Autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental issues

Neurodevelopmental disorders start in a child’s developmental period, often before the child begins school. The prominent aspects include impairment of personal, social, academic, or occupational function. There is a wide range of possible impairment and various disorders within the neurodevelopmental category often co-occur. 

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) 

Autism in a neurodevelopmental disorder. Abnormalities are present in communication and social interaction, and there are often repetitive activities and restrictive interests. It’s important to understand that autism is a spectrum. This means everybody with autism is different. Some people need little or no support. Others may need help from a parent or carer every day. Usually, development is abnormal from very early and manifests before 5 year old.

Autism is one of the most commonly seen neurodevelopmental disorders. The exact cause of autism is not fully understood however, professionals agree that strong genetic and environmental factors affect how the brain develops. Autism is assessed and diagnosed using the ADOS and ADI-R or 3Di, which is usually completed by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist with specialist training. The most effective treatments available today are applied behavioural analysis (ABA), occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and pharmacological therapy.

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which reduced attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity impair functioning. The degree of these three core ADHD symptoms varies between individuals and not everyone with ADHD has all the three symptoms. ADHD symptoms are heterogeneous between individuals. Some people may be predominantly hyperactive and impulsive, whilst others may be predominantly inattentive.

For about two-thirds, the primary problems of inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity persist into late adolescents and for some these continue into adulthood. ADHD assessment is comprehensive and is recommended to be completed by a psychiatrist or a consultant clinical psychologist. Medication is often recommended and closely managed by a psychiatrist. Treatment options will depend also on age. Treatment may also involve elements of or a full course of CBT or other psychological and psychoeducational interventions.