Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

The NHS ADHD website reminds us that it is a condition that affects people's behaviour. People with ADHD can seem restless, may have trouble concentrating and may act on impulse.

ADHD is not something that can just be diagnosed with a blood test and of course parents should always be advised to contact their GP with concerns but signs and symptoms to look out for include:

• Forgetfulness
• Carelessness
• Risky behaviours
• Unable to sit still
• Trouble getting along with others
• Daydreaming
• Excessive talking
• Disorganisation

Within the community pharmacy there are still things we can do to support parents of a child with ADHD preparing to go back to school such as:

• Signposting to useful evidence based websites such as NHS ADHD and ADHD UK.
• Ensuring there are sufficient supplies of medication used in association with ADHD such as Methylphenidate / Concerta XL® + Ritalin®
  plus Melatonin Circadin® especially in August towards the end of the school summer holidays.

Once signposted parents will be given strategies such as:

• Providing positive attention
• Giving effective instructions
• Praising children
• Establishing rewards
• Consistent consequences to avoid mixed messages