ADHD

Known Factors

The exact cause of ADHD remains undetermined, but several factors are associated with its development:

• Genetic Influences: ADHD tends to run in families, suggesting a hereditary component.

• Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, maternal substance use during pregnancy, and low birth weight have been linked to an increased risk of developing ADHD.

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Assessment Process

Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation:

1. Initial Consultation: A healthcare professional gathers detailed information about the individual's medical history, behavioural patterns, and symptoms.

2. Behavioural Assessments: Standardised psychometric questionnaires and rating scales are used to assess the frequency and severity of symptoms.

3. Collateral Information: Input from family members, teachers, or colleagues provides additional context to the individual's behaviour across different settings.

4. Comorbidity: It's essential to differentiate ADHD from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities. It is common for ADHD to be present with other disorders such as dyslexia, autism and more.

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Interventions

Effective management of ADHD often involves a combination of approaches:

• Medication: Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate or amphetamines, are commonly prescribed to help regulate attention and behaviour.

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can assist individuals in developing coping strategies, organisational skills, and problem-solving techniques. Psychodynamic and person-centred therapies have also shown to reduce distress and promote symptom reduction.

• Educational Support: Tailored educational interventions, including individualised education plans (IEPs) and classroom accommodations, support academic success.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Regular physical activity, structured routines, and a balanced diet can contribute to symptom management.

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Prevalence Rates as of 2025

ADHD affects individuals worldwide, with varying prevalence rates:

• Global Prevalence: Approximately 3.1% of adults globally are diagnosed with ADHD.

• ​Ireland & United Kingdom: Recent studies indicate that adults with ADHD in Ireland and the UK have a reduced life expectancy compared to those without the condition, underscoring the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention.

• ADHD affects approximately 3% to 5% of young people in Ireland, equating to about 1 in 20 to 1 in 30 children and adolescents.

• In 2024, the Health Service Executive (HSE) reported that 19,926 individuals were prescribed ADHD medication between January and August, including 7,752 children. This reflects a significant increase from previous years, indicating a growing recognition and diagnosis of ADHD among the paediatric population.

• Boys are 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls.

• While these figures provide a general overview, the actual prevalence may vary due to factors such as underdiagnosis, differences in diagnostic criteria, and varying levels of awareness among parents and educators.

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At BetterCare™ we specialise in providing assessments and interventions for those challenged by ADHD. Our expert team are available for diagnosing and intervening ADHD at any age over 7+, for more specific service information please choose from the following list:

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For Adults please click here

For Children & Adolescents please click here 

For Children 7+ years old (in person) please click here​​​