Breaking Down ADHD: Interview with Dr Ramya Mohan, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

The 3^rd – 9^th February 2025 is Children’s Mental Health Week 2025. Place2Be created Children’s Mental Health Week to empower, equip and give a voice to all children and young people in the UK. This year they have joined forces with Here4You to explore the importance of self-awareness and expressing emotions. The theme for 2025 is Know Yourself, Grow Yourself.

Children’s Mental Health Week vital in raising awareness for children and the mental health difficulties they can face challenges with and so we caught up with Dr Ramya Mohan, a member of our assessment panel, to discuss the impact and severity of ADHD in children.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is commonly characterised by signs and symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattentiveness or a combination of them all. It can vary anywhere from mild to severe in terms of the severity of symptoms and often significantly impacts a child’s daily life, influencing their behaviour, emotions and learning.

Dr Mohan has a wealth of knowledge built up through over two decades of experience including her time within CAMHS as a consultant in the NHS and private sector. As a highly skilled and senior clinician, she has expertise in the detailed and full diagnostic assessment and treatment of neurodevelopmental conditions including ADHD and ASD as well as complex co-morbidities.

Dr Mohan explains this condition further…

What impact does ADHD have on daily life, especially in children?

ADHD can impact every aspect of daily life; professionally, personally and within an educational setting influencing one’s ability to accomplish daily tasks effectively and efficiently. In particular, children may have difficulties such as:

Difficulty in paying attention and maintaining focus, becoming easily distracted.
They may find it challenging to wait their turn, sit still, or think before they act.
They struggle with emotional regulation.
They may find it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep.
They may find social cues challenging or interrupt conversations.

At what age can ADHD be diagnosed in children?

A child can usually be assessed for ADHD from around six years old onwards, but some kids may show symptoms before then.

How does ADHD in childhood affect development into adolescence and adulthood?

ADHD can range from mild, impacting daily tasks at home or in school, to more severe cases where impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention may lead to a more significant impact on multiple areas of a person’s life including school, work when going into adulthood, and relationships with friends, partners, colleagues and family. It may also significantly impact their overall well-being and could be made more complex when existing with co-morbid conditions like anxiety and depression, further complicating the challenges faced. However, in some cases, as children age, they may find that symptoms become less severe, and they are better able to manage them (for example, better control over impulses and focusing attention). Early diagnosis, targeted therapy and medication, along with supportive environments, are crucial for managing severe ADHD effectively.

What, if any, are the known causes of ADHD?

By definition, it’s something that’s present from birth. It’s multifactorial, with both genetic and neurodevelopmental aspects. Neurodevelopmental difficulties are problems with how our brain develops.

What should someone do if they suspect that their child or a loved one has ADHD?

A diagnostic assessment by a suitably qualified professional should be considered. This evaluation is typically conducted by a Child Psychiatrist or mental health specialist. You will usually be asked to complete a couple of initial screening questionnaires to see if a diagnosis is indicated before proceeding with a full assessment.

What are the most effective treatment options for children with ADHD and can the severity be reduced?

The severity can vary widely, depending on the level of support received and how quickly ADHD is diagnosed and managed. It is possible for the severity to be reduced, which is evidenced from long term studies also showing that the intensity of ADHD can also be reduced. This can be down to a combination of brains maturing and naturally becoming more self-aware and support along with effective management. There are several medications that can help increase concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity in individuals with ADHD. Therapy and psychosocial interventions may also be another method of treatment suggested to help provide tools and skills to manage symptoms.

At The ADHD Clinic, we specialise in supporting people and their loved ones on their ADHD journey. Our team of consultants have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and we are dedicated to guiding you every step of the way providing a reliable and seamless assessment experience.

For more information on how we could help you to start your ADHD journey:

Call 01424 533259 or email office@theadhdclinic.co.uk