If you’re seeking an ADHD assessment or treatment on the Gold Coast, you probably have questions about what ADHD is and how it can be managed. This FAQ aims to provide clear, practical answers about ADHD and the psychological approaches I use as a Psychologist working in ADHD assessment and treatment.
Please note, this information focuses on non-medication strategies; for medication advice, consult your GP or psychiatrist.
What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It’s marked by ongoing patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that impact daily functioning and overall development.
There are 3 subtypes of ADHD:
- ADHD Primarily Inattentive
- ADHD Primarily Hyperactive
- ADHD Combined
What are the main symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD symptoms typically fall into two categories:
- Inattention: This includes difficulty sustaining focus, being easily distracted, forgetfulness, trouble organising tasks, and avoiding activities that require prolonged mental effort.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Common signs include restlessness, difficulty staying seated, excessive talking, interrupting others, and impatience.
So doesn’t everyone have a bit of ADHD?
I can see how people may think this, we can all be forgetful or a bit hyper at times, right? But ADHD goes further than this, as does the diagnosis for many mental (and physical) health conditions. Diagnostically speaking we have to see symptoms persisting across a period of time but more importantly, the symptoms must cause distress or dysfunction in the individuals life. For a person to have ADHD their symptoms must be causing problems for them in several domains in their life and not just a fleeting moment of forgetfulness due to other issues.
Saying that everyone has a bit of ADHD is like saying everyone has a little bit of diabetes because we have blood sugar fluctuations throughout the day.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
A thorough ADHD assessment involves a detailed evaluation by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist experienced in ADHD assessement. This process includes clinical interviews, behavioural observations, and standardised tests to accurately identify ADHD and any co-existing conditions. There are no physical tests for the assessment for ADHD.
What role does a Psychologist play in ADHD treatment?
Psychologists are central to ADHD management through:
- Conducting comprehensive assessments to confirm diagnosis and understand individual needs.
- Delivering evidence-based psychological treatments, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to develop coping strategies, improve organisation, and manage emotions effectively.
- Providing psychoeducation to individuals and their families to foster understanding and support.
- Supporting clients to build skills that enhance focus, reduce impulsivity, and improve daily functioning.
What psychological treatments are effective for ADHD?
Several psychological approaches have strong evidence supporting their use in ADHD treatment:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps reshape unhelpful thinking patterns and build practical skills for managing symptoms.
- Behavioural Therapy: Uses positive reinforcement and structured routines to encourage desired behaviours.
- Skills Training: Focuses on time management, organisation, social skills, and problem-solving to improve everyday functioning.
Can lifestyle changes support ADHD management?
Absolutely. Establishing healthy routines is vital in managing ADHD symptoms. This includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, consistent sleep patterns, mindfulness practices, and maintaining structured schedules. This stands for many mental health conditions.
How can I improve focus and organisation with ADHD?
Simple strategies that make a big difference include breaking tasks into smaller steps, using timers and reminders, organising your workspace, prioritising tasks realistically, and employing planners or checklists to stay on track. Your Psychologist, after assessment, can help provide tools that will work specifically for you.
Is adult ADHD different from childhood ADHD?
While the core symptoms are similar, adults often face challenges with time management, sustained organisation, emotional regulation, and consistent work performance. Understanding these differences is key to tailored ADHD treatment.
Research suggests that a person diagnosed later in life doesn’t develop ADHD, but rather shows more symptoms or has more insight. Reasons for later diagnosis are varied – being female, family environment (both positive and negative), stress, positive compensatory behaviours are some reasons.
What challenges do people with ADHD commonly face?
Executive functioning difficulties (like planning and time management), emotional regulation issues, strained relationships, low self-esteem, and academic or work struggles are frequent challenges.
How can family members best support someone with ADHD?
Support begins with education—learning about ADHD, creating structured environments, practising clear communication, showing patience, and considering family therapy or support groups when needed.
Can ADHD be treated without medication?
Yes, to some degree. Many find that psychological treatments combined with lifestyle adjustments effectively manage symptoms. Often, the most successful approach blends different strategies tailored to the individual’s unique needs. The standard treatment for ADHD does include medication as a first option.