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Understanding ADHD

Summary

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that starts in childhood and affects attention, activity levels, and impulse control. It can impact daily life at home, school, and in social situations. Symptoms must begin before the age of 12 and often continue into adulthood.

ADHD is diagnosed based on a detailed history, with input from parents, caregivers, and teachers. Treatment usually includes education about ADHD, behavioral strategies, and, in some cases, medication. Stimulant medications are effective for most children but should be carefully monitored, especially in those with heart conditions.

Diagnosis and When to Seek Help

If your child has difficulty paying attention, is overly active, or acts impulsively in different settings (such as both home and school), it may be worth discussing ADHD with a healthcare professional. Other signs include trouble following instructions, frequent forgetfulness, or difficulty sitting still.

A doctor or specialist will assess your child’s symptoms by gathering information from multiple sources, including parents, teachers, and caregivers. There are no specific lab tests for ADHD—diagnosis is based on behavior patterns and medical history. 

Management

ADHD is best managed with a combination of strategies, including:

  • Psychoeducation: Understanding ADHD and how it affects your child’s daily life.
  • Behavioral therapy: Structured routines, positive reinforcement, and social skills training.
  • Medication: Stimulants (such as methylphenidate) work for about 85% of children. Non-stimulant medications may also be an option, especially for those who need longer-lasting effects or cannot tolerate stimulants.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Ongoing care is essential to ensure your child’s treatment plan is effective. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider help monitor symptoms, medication effectiveness, and possible side effects. If stimulant medication is used, heart health should be monitored, particularly in children with pre-existing conditions.

With the right support, children with ADHD can thrive in school, social settings, and beyond.

History and Exam

Key diagnostic factor

  • presence of risk factors
  • inability to give close attention to details or making ‘careless’ mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
  • difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
  • does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

Other diagnostic factors

  • mild mood symptoms (dysphoria, mood lability, irritability, boredom)
  • anxiety
  • difficulty with peer interactions
  • low self-esteem

Risk factors

  • family history of ADHD
  • male sex
  • low birth weight
  • epilepsy

Diagnostic Investigations

1st investigations to order

  • no formal laboratory or imaging studies

Investigations to consider

  • neuropsychological testing

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    Other Related Conditions

    CHALLENGING BEHAVIOURS

    AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

    LEARNING DIFFICULTIES

    behaviours disorders

    intellectual disabilities

    speech/LANGUAGE DISORDERS

    feeding disorders

    sleep disorders

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      Social and emotional functioning refers to a child’s ability to understand, express, and manage their emotions, as well as to interact effectively with others. These skills are fundamental for building positive relationships, developing empathy, and coping with the everyday challenges of growing up.

      Children who experience difficulties in social and emotional functioning may struggle with recognizing their own feelings or those of others, regulating emotional responses, or responding appropriately in social situations. This can lead to challenges such as anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulty making friends, or misunderstandings with peers and adults.

      In the school environment, social and emotional difficulties can impact a child’s engagement, cooperation, and overall learning experience. Emotional distress may manifest as withdrawal, irritability, or disruptive behaviour, which can further affect academic progress and peer relationships.

      Assessment of social and emotional functioning as part of a neuropsychological evaluation typically includes behavioural observations, standardized rating scales, and information gathered from parents, teachers, and sometimes the child. This comprehensive approach helps identify strengths and areas for support in emotional regulation, social skills, and adaptive behaviours.

      Understanding a child’s social-emotional profile allows for the development of tailored strategies to enhance emotional wellbeing, build resilience, and improve social communication. Early intervention and supportive environments can empower children to navigate their emotions more effectively, fostering confidence and meaningful connections. 

      At Offspring Health, we aim to provide transparent information about the costs involved in neurodevelopmental and educational assessments.

      Neuropsychological assessments typically involve multiple sessions that usually take between 8 and 16 hours in total, depending on the complexity and individual needs. Our hourly rate is $260, so the total cost typically ranges between $2,300 and $4,230.

      Fees generally cover:

      • Initial consultation and history gathering
      • Testing sessions where your child will complete various fun and interactive tasks
      • Liaison with schools or health professionals as needed
      • Comprehensive case analysis and report preparation
      • Feedback sessions with families and, where applicable, educators or other professionals

      Please note that standard neuropsychological assessments are generally not covered by Medicare. However, some assessments and therapy services may be funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) for eligible participants. We recommend discussing funding options with your NDIS planner or support coordinator prior to booking. Private health insurance may offer partial rebates depending on your level of coverage.

      What’s the next step?

      Please phone reception for a discussion about your needs or email psychology@offspringhealth.com