ADHD: assessment and intervention.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common psychiatric disorders of childhood. Although there is a lot of debate and controversy over the recognition of ADHD, it is generally accepted nowadays as a clinical disorder that may warrant treatment Children with ADHD are pervasively overactive, fidgety and disruptive. They have impaired attention and concentration and are impulsive. These symptoms have serious implications for the child's relationships with parents, siblings and peers. It is important that community practitioners, school nurses, health visitors and other health professionals are able to recognise the condition and be able to make an informed clinical assessment and refer and manage accordingly. The assessment should include a clear history from parents, a school report and an individual interview with the child. An assessment of parental management is essential to avoid the child being wrongly diagnosed with the condition. The successful intervention should be aimed at educating the child and family about the disorder and psychosocial interventions that may help the family and school cope with the child. In some cases introduction of medication may be necessary.