Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) doesn’t just disappear as you grow up, but the symptoms often change as you might be less hyperactive, but still be impulsive (speak out and lose your temper easily). Inattention may still be a problem as you still struggle to concentrate or remain focused.
As you get older you gain more responsibility, which can sometimes be a problem if you are forgetful and disorganised or easily led by your peers.
Moving up to high school can be a very worrying time for young people and their family. This can be for a number of reasons, but the main concerns are usually around what the expectations of the new school are. You can help yourself with this though, but first you need to know what style of learning you are best suited to and how you process information most effectively…
| Auditory Learner | Visual Learner | Kinaesthetic Learner |
|---|---|---|
| Through hearing (i.e. reading and speaking aloud) | Through sight (i.e. take notes, use pictures and diagrams | Through movement or touch (i.e. you walk around while you read or listen to recordings |
Revising
With your work you can chink it down, link it, visualise it with a mind map, write it down on cards, set realistic deadlines and targets, take breaks (use timers), work with someone (body doubling), avoid distractions, use white noise (fan or quiet music), allow for time to relax and refuel, reward yourself and be flexible.
Organisation
To keep organised, use a diary, block out events, use a mobile for reminders/alarms, make lists, use post-it notes, use a pin-board, use lables, use a dictaphone or voice recording, repeat direction and processes, colour code files/note books, etc.
We have put together the presentation below, with things to consider when making this move, in order for the transition to be as smooth as possible. If you have any questions or concerns then please do not hesitate to talk to us about it in the ADHD clinic appointment, or please contact the department and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
Unlike most other paediatric services which stop when you reach 16 years old/leave year 11, the ADHD team will continue to see you if you are on medication for ADHD until you are 19 years old.
If you continue to take medication until you reach the age of 19 years and intend to continue taking it, we will start discussions on arranging your ADHD care from an alternative service when you reach 16 years of age.
Firstly we will write to your GP to tell them we are about to discharge you and ask them to take over your care. We will advise them that if they do not feel able to do this, then they will need to refer you to the local Adult Services. Some GP’s may feel happy to continue your prescriptions if you have been stable on your medication for some time. If this is the case you will not need a referral. If your ADHD is not currently stable, your GP may prefer that Adult Services reassess your care and will refer you to Adult Services.
We would also then advise you to make an appointment to discuss this with your GP to ensure any referral to Adult Services is made by the time you are 18 years old as there is currently a waiting list for this service.
We will then continue to see you until you reach 19 years of age, when we will discharge you to the care of your GP.
If you stop taking medication at any stage we will discharge you back to the care of your GP. If you wish to restart your medication before you reach the age of 19 years old you need to ask your GP to re-refer you to us (unless they are happy to prescribe it for you themselves). Please note: we do not carry out initial assessments for ADHD over the age of 16 years old.
What can I expect if I am referred to Adult Services?
All patients referred to Adult ADHD Services are re-assessed thoroughly. This is because needscan change when you reach adulthood and your ADHD can affect you in different ways as you grow older.
Your GP will be advised on your recommended treatment and asked to provide your prescriptions as they do now. If your GP currently does not prescribe for ADHD, the Adult Service will provide them for you.
You will be given advice on various areas relevant to adults with ADHD. Letters supporting any special requirements with regard to your ADHD may be provided if you require assistance with your employers or housing.
You will then be offered four follow up appointments (frequency as required) following which your GP will be asked to continue your care.
Transition Questionnaires:
Please feel free to complete the age appropriate questionnaire below and bring to your clinic consultation to discuss with your Clinician, should you feel this would be beneficial.