Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, meaning the brain develops slightly differently to those without ADHD. People with ADHD may experience differences in their concentration, patience and activity levels.

This video from the National Centre for Mental Health explains what ADHD is and how it might affect young people:

Assessment and diagnosis

People with ADHD are individual and differ from each other, but for a diagnosis they must share differences from people without ADHD in how they feel and behave. If there are signs a child or young person may ADHD, they can be referred for an assessment by a professional e.g. SENCO, social worker.

In Camden, Royal Free CAMHS offer ADHD assessments for children aged 6 to 18.

Advice and support

It can be challenging trying to find the right support for young people with ADHD, particularly if they are still awaiting an assessment. ADHD is different for everyone, but there are services who can support with some of the challenges that young people with ADHD often experience.

  • the NHS Waiting Room provides information about Neurodevelopmental Support in Camden, listing the services who support young people with Autism and ADHD
  • The Hive offer mental health and wellbeing services to young people aged 16-25
  • The Winch provide a range of support services for children, young people and families, including a mentoring service for young people aged 12-18
  • Centre 404 offer a wide range of support for disabled young people and their families

Support for parents and carers