Anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, sleep, school stress and urgent support
Wellbeing should be considered alongside learning, attendance and behaviour.
ADHD and Mental Health
The NHS states people with ADHD may be more likely to experience mental health difficulties such as anxiety or depression. School stress, bullying, repeated failure experiences and unmet needs can also affect wellbeing.
Watch for
- Anxiety
- Low mood
- Low self-esteem
- Social withdrawal
- Sleep difficulties
- School avoidance
School support
- Trusted adult
- Pastoral plan
- Safe regulation space
- Reduced unnecessary pressure
- Anti-bullying action
Health support
- GP
- School nurse where available
- Local children and young people's mental health service
- ADHD specialist team
If a child is in immediate danger or there is an immediate risk to life, call 999. If there are suicidal thoughts, self-harm concerns or serious deterioration, seek urgent NHS/health support and tell the relevant safeguarding professional.
Support across the UK
Education systems differ across the four nations. Use the route for where the child is educated.
England
SEN Support and EHCPs operate under the Children and Families Act 2014 and SEND Code of Practice.
Wales
Wales uses the Additional Learning Needs system and Individual Development Plans (IDPs).
Scotland
Scotland uses Additional Support for Learning and may use plans including Co-ordinated Support Plans where legal criteria are met.
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland uses its SEN framework, Education Authority support and Statements of Special Educational Needs.
Right First Time UK — Information Notice
Right First Time UK provides general information, awareness resources and signposting. We are not a school, local authority, NHS diagnostic service, tribunal, law firm or regulated advice service.
Education law and terminology differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Check the official source for the country where the child is educated.