Animating ADHD

Despite being present in 3-5% of children, ADHD remains misunderstood and there is a great deal of stigma associated with having ADHD.

Children and their families often face challenges when they are first diagnosed with ADHD. One challenge is accessing information and resources about ADHD, particularly those that can explain ADHD to children affected by the condition. The few resources that are currently available are not fit for purpose and are not targeted at children aged 7-11 years (the age group when ADHD is most likely to be diagnosed in the UK).

Let's talk about ADHD

Watch the new resource created as part of this project

Research approach

We worked together with local ADHD parent support groups to develop an animation video for children aged 7-11 years about what it means to have ADHD. This video is based on our research as well as ideas and opinions from people with lived experienced of ADHD.

This project was funded by the ISSF3 Public Engagement Proof-of-Concept Wellcome Trust award.

We conducted a series of focus groups to develop and revise a storyboard for a three-minute animation. Professionals from clinical services were asked for their opinions to ensure that the animation provides information in an accurate and accessible way.

The project culminated with a launch event to celebrate the work of those involved, get feedback on the animation and promote the animation to ADHD support groups across South Wales, clinicians and relevant academics.

Proposed outcome

The animation will be a valuable resource to support children diagnosed with ADHD and in line with NICE UK guideline emphasis on provision of psychoeducation to those diagnosed with ADHD.

This animation will be readily available for families via support groups and clinical services. This will be a starting point for the development of a more comprehensive support package for individuals diagnosed with ADHD and their families/carers.

It is hoped that this process also helped cement collaborations between our child and adolescent psychiatry team, local ADHD support groups and professionals from clinical services.