ADHD – EU | ERASMUS Project
In the pursuit of fostering better lives for European adults dealing with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a visionary project, funded by the European Union, has emerged with a clear mandate – disseminate best practices for ADHD education and awareness. With a strategic focus on enhancing the quality of life for adults grappling with ADHD, this initiative brings together prominent organisations and institutions, uniting under a common goal to raise awareness, educate, and support individuals and their families.
This guide was created as part of the Erasmus + programme “ADHD-EU”, a programme funded by the European Union, with the main objective of facilitating the quality of life of adult patients with ADHD/ADD through raising awareness and promoting the education of both health care professionals and the general public.
This guide aims to provide useful and valid information for people with ADHD and their family and friends. Health professionals can also use it as an educational tool for their patients.
Online flip-book – click HERE
Download the PDF version – HERES
This project has received funding from the [European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme][Euratom research and training programme 2014-2018] under grant agreement No 2022-1-IE01-KA210-ADU-0000814110
Collaboration for Impact:
ADHD-Ireland spearheads this transformative endeavour, joined by esteemed partners including the Greek Carers Network, the Hellenic Brain Council, the University of Cyprus, ADD – ADHD CYPRUS association, University College Dublin and ADHD Foundation (UK). Together, these entities form a formidable alliance, striving to enhance educator competencies, advocate for inclusion, and provide comprehensive education and support for family caregivers.
Strategic Execution:
At this interim stage, the project’s activities have been methodically planned and executed to align seamlessly with its overarching objectives. From Zoom meetings to training activities in Greece, webinars, press releases, social media campaigns, and presentations during the initial kick-off and continued in Greece, each undertaken task reflects a commitment to advancing awareness, education, and support mechanisms for adults with ADHD.
Educational Initiatives:
The project has engaged in comprehensive educational efforts, targeting diverse stakeholders such as individuals with ADHD, healthcare professionals, family caregivers, and the general public. Training activities in Greece, featuring presentations and activities geared towards increasing knowledge, skills, and values related to supporting adults with ADHD, exemplify the commitment to dissemination and education.
Awareness Campaigns:
Meticulously executed awareness campaigns within targeted groups have fostered a deeper understanding of ADHD’s impact on individuals and communities. Social media updates, press releases, and website enhancements have played pivotal roles in disseminating project activities and educating the public about ADHD.
Support Enhancement:
In addressing the needs of individuals with ADHD and their family caregivers, the project has organised self-help groups, focus groups, and relevant meetings, creating vital support networks. The sharing of information about available supports and strategies during these sessions is instrumental in fostering understanding and support for adults with ADHD.
Knowledge Sharing:
The project has prioritised the dissemination of expertise, applicable practices, and first-hand experiences related to ADHD. Presentations during training activities and conferences have empowered individuals to cope effectively with their lived experience, fostering a community of shared knowledge.
Promotion of International Collaboration:
International cooperation has been actively promoted, facilitating networks and cultural exchanges. An exemplary instance is the collaboration with the ADHD Foundation, the largest ADHD agency in Europe, providing invaluable opportunities to share and learn from award-winning services, contributing to the development of new services at local and EU levels.
As this transformative initiative progresses, the commitment to breaking barriers and enhancing the lives of those affected by ADHD remains unwavering. With strategic collaboration, meticulous planning, and a dedication to education, awareness, and support, this project funded by the European Union emerges as a beacon of hope and progress for individuals navigating the complexities of ADHD in Europe. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this impactful journey together.
Project Partners
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Twitter \ X – click HERE
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Part 3 – Dublin
- 11th to 13th of June 2024
- Locations: Electro Route /UCD / Carmicheal House
- “Sharing Best Practice – ADHD”
Reflections from the 3rd International Meeting on ADHD Best Practices
From June 11th to 13th, 2004, ADHD Ireland hosted the 3rd International Seminar on ADHD Best Practices in Dublin. This event provided a collaborative space for agencies committed to supporting individuals, families, and the wider communities with ADHD knowledge and supports. The space facilitated the exchange of ideas and lived experiences of ADHD. The international meeting was part of a strategic partnership between Ireland, Greece, and Cyprus, co-funded by Erasmus Plus. This collaborative seminar brought together an inspiring community of individuals, professionals, and researchers to explore effective ADHD practices.
Over the course of three days, attendees engaged in a rich tapestry of presentations, personal stories, and insightful discussions, leaving them enlightened and motivated.
Day 1: Setting the Stage for Collaboration
The meeting commenced on June 11th at 2 Cumberland Place, Dublin, with a warm welcome from Ken Kilbride, CEO of ADHD Ireland. The initial session highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event, featuring presentations from Sophia Drosou, a psychologist with ADHD Hellas from Greece, and Dr. Andreas Chatzittofis from the University of Cyprus.
