Abstract

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioural disorder with symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.1 It is estimated that the prevalence of ADHD worldwide is 5.29% in children and adolescents, and it is more common in males.2 ADHD is known as Hyperkinetic Disorder by the World Health Organization (WHO), and over a person’s lifetime, the symptoms and impact of the condition may vary considerably.2 Guidelines state symptoms must meet either International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria; cause moderate to severe functional impairment; and occur in more than one setting.1–4 Assessment for ADHD includes a thorough clinical examination, and a full developmental and psychosocial history, alongside information gathering from the family and school.1 ADHD must be diagnosed by a paediatrician, psychiatrist, or ADHD specialist. Early diagnosis and intervention improves educational outcomes for children and is important for their social …

Highlights

  • Evidence indicates treatment begins within 4 weeks of being seen in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for about 14% of children and young people at present.[6]

  • The results showed that the majority of children waited more than 6 months to be seen by CAMHS following primary care referral

  • A number of international recommendations to primary care and CAMHS arose from the multicentre study that would improve service provision to children and young people with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

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Summary

Introduction

Author Keywords: Attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity, ADHD, Child health, Mental health, general practice, primary health care The Care Quality Commission has identified long waiting times between referral and diagnosis, with waits for treatment of up to 18 months.[5] A report by Young Minds in 2018 found the majority of children and young people were waiting 5 months to a year for an initial assessment, and over 50% of children requiring treatment had to wait at least 6 months before treatment was initiated.[6] Evidence indicates treatment begins within 4 weeks of being seen in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for about 14% of children and young people at present.[6] Internationally, experts worldwide have released a consensus statement sharing their concerns: that despite effective treatment being available for children and young people, the majority of these individuals do not receive adequate and timely treatment.[7]

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Conclusion

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