What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopment disorder defined by impairing levels of inattention, disorganisation, and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. Inattention manifests behaviourally in ADHD as wandering off task, failing to follow through on instructions or finishing work or chores, having difficulty sustaining focus, and being disorganised. Hyperactivity refers to excessive motor activity (such as a child running about) when it is not appropriate, or excessive fidgeting, or talkativeness. In adults, hyperactivity may manifest as extreme restlessness or wearing others out with their activity. Impulsivity refers to hasty actions that occur in the moment without planning, which may have potential for harm to the individual (e.g., darting into the street without looking). Impulsivity may reflect a desire for immediate rewards or an inability to delay gratification. Impulsive behaviours may manifest as social intrusiveness (e.g., interrupting others excessively) and/or as making important decisions without consideration of long-term consequences (e.g., taking a job without adequate information).
Management of ADHD
Treatment for ADHD typically involves a combination of:
- Assessment to rule out other differential diagnoses
- Medication
- Psycho-education
- Psychological counselling/therapy
- Skills training
- Research suggests a combination of these is most effective to increase the success of the intervention.
Therapy for ADHD
The most widely researched type of therapy for ADHD is CBT. Studies and meta-analyses have shown that both group and individual CBT interventions have been effective in reducing both core ADHD symptoms and associated distress.
Benefit of Group Therapy
People with ADHD often report feeling isolated from others. Group therapy can expose people with ADHD to a wider group struggling with dealing with the same or similar issues. This common understanding of a difficult experience nurtures trust and makes any judgment a lot less likely. Sharing feelings with the group can also help relieve the pain or stress you may be feeling as well as provide the opportunity for cross-sharing of different skills.
Group Program
- Initial 50 minute Screening Session to determine eligibility.
- 10 consecutive weekly group sessions (in person at East Melbourne).
- Medicare subsidy applicable, separate to Individual Better Access Initiative.
- Group Availability based on Victorian School terms date.
