Glossary
What is ADHD?
Also called: ADHD, ADD, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, inattentive ADHD
Definition
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, activity levels and impulse control, in ways that are more marked than expected for a child's age and cause real difficulty at home or school.
What it means
ADHD is described in three presentations: mainly inattentive, mainly hyperactive and impulsive, and combined. “ADD” is an older name that people still use for the inattentive type. Signs need to have been present from childhood and show up in more than one setting, such as home and school.
In the UK, NICE guidance says ADHD should be diagnosed by a specialist, usually a child psychiatrist or paediatrician, after a full assessment. Schools and counsellors can notice signs and help you ask for a referral, but they cannot diagnose. Autism and ADHD often occur together.
Many children with ADHD also find emotions harder to manage. Feelings arrive fast and strongly, and frustration or rejection can hit hard.
What it can look like for your child
A child with hyperactive ADHD may be unable to stay in their seat, talk over people or act before thinking. A child with inattentive ADHD may sit quietly and drift off, lose their PE kit for the third time this week and get told off for “not trying”. Both may hear “if you’d just concentrate” every day, and start to believe they are lazy or bad.
How counselling can help
Counselling does not treat ADHD itself. It can help with the things around it: low self-esteem, anger, anxiety and the shame children carry from constant correction. Sessions with us allow movement and short bursts of activity. We work on noticing feelings early and finding ways to calm down that your child actually wants to use, and we share what works with you and, if you agree, with school.