"My son’s referral to CAHMS and subsequent ADHD diagnosis"

I referred my 8 year old son to CAMHS at Nazareth House in May 2024. The service that was provided to us was excellent. 

At our first meeting we were seen by Patrick (Psychiatrist Nurse Specialist in ADHD) and Dr _

My husband and I, along with our son, attended the initial assessment which lasted over an hour. During this meeting we were given ample opportunity to discuss our concerns regarding our son, and we felt we were listened to without judgement. The team were sensitive to my son’s presence at the meeting.

Forms were provided to both ourselves and the school and when these were returned, there was no delay in CAHMS sending a professional to observe our son in the school setting. 

Following a meeting with Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Kalu, our son received a diagnosis for ADHD (inattentive type). Dr Kalu was generous with her time and we found her to be empathetic and reassuring in her communication with us. She has a lovely way with children and she had a very encouraging chat with our son.

 Followed the meeting with Dr Kalu we found the team worked efficiently, providing ourselves with an information pack and the school received confirmation of the diagnosis along with recommendations on how to accommodate our son’s social and educational needs. 

Throughout the entire process, Patrick has been most helpful. His manner of communication has always been non judgemental and supportive. At all times Patrick advised us that if we had any questions, not to hesitate in calling the service-

when we did, our calls were always returned.

Setting out on this journey was difficult, but the team at CAMHS (Sligo/Leitrim ) were most supportive and made the process as stress free as possible,

Many thanks