ADHD Awareness Month: Supporting those with ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodivergent disorder. Despite the misconception that ADHD only affects children, ADHD continues into adulthood. 

ADHD Awareness Month aims to challenge common misconceptions around ADHD, advocating for more awareness, understanding, and support for those living with the condition. 

Symptoms of ADHD 

For most people, a diagnosis of ADHD comes in childhood.  

As with most psychological disorders, ADHD presents itself in different ways. However, the main symptoms of ADHD are: 

  • Inattention 
  • Impulsivity 
  • Hyperactivity 

Whilst the symptoms are the same across most people who have ADHD, the way that they can present is different. For example, hyperactivity can be external or internal, presenting as outbursts or energy or quietness as the mind is busy daydreaming. 

These symptoms can often be misunderstood to be negative behavioural choices, such as laziness. However, ADHD is out of people’s control, and it is their symptoms that can cause their behaviour. 

ADHD can also have an impact on how people experience emotions. This includes: 

  • Feeling intense, short-lived, and fast-building emotions 
  • Difficulty deciphering and understanding emotions 
  • Extreme levels of empathy or a lack of 
  • Experiencing multiple emotions at a time 

These symptoms can provide difficulties for those with ADHD with work, education, and socialization. With the right support and accommodations, ADHD can have a lesser impact on their lives. 

Supporting someone with ADHD 

Support for people with ADHD can come in many forms. For children and young people, it is common for them to have educational support under the umbrella of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). 

This can come through accommodations at school, support from dedicated members of staff, counselling, and more. Having this support can young people access the education that they deserve.  

Outside of school and into adult life, managing ADHD can be difficult, which is why having the right support is key. 

Our team takes a person-centered approach to care, supporting complex mental health and behavioural challenges. We are on hand to help support and develop a care plan that revolves around each individual’s needs and symptoms. 

If you would like to find out more about our services, please contact our team today. 

Posted in Complex behaviour.