Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) information
University of Plymouth - Useful information relating to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a medical diagnosis and requires an assessment by a psychiatrist. The best route is for the student to ask their GP to refer them to a psychiatrist who assesses ADHD, although some private psychiatrists may accept a self-referral. Some psychologists assess for ADHD although they cannot prescribe medication.
It is difficult in Plymouth to have an assessment on the NHS. There is an assessment centre in Exeter for those people who fall under Devon NHS but the waiting list can be very long.
It may be the student decides to go privately, however, please note that there may be a charge for a follow-on appointment and any prescribed medication Below are contact details of private psychiatrists who assess for ADHD. The cost starts at around £300 and the student should check this before attending any appointment. For further information, the student can make an appointment to see a Disability Advisor.
Dr Elin Davies
Email: consultations@southwestpsychiatricservices.co.uk. Tel: 0330 124 1970 (9-5)
Venue: Express Diagnostics and Treatment Centre, 6 Research Way, Plymouth Science Park, Derriford, Plymouth PL6 8BU
Clinical Partners
Website https://www.clinical-partners.co.uk/for-adults/adult-adhd-add
Tel: 0203 326 9160
Venue: Devonport Road, Plymouth
Psychiatry UK - The National Online Psychiatric Service
Website https://www.psychiatry-uk.com/
Tel: 033 0124 1980
Useful websites
ADDISS
The National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service.
The website in the UK for ADHD – lots of information for adults, children, parents and professionals.
Box of Ideas
Information, ideas, contact details etc on all the developmental disorders. It is described as, ‘The one-stop shop for 1000s of ideas, guidance and information from early years to employment.’ The website was produced by the Dyscovery Centre, Newport and the Waterloo Foundation
Books
Novotni, M. (2008) What Does Everyone Else Know that I Don't. Florida: Speciality Press
A gem of a book. Focusing on social skills training for adults with ADD/ADHD this book offers solutions for tackling behaviour that is often inattentive, impulsive, and hyperactive. Advice is given on how to handle common social problems such as manners, etiquette, communication, subtext, listening, and interpersonal relationships. The format of the book is designed for ADHD learning styles and includes true stories, practical exercises, and tips.
Wender, P.H. (2001) ADHD Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children, Adolescents, and Adults. Oxford: Oxford University Press
Wender is a psychiatrist and researcher and one of the leading names in the ADHD field. This book has lots of information and practical advice, including on medication.
Barkley, R. (2010) Taking Charge of Adult ADHD. New York: Guilford Press
Barkley is the name in the ADHD world. This book is fantastic – full of factual information and, like the title says, ways of taking charge of the symptoms so that life is not such an uphill struggle.