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
• Fidgeting or tapping their hands and feet
• Having trouble following instructions
• Risky behaviours
• Unable to sit still
• Trouble getting along with others
• Daydreaming
• Excessive talking
• Disorganisation
• Finding it hard to wait their turn or interrupting others

Lots of children (especially under 5s) may be easily distracted, impulsive and have high energy levels. This does not necessarily mean they have ADHD but could be a sign of somethgin else such as tiredness, anxiety or stress.

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