The Safety Net
Children & Teens ADHD Specialist In Singapore
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr. Tan Sheng Neng
MMED (Psych), MBBS, MCI, FAMSAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that can cause unusual levels of hyperactivity and impulsive behaviours. Children & Teens with ADHD may not have hyperactivity symptoms, but the following persisting symptoms:
- Lack of focus
- Disorganisation
- Time Management Issues
- Forgetfulness
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by inattention, disorganisation, hyperactivity and impulsivity. ADHD may lead to breakdowns in relationships, poor school performance, decreased self-esteem, and other mental health issues.
While the hyperactivity symptoms often decrease with age, children and teens with ADHD may also have trouble focusing on a single task or sitting still for a prolonged period.
Some treatment options for ADHD include behavioural therapies or medications designed to affect brain chemicals in a way that enables you to control your impulses and actions better.
Is your child’s lack of focus, disorganization, time management issues or forgetfulness disrupting their personal life?
ADHD is considered a serious medical condition that can get worse without proper treatment.
Get Started
Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
Dr. Tan Sheng Neng 
Dr Tan was the Director of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service (2017-2019) at Changi General Hospital (CGH), Singapore. He was also an Assistant Director (Psych) of the Integrated Sleep Service at CGH (SingHealth Duke-NUS Sleep Centre), where he helped develop into a department in 2018.
- Master of Medicine (Psychiatry)
- Master of Clinical Investigation (MCI)
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
- Fellow of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS)
At present, besides the clinical work in his clinic and hospitals, Dr Tan also holds the following appointments:
- Clinical Advisor to Samaritans of Singapore (SOS)
- Lecturer to Executive Counselling and Training Academy (ECTA)
Dr Tan has a specialised interest in neuropsychiatry. He treats patients with Sleep Disorders, Mild Cognitive Impairment and Brain trauma or injury, particularly from strokes.
Read Full Bio
Symptoms of ADHD
Some of the most commonly reported symptoms of ADHD are:
- Difficulty relaxing
- Impulsiveness
- Poor time management
- Excessive activity or restlessness
- Low frustration tolerance
- Trouble coping with stress
- Frequent mood swings
- Having so many simultaneous thoughts that it’s difficult to follow just one
- Poor listening skills such as difficulty remembering conversations and following directions
If you’re observing persistent symptoms, please reach out to a specialist and get a diagnosis.
What Causes ADHD
Despite multiple studies, researchers have yet to determine the exact causes of ADHD. While the exact cause of ADHD is not clear, research efforts continue. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include:
Genetics
Genetics. ADHD can run in families, and studies indicate that genes may play a role.
Environment
Certain environmental factors also may increase risk, such as exposure to lead or pesticides as a child.
Problems during development
Problems with the central nervous system at key moments in development may play a role
Negative Impact of ADHD
When a child or teenager’s ADHD is left untreated and undiagnosed, the long-term effects can lead to significant impairment in quality of life, such as the following:
- Social isolation
- Decreased school performance
- Inability to form lasting bonds with family and friends
- Dropping out of school or loss of jobs
- Unwanted pregnancies
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Increased risk-taking behaviours
- Depression
- Disruption of family relationships
- Stress
- Risks for accidental injuries
- Substance abuse
- Antisocial personality disorder
Is your child’s lack of focus, disorganization, time management issues or forgetfulness disrupting their personal life?
ADHD is considered a serious medical condition that can get worse without proper treatment.
Get Started
ADHD Treatment Options
Medication
Different types of medication may be prescribed to someone who has ADHD. Your doctor can help you determine which medicine is best for you, but taking all medications as prescribed is essential while being vigilant about any side effects. If serious side effects are experienced, it is important to consult your doctor immediately.
Therapy
Children & Teens with ADHD often benefit from ongoing therapy to process life stressors and develop behavioural skills for symptom management.
How is ADHD Diagnosed
While there’s no universal method for diagnosing ADHD, a qualified professional will use multiple evaluations and tests to diagnose ADHD in a Child or Teenager. ADHD can't be diagnosed from simple observations or a quick conversation. Some of the assessment methods are:
1
The Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA)
The TOVA is a computerised, standardised test that measures an individual's ability to pay attention to a visual and auditory task. Scores compare the client's performance to that of same-age, same-gender individuals with ADHD and without ADHD.
2
The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning- (BRIEF)
The BRIEF is a norm-referenced rating scale to gather information about a child or adolescen'ts ability to regulate impulses, complete tasks, organise, focus, and other symptoms of ADHD.
Speak To Us Today
Get Specialised Medical Care For Your Mental Health
We will make it easier for you to improve your mental well-being.
Get Started
Your treatment Roadmap with Dr Tan
1
Registration
Our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your registration, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for you. Book your appointment today.
2
Detailed Consultation
Dr Tan will speak to you, assess your condition, and develop a personalised treatment plan, which may include therapy and/ or medication.
3
Follow-up Visits
Dr Tan will schedule follow up visits to check in with you and make adjustments to your personalised treatment plan if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
The difference between ADHD and ADD is the hyperactivity symptom. ADHD is now the official medical term for the condition. ADD is an outdated term to describe inattentive-type ADHD. People with inattentive ADHD are not hyper or impulsive.
What is executive function?
Executive Function (EF) refers to brain functions that activate, organise, integrate and manage. It enables individuals to account for their actions’ short- and long-term consequences and plan for those results. It also allows individuals to make real-time evaluations of their actions and necessary adjustments if those actions do not achieve the desired result.
How is ADHD diagnosed?
There is no single test to diagnose ADHD. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to establish a diagnosis, rule out other causes, and determine the presence or absence of co-existing conditions. Such an evaluation requires time and effort and should include a careful history and a clinical assessment of the individual’s academic, social, and emotional functioning and developmental level.
Take the first step towards Better Mental Health
Start your mental health journey with us today. Get the proper personalised treatment plan you deserve.
Visit Us Today
Feel free to drop by our our clinic and meet our specialist
-
290 Orchard Road
#09-07 Paragon
Singapore 238859 -
-
-
Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays
