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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects around 7% of children and 2.5% of adults . ADHD causes difficulties holding and sustaining attention over periods of time. People with ADHD also experience hyperactivity and high levels of impulsiveness and arousal. This can make it difficult to plan, coordinate and remain engaged in tasks. ADHD is linked to problems at work, school and home, and to higher rates of mental illnesse

The New South Wales government this week announced reforms that will allow some GPs to treat and potentially diagnose attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This aims to make ADHD care more accessible and less expensive and follows changes in Western Australia and Queensland, which have increased GPs’ role in diagnosing and prescribing for ADHD. Previously, only specialists (usually paediatricians and psychiatrists) could diagnose ADHD and prescribe the most com

When parents are concerned about their child’s development, they often seek an assessment to address concerns and identify any conditions, such as autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or learning disorders. Common worries include difficulties making friends, focusing on tasks, or meeting educational goals. It might seem counter-intuitive but assessments are starting to focus on a child’s strengths during this process. This can create powerful opportuni

Neurodevelopmental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism affect about one in ten children . These conditions impact development, behaviour and wellbeing. But children with these conditions and their caregivers often can’t get the support they need. Families report difficulties accessing health-care providers and experience long wait lists to receive care. Digital tools, such as apps and websites, are often viewed as a solution to t

Neurodevelopmental conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism affect about one in ten children . These conditions impact learning, behaviour and development. Executive function delays are core to challenges people with neurodevelopmental conditions experience. This includes skills such as paying attention, switching attention, controlling impulses, planning, organising and problem-solving. These skills are important for learning and long-t

Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects 2.5–5% of people . Less than half of people with ADHD have been diagnosed and treated – though more and more people are presenting for help. Like other neurodevelopmental conditions, there are long delays to diagnosis. The current pathways to diagnosis and care can involve multiple assessments from different professionals who are in short supply, making the process confusing, e

Neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), affect one in ten people . While the primary focus is often on these diagnoses , worrying research shows people with neurodevelopmental conditions are at a much higher risk of experiencing serious mental health concerns. They may also find it particularly challenging to access mental health support. For instance, when young autistic people seek help from youth mental health o

Getting an autism, ADHD or other neurodevelopmental assessment can be difficult, but there are ways you can get the most out of the process.

A new study suggests activation of a mother’s immune system during pregnancy may affect fetal brain development.