New support group for ADHD sufferers

Jan 3 2009 by Joanne Douglas, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

“This is now being provided by Kirklees and Wakefield primary care trusts. Services for adults with ADHD are few and far between and this will be one of few provided across the country.

“It is essential that adults with ADHD get help to live life to the full. Previously adults with ADHD have had to travel as far as London to get the help they needed.”

Access to the service will be through referral from a GP or specialist paediatric and psychiatric services.

Specialists teams will consist of a consultant psychiatrist, a doctor, a psychologist and two registered mental health nurses.

It is not known how many people in Kirklees have the condition, but it is hoped the new service will offer a lifeline for many.

Figures show that one in four people will experience some form on mental health problem in the course of a year.

There are two groups of ADHD: inattentiveness and a combination of hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

Common symptoms include a short attention span, restlessness, being easily distracted and constant fidgeting.

ADHD is the most common behavioural disorder in the UK.

It is estimated that the condition affects between 3% and 9% of school-aged children and young people.

There is no cure for ADHD, but it can be managed using medication.