HSE launches ADHD in Adults National Clinical Programme Model of Care

The HSE’s ADHD in Adults National Clinical Programme Model of Care is being launched today by Minister of State for Older People and Mental Health Mary Butler.

While ADHD is well recognised in 5-7 per cent of children, it is not as widely known that it persists in 1.5 per cent of adults.  According to the HSE, the ADHD in Adults National Clinical Programme “addresses the lack of public services for adults with ADHD”.

Dr Amir Niazi, National Clinical Advisor Group Lead for Mental Health in the HSE, commented: “This programme will ensure the provision of skilled assessment and diagnosis together with treatment encompassing ADHD specific medication and psycho-social therapies.”

Dr Niazi explained it provides access for three groups of adults: those diagnosed as children with significant ADHD symptoms persisting into adulthood; parents of children with ADHD, of whom 25 per cent may have ADHD; and adults of all ages in whom ADHD was not recognised in childhood.

The model of care is based on the Sláintecare principle of integrated care across mental health and primary care services, voluntary agencies such as ADHD Ireland and third level education and employment services.

Dr Margo Wrigley, HSE Clinical Lead, ADHD, said: “The programme conceptualises ADHD as an altered ability rather than a disability. Effective management of its core symptoms and negative impacts enables people to unlock the positive aspects of ADHD and lead fulfilling lives.”