NI Minister pledges to act on attention disorder
The needs of children suffering from Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and their families must be addressed, Northern Ireland Health Minister Bairbre de Brun acknowledged today.
Noting up to 5% of children suffer from the syndrome, Ms de Brun told a conference on ADHD in south Belfast it was one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders.
‘‘The symptoms of the condition are distressing and have a significant impact on a child’s social and emotional development,’’ she said.
‘‘Affected children are often exposed to years of negative feedback about their behaviour and suffer educational and social disadvantage.
‘‘ADHD presents a challenge to all of us but particularly for the range of professionals who will be involved and will be working for the child including psychiatrists, psychologists, teachers, GPs and social workers.
‘‘It is imperative that these children and their families are not ignored.’’
ADHD, also known as hyperkinesis, affects 3% to 5% of children and often continues into adolescence and adulthood.
Symptoms include a short attention span and a tendency to act impulsively. Sufferers also tend to be hyperactive, being fidgety and disruptive.
An ADHD Family Support Group was formed in 1997, providing information, help and support to sufferers and their relatives.
As well as the Sinn Fein Health Minister, several international speakers addressed today’s conference at the King’s Hall.
