loved one is troubled by a mental illness, please request a GP assessment. The GP can then refer to Dr Raj for further support as needed. The referral is then reviewed, and if appropriate, an appointment can be organised for the initial consult. Consults for Autism and ADHD assessments will require a few appointments for the assessments to be completed. Depending on the complexity, this may also be the case for other conditions as well. Waiting times and fees can be clarified with the practice where the consult is to occur.