ADHD Medical Glossary
Comprehensive medical terminology for ADHD and child mental health in Australia. Created by qualified child psychiatrists for parents, carers, teachers, and healthcare providers.
52 TermsAustralian ContextEvidence-Based
Diagnosis & Classification(8)
ADD
Attention Deficit Disorder- Attention Deficit Disorder. An outdated term previously used for ADHD predominantly inattentive presentation. Now classified as ADHD-PI (Predominantly Inattentive Type).
ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity DisorderADD- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. Affects 5-7% of Australian children.
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ADHD-C
Combined Type ADHDCombined Presentation- ADHD Combined Presentation. The most common subtype where both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present.
ADHD-HI
Hyperactive-Impulsive Type- ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation. Characterized primarily by hyperactive and impulsive symptoms with fewer inattention symptoms. More common in younger children.
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ADHD-PI
Inattentive TypeADD- ADHD Predominantly Inattentive Presentation. Characterized primarily by inattention symptoms with fewer hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. Often diagnosed later than other types, especially in girls.
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Comorbidity
Co-occurring conditions- The presence of one or more additional conditions occurring alongside ADHD. Common comorbidities include anxiety disorders (50%), learning disorders (30-50%), oppositional defiant disorder (40%), and autism spectrum disorder (20-30%).
DSM-5
DSM-V- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition. The standard classification system used by mental health professionals in Australia and worldwide to diagnose ADHD and other mental health conditions.
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ICD-10
- International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision. An alternative diagnostic classification system sometimes used in Australian medical settings. Uses code F90.0 for ADHD.
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Symptoms & Presentations(6)
Emotional Dysregulation
Emotional Lability- Difficulty managing emotional responses, including intense mood swings, low frustration tolerance, and quick temper. Common in ADHD but not part of the official diagnostic criteria.
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Executive Function
Executive FunctioningEF- Higher-order cognitive processes including working memory, cognitive flexibility, planning, organization, time management, and impulse control. Often impaired in individuals with ADHD, affecting daily functioning and academic performance.
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Hyperactivity
- Excessive fidgeting or squirming, inability to stay seated when expected, running or climbing excessively in inappropriate situations, inability to play quietly, being constantly "on the go," and talking excessively.
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Impulsivity
- Acting without thinking, interrupting others, blurting out answers before questions are completed, difficulty waiting for one's turn, and intruding on others' conversations or activities.
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Inattention
- Difficulty sustaining attention, frequent careless mistakes, appearing not to listen, difficulty following through on instructions, difficulty organizing tasks, avoiding sustained mental effort, losing things, being easily distracted, and forgetfulness in daily activities.
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Working Memory
- The ability to hold and manipulate information in mind for short periods. Often impaired in ADHD, affecting the ability to follow multi-step instructions and complete complex tasks.
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Medications(8)
Atomoxetine
Strattera- A non-stimulant medication for ADHD. Selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Takes 2-4 weeks for full effect. Can be prescribed by GPs. Schedule 4 medication.
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Dexamphetamine
DexedrineDextroamphetamine- A short-acting stimulant medication (3-4 hours duration) for ADHD. Increases release of dopamine and norepinephrine. Often used when flexible dosing is needed or extended-release formulations are not suitable.
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Guanfacine
Intuniv- A non-stimulant medication for ADHD. Alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist. Often used as adjunct therapy or when stimulants are not suitable. Not PBS listed in Australia.
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Lisdexamfetamine
Vyvanse- A long-acting stimulant medication (10-12 hours) for ADHD. A prodrug that converts to dexamphetamine in the body. Listed on PBS with authority prescription. Brand name Vyvanse.
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Medication Holiday
Drug Holiday- Planned breaks from ADHD medication, often during school holidays. May help assess ongoing need for medication and reduce tolerance. Should only be done under medical supervision.
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Methylphenidate
RitalinConcertaRitalin LA- A central nervous system stimulant medication used to treat ADHD. Available as short-acting (Ritalin) and long-acting (Concerta, Ritalin LA) formulations. Works by blocking reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine.
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Stimulant Medication
Psychostimulants- First-line medication for ADHD that increases dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. Includes methylphenidate and amphetamines. Effective in 70-80% of children with ADHD. Schedule 8 controlled substances in Australia.
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Titration
- The process of gradually adjusting medication dosage to find the optimal balance between therapeutic benefits and side effects. Typically involves starting at a low dose and slowly increasing.
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Treatments & Interventions(4)
Behavioral Interventions
Behavior ModificationBehaviour Therapy- Strategies to modify behaviors through reinforcement, consequences, and environmental changes. Include reward systems, clear routines, and consistent consequences. Essential component of ADHD treatment.
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CBT
Cognitive Behavioral TherapyCognitive Behaviour Therapy- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. An evidence-based psychotherapy approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Effective for ADHD when combined with other treatments.
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Multimodal Treatment
Combined Treatment- Combining multiple treatment approaches for ADHD, typically medication plus behavioral interventions. The most effective approach for most children, as shown by the landmark MTA study.
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Parent Training
Parent Management TrainingBehavioral Parent Training- Evidence-based programs that teach parents behavioral management strategies for children with ADHD. Include positive reinforcement, clear communication, consistent routines, and effective discipline techniques.
