Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Picton Psychology has been providing comprehensive ADHD assessments since 2013. Our team of experienced psychologists have extensive experience in administering ADHD assessments. With our decades of experience, you can be confident that you will receive an accurate, evidence-informed differential diagnosis from Picton Psychology.
What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder. It is commonly diagnosed in childhood and often persists into adulthood. ADHD is considered a chronic disorder and can significantly impact various aspects of life across different age groups. The challenge it presents with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity can affect academic or work performance, making it harder to focus, organise tasks, and sustain attention on specific activities.
ADHD may interfere with communication, patience, and the ability to manage emotions, leading to difficulties in maintaining healthy relationships. Daily functioning, such as time management, organisational skills, and completing tasks, can be more challenging for individuals with ADHD.
ADHD can have substantial psychological impacts. Children might struggle with self-esteem due to academic or social difficulties, whilst adults might face similar professional issues and heightened sensitivity to criticism.
ADHD can also lead to poor self-esteem and social functioning issues in children, when not appropriately treated. Adults with ADHD may also experience poor self-worth, sensitivity towards criticism, and increased self-criticism.
There are three different ways ADHD may occur:
- Predominantly Inattentive Presentation: It is hard for the individual to organise or finish a task, pay attention to details, or follow instructions or conversations.
- Predominately Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation: The individual fidgets and talks a lot, may feel restless and have trouble with impulsivity.
- Combined Presentation: Symptoms of the above two types are present in equal amounts.