The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) is launching a new toll-free attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) helpline.
ADHD is a serious psychiatric illness that affects almost 10% of children and 5% of adults worldwide and according to the most recent data, up to 10% of South Africans have it.
It could be present from birth or early childhood and usually persists throughout a person’s lifetime, but is often not recognised or diagnosed.
If you or a loved one find it difficult to focus on something without being distracted, have difficulty controlling what you do or say, are less able to control your restlessness when other people seem to be able to, and are more impulsive then others, it may be ADHD.
With health care professionals, the media, and society calling it so many things, overactive, inattentive, attention deficit, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, hyperkinetic disorder, hyperactivity, getting a firm understanding on what ADHD is and how to live with it, can be a challenge in itself.
Cassey Chambers, operations director of Sadag, says misinformation about ADHD frequently blames those in need of treatment which may discourage people from seeking appropriate care.
She says that parents may avoid professional help because they fear being labelled as poor parents, or being accused of seeking to medicate overly playful, non-compliant or mildly disruptive children.
Receiving an accurate and appropriate diagnosis can bring a sense of relief and correct treatment helps adults and children suffering with and affected by ADHD to deal with the issues more effectively.
“This is why this new Sadag ADHD Helpline is so critical,” says Cassey.
The toll-free line 0800 55 44 33 will be open seven days a week from 8am to 8pm for education, advice, referral and information on ADHD.