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Assessment Tools(5)
Conners Rating Scales
Conners 3Conners- Comprehensive assessment tools for ADHD symptoms and associated problems. Available in parent, teacher, and self-report versions. Widely used in Australian clinical practice.
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Continuous Performance Test
CPTQbTestTOVA- Computerized test measuring sustained attention and impulse control. Provides objective data but cannot diagnose ADHD alone. Examples include QbTest and TOVA.
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Neuropsychological Testing
Neuropsych TestingPsychoeducational Assessment- Comprehensive assessment of cognitive functions including attention, memory, processing speed, and executive function. Not required for ADHD diagnosis but may help identify learning difficulties and cognitive strengths/weaknesses. Cost: $1,500-$3,000 in Australia.
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SNAP-IV
SNAP Rating Scale- Swanson, Nolan and Pelham Rating Scale. A brief assessment tool based on DSM-IV criteria for ADHD. Often used for screening and monitoring treatment response.
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Vanderbilt ADHD Rating Scale
VanderbiltVADRS- A widely-used assessment tool completed by parents and teachers to evaluate ADHD symptoms and common comorbidities. Helps support clinical diagnosis but cannot diagnose ADHD alone. Free online version available.
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Healthcare Professionals(4)
Child Psychiatrist
Child & Adolescent PsychiatristPaediatric Psychiatrist- Medical doctor (MBBS/MD) with specialized training in child and adolescent mental health. Can diagnose ADHD, prescribe medication, and provide comprehensive treatment. Requires FRANZCP qualification in Australia.
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Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist- Registered psychologist with postgraduate training in assessment and treatment of mental health conditions. Can assess for ADHD and provide therapy but cannot prescribe medication. Accessible via Mental Health Care Plan.
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GP
General PractitionerFamily Doctor- General Practitioner. From early 2026 in NSW, GPs can diagnose and prescribe for ADHD. Can provide referrals to specialists and Mental Health Care Plans. First point of contact for most families.
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Paediatrician
PediatricianDevelopmental Paediatrician- Medical doctor specialising in children's health. Can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication. May specialise in developmental-behavioural paediatrics for complex cases.
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Australian Healthcare System(9)
AHPRA
Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency- Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. National regulator for health practitioners including doctors, psychologists, and other allied health professionals. All practicing clinicians must be registered.
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Better Access Initiative
Better Access- Australian government program providing Medicare-subsidized psychological services through Mental Health Care Plans. Covers up to 10 sessions per year with clinical psychologist or registered psychologist.
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FRANZCP
Fellowship RANZCP- Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. The specialist medical qualification for psychiatrists in Australia and New Zealand. Required to practice independently as a psychiatrist.
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Medicare
- Australia's universal healthcare system. Provides rebates for GP visits, specialist consultations (with referral), and limited psychology sessions under a Mental Health Care Plan. Does not cover ADHD medications at full cost.
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Mental Health Care Plan
MHCPMental Health Treatment PlanMHTP- GP-developed plan enabling Medicare rebates for up to 10 psychology sessions per calendar year. Requires GP assessment and can include ADHD as a focus. Also called MHCP or Mental Health Treatment Plan.
PBS
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme- Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. Australian government program subsidizing prescription medications. ADHD stimulant medications require authority prescription. Significant cost savings compared to private prescriptions.
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RANZCP
Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists- Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Professional body for psychiatrists. FRANZCP (Fellowship) is the specialist qualification required to practice as a psychiatrist in Australia.
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Schedule 8
S8Controlled Drug- Classification for controlled drugs with high potential for abuse or dependence in Australia. ADHD stimulant medications (methylphenidate, dexamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine) are Schedule 8. Requires special prescribing and storage requirements.
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General Medical Terms(8)
ASD
Autism Spectrum DisorderAutism- Autism Spectrum Disorder. Neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication and behavior. Can co-occur with ADHD in 20-30% of cases. Diagnosis and treatment requires specialist assessment.
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Dopamine
- Neurotransmitter (brain chemical) involved in attention, motivation, and reward. Lower dopamine activity in certain brain regions is associated with ADHD. Stimulant medications increase dopamine availability.
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IEP
Individual Education PlanIndividual Learning Plan- Individual Education Plan. Formal plan outlining educational adjustments and support for students with disabilities or learning difficulties. Called "Personalized Learning and Support Plan" in NSW public schools.
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Learning Disorder
Learning DisabilityLD- Specific difficulties with reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), or mathematics (dyscalculia) despite normal intelligence. Co-occurs with ADHD in 30-50% of cases.
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Neurodevelopmental Disorder
- Group of conditions affecting brain development and function, typically presenting in childhood. Includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disorders, and intellectual disability.
Norepinephrine
Noradrenaline- Neurotransmitter involved in attention, alertness, and arousal. Plays a key role in ADHD. Both stimulant and non-stimulant ADHD medications affect norepinephrine systems.
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ODD
Oppositional Defiant Disorder- Oppositional Defiant Disorder. Behavioral disorder characterized by defiant, hostile, and argumentative behavior. Occurs in 40% of children with ADHD as a comorbid condition.
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Prefrontal Cortex
PFC- Front region of the brain responsible for executive functions including planning, decision-making, impulse control, and attention. Shows different structure and function in ADHD.
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