Epilepsy Clinic

'Early diagnosis essential in ADHD'

Eighty-three per cent of parents in Ireland with children diagnosed with ADHD say they are either often or always stressed about their child's condition, according to a new survey.

Seventy-nine per cent reported that ADHD symptoms impact on family functioning.

A further 69% of parents surveyed have difficulty getting their child ready in the morning and 58% reported difficulty with their child getting to sleep at hight.

The survey findings were revealed today at the launch of Ireland's first ADHD Awareness Week, a joint venture between ADHD Action and the Irish National Council of ADHD Support Groups.

ADHD is a neurobiological condition affecting 3% to 7% of schoolchildren, roughly two in every classroom.

The core symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness which are not in keeping with those of the same age group and development level.

For example, a child with ADHD is easily distracted, finds it difficult to complete tasks and has difficulty returning to the task of distracted.

He or she may also act impulsively, move and speak rapidly and excessively and may often respond or act inappropriately without thinking.

Prof Michael Fitzgerald, head of the Department of Child Psychiatry at TCD and Chairman of ADHD Action said ADHD can have a huge impact not only on the person living with the condition but also on the entire family unit.

"Early diagnosis and access to treatment is essential for these children so that the symptoms of the disorder can be treated as quickly as possible."

The survey found that 54% of parents were able to achieve a diagnosis for their child locally, the remainder had to seek diagnosis outside their area or they were referred to a central hospital.