13 year old DS was referred to CAMHS months ago and after the first few appointments, I was informed he would go on the waiting list for ADHD assessment. The reality is this is likely to take years to come about.
For background…
DS went through primary school always attaining on track or exceeding and no significant behavioural issues. He was always full of energy, and struggled to focus at times.
Out of school I would have to keep him very physically active with sport every day. I have always thought he showed traits of ADHD and possible ASD but as school didn’t pick up on anything, I never went to the GP about it.
When DS started in Y7, executive function problems started. I became like his personal assistant and he was constantly forgetting and losing things.
In Y8 once puberty really started to hit, he started to get in trouble at school. Mostly low level disruption due to not focusing in class, acting on impulse.
Y9 has been horrendous! He’s had a change in friendship groups and has been caught vaping, truanting in school and his academic achievement is suffering badly.
I suspect there was some substance misuse going on in school and 2 of his friends were permanently excluded.
I could go on with the many other issues and behaviours at home…
We moved him to another school just before Easter as he wanted a fresh start.
I am desperate to get an assessment and can afford to pay privately but am very confused about further costs if medication is recommended.
Has anyone had experience of this?
Sorry for the long post, I am new to this!