Where do I start?

Getting your child assessed for ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can be a difficult and lengthy process, but the first step is to make an appointment with your GP.  

‍Keep in mind that because many of the features of ADHD are typical for a pre-schooler, it's not possible for your child to receive a diagnosis until they are at least 5 or 6 years of age.

‍Take any notes or documents with you that cover any concerns that you, your child’s teacher or other people in your child’s life have raised.

GPs cannot complete ADHD assessments themselves, but they can refer your child to a specialist such as a psychiatrist, paediatrician, neurologist, psychologist or child and youth nurse practitioner.

What is the diagnosis criteria?

There is no blood test or genetic screening for ADHD, so a diagnosis will be based on a full clinical assessment of your child. Clinicians follow strict criteria, as set out in the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, including:

• A persistent pattern of inattention/and or hyperactivity that interferes with functioning or development over a period of at least six months.
• Several ADHD symptoms were present before the age of twelve.
• ADHD symptoms are present in two or more settings, for example, at home and at school.
• There is clear evidence that that the symptoms interfere with the quality of social, academic or occupational functioning.
• The symptoms are not caused by another disorder such as anxiety or depression.

What causes ADHD?

Research is ongoing as to the causes of ADHD but it is known to be strongly genetic, so if your child has ADHD, it’s likely someone else in the family will have it too.

What's the treatment?

ADHD presents in many different ways, which means each child requires a highly individualised treatment plan. Usually, it is a combination of support and strategies and sometimes medication.

Therapy and counselling may be recommended for your child, and also for your family, so that everyone can learn about and understand the condition.

It will be important to work closely with your child’s school so that they accommodate their specific learning, social and emotional needs and update your child’s Individual Education Plan (if they have one).

If your child is prescribed medication, ask how long they will need to take it for, and what potential side effects there may be. It’s important that any medication is reviewed regularly, and that you report any adverse symptoms to your doctor immediately.

What if my child doesn’t meet the diagnosis criteria?

While your child may not have met the strict criteria to be diagnosed with ADHD, it is possible they still possess ADHD traits that would benefit from added support and interventions. Three Kiwi mums spoke to us about what this looks like, which you can read here.

For more advice on supporting a child with ADHD, or check out the resources and links below:

• ADHD New Zealand ‍
• ADHD in children (Mental Health Foundation)‍
• ADHD – Aroreretini (Kids Health)‍
• ADHD and learning (TKI: Te Kete Ipurangi)‍
• Thriving with ADHD Parenting Framework ‍
• About ADHD - CHADD (The National Resource on ADHD, USA)

Alternatively, reach out to the IHC library which has free resources, on 0800 442 442 or email Librarian@ihc.org.nz