Best Practice

ADHD: Spotting the signs and supporting pupils

How can teachers support students who have or might have ADHD? Jen Catling looks at spotting the signs, recognising their strengths, and what to do if you are worried about a young person

 

Diagnosis rates for ADHD – attention deficit hyperactivity disorder – are on the rise (Robertson, 2022) and many professionals who work with children and young people, including myself, believe this is the tip of the iceberg.

Although ADHD is being recognised more it is generally believed to be under-diagnosed and so it is important to remember that many school children could well be unaware that their difficulties are linked to ADHD.

Part of the issue is that children and young people often mask their difficulties and masking can be done unconsciously as well as consciously.

I was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 34. I went through my whole school and academic career not understanding my difficulties – thinking that I was just “stupid” when it came to some things.

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