Skip to 0 minutes and 6 seconds The diagnosis of autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other neurodevelopmental conditions has received attention in recent years, particularly in relation to adults.
Skip to 0 minutes and 20 seconds People are asking more questions about why: why their behaviours, actions or reactions currently or in the past may be different to others and why as a result of this, they may be treated in a different way. The World Health Organisation describes neurodevelopmental disorders as behavioural and cognitive disorders that occur during a baby’s developmental period. These include autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, amongst others. According to The WHO, ADHD is characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention and or hyperactivity, impulsivity that can have a direct negative impact on academic, occupational or social functioning.
Skip to 1 minute and 11 seconds Our research at Trinity College’s Dublin School of Nursing and Midwifery has highlighted how these definitions are being challenged to focus less on the negative factors and more on the protective factors, particularly among people who use substances as the comorbidity of neurodiversity and substance use disorder is increasingly being recognised. The aim of this course is to explain neurodiversity and its implications for service design and delivery to people who provide services for people who use drug and alcohol. The course will introduce participants to the latest evidence on neurodiversity and in particular autism and ADHD. The course will explore how all aspects of service delivery, from first assessment to ongoing engagement and referral and possible treatment, can be delivered within a neurodiverse-informed approach.
Skip to 2 minutes and 13 seconds Participants will be provided with real-life practical examples of current best practice on how to identify, screen, care for, and to direct people to national services where applicable. Participants will enhance their knowledge and skills in responding effectively to ADHD and autism-related issues. Those who will benefit most from this course include people who use substances and all service providers working with people who use drugs and alcohol, including project workers, peer workers, health and social care workers, managers, administrators, nurses, midwives and psychologists.
Skip to 2 minutes and 56 seconds The course is aimed towards staff working across a range of health and social care services and to encounter people who use drugs and are neurodiverse, from community drug services to community centres, mental health and social services, hospitals to care homes. Together we will explore how services can be improved not only for the benefit of neurodiverse individuals who use substances, but also for staff, families and communities.
