Diagnosis and management of ADHD: a new way forward?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention or hyperactivity. The condition impacts on multiple aspects of an individual's life, as it can affect motor skills, social relationships, self-esteem and educational success. The diagnosis and management of this condition is of concern to healthcare professionals and is a topic often debated by the media. The most recent National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance on diagnosing and managing ADHD in children, young people and adults has triggered a resurgence of this debate. The NICE guidance is particularly interesting because it states that behavioural therapies, rather than medications, should be the first-line treatment. While this apparent reversal in approach will be welcomed by some, this is an emotive issue and will no doubt also meet with strong opposition. This paper seeks to explore and discuss the existing evidence relating to medication versus behavioural therapies, and difficulties that may arise in implementing the latest NICE guidance.
Brimble
Mandy J
MJ
Cardiff School of Nursing and Midwifery Studies, Cardiff University.
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D001521:Behavior Therapy; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005196:Family Therapy; D006801:Humans; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000627:therapeutic use; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D006113:United Kingdom
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D008774:Methylphenidate