A standout moment was Dr. Leonidas Constantinides’ presentation on “Biomarkers in ADHD,” which provided a fascinating look into the future of ADHD diagnosis and treatment. The day concluded on a high note with an acoustic performance by Mr. Manolis Skoulas and insightful talks on adult ADHD services in Ireland by Dr. Margo Wrigley and Abbie Robinson presented her research “Adult Case Study in Ireland” and shared some personal experiences within her PhD Journey.
Day 2: Launching Good Practice Guidelines
The second day, held at The Club, UCD Campus, saw the much-anticipated launch of the Good Practice Guidelines for Adults with ADHD by Gary Gannon TD. This session emphasised the importance of structured support and advocacy for adults living with ADHD. The contributions of family carers, eloquently presented by Zoe Hughes and Elaine Edmonds, were both moving and educational, highlighting the pivotal role carers play in the ADHD community.
A particularly touching segment was the “Lived Experience Presentations” by Louisa Ni Eideáin. Her narrative, along with those of others who shared their personal journeys, brought a profound emotional depth to the event, fostering a sense of solidarity and understanding among participants.
Day 3: Exploring Innovative Approaches
The final day at Carmichael House emphasised innovative approaches and the integration of technology in ADHD management. Christina Seery’s presented in relation to ADHD Ireland’s Adult ADHD APP, which promises to modernise and transform how individuals manage their condition. The app has been downloaded over 15,000 times to date.
There was a session “Let’s Chat – ADHD Ireland Podcast” by Lauren McBride which showcased another creative avenue for support and awareness. Participants also heard from Laura Burke about her experience of UMAAP, which is ADHD Ireland’s newest innovated programme to support adults to Understand and Manage their ADHD. It is a 6 week programme that has been evaluated and found to achieve statistically significant wellbeing outcomes for participants.
The meeting concluded with reflections and future directions from Nicola Coss, ADHD Ireland’s National Programme Development Manager, leaving attendees with a sense of optimism and determination.
Building a Community for the Future
The success of this international meeting was not only in the knowledge shared but in the community built. The event stressed the power of bringing together individuals with lived experience, researchers, and advocates to create a comprehensive platform for future advocacy and support.
As we look forward to ADHD Awareness Month in October, the development and wider launch and dissemination of the of a Best Practices Guide will serve as a significant milestone. This guide, informed by the collective insights and experiences shared during the international meetings and continuous development for the duration of the project, aims to enhance support systems across Europe, benefiting individuals with ADHD, their families, and organisations seeking to provide better accommodations and supports.
The 3rd International Meeting on ADHD Best Practices was a testament to the strength of collaboration and the potential for impactful change. By uniting minds and hearts, we are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for those affected by ADHD.
Day 1 – Dublin
- “Biomarkers in ADHD” – Dr Leonidas Constantinides
- “Adult Case Study in Ireland ” – Abbie Robinson
- “Adult Services in Ireland” – Dr Margo Wrigley
Day 2 – Dublin
- “Good Practice Guidelines for Adults with ADHD” – Gary Gannon TD
- Family Carers in Ireland – Zoe Hughes & Elaine Edmonds
- Greetings Acoustic Performance – Mr. Manolis Skoulas
Day 1 in Dublin
- UMAAP – Adult Programme / ” Personal Journey ” – Laura Burke
- Adult ADHD APP – Christina Seery
Part 2 – Cyprus
- 12th to 14th of February 2024
- Location: University of Cyprus
- “Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”
Erasmus Co-Funded Learning Activity on Adult ADHD at the University of Cyprus
ADHD Ireland is part of an Erasmus+ KA2 project with Greece and Cyprus. We have a number of activities as part of this partnership project. One of which was recently held in Cyprus.
From February 10th to 12th, 2024, the University of Cyprus successfully led and hosted our Erasmus co-funded learning activity which focused on adult ADHD. The event, held in Nicosia, brought together participants from various countries, including representatives from ADHD Ireland and the Greek Carers Network EPIONI. This initiative aimed to enhance understanding and management of adult ADHD among patients, their relatives, and healthcare professionals. It is also part of a larger project which aims to produce a best practice guide at the end of our collaboration project.
Highlights and Objectives
The primary goal of this activity was to educate adults with ADHD, their caregivers, and healthcare providers on effective management strategies and support mechanisms. The sessions were successful and informative.
The sessions covered a range of topics:
· ADHD Self-management Strategies for Adults: Practical advice and techniques for individuals to manage their symptoms effectively.
· Treatment – A Multimodal Approach: Exploring various intervention strategies to provide comprehensive care for adult ADHD.
· Neurodiversity and ADHD: Promoting a strength-based paradigm to view ADHD positively.
· Role of Family Doctors: Guidance on diagnosis, titration, and ongoing support from primary healthcare providers.
The event was inclusive and saw active participation from adults with ADHD, their caregivers, and healthcare professionals from Cyprus, Greece, and Ireland. By bringing these groups together, the activity aimed to foster a community of understanding and support, enhancing the overall care and management of ADHD. The events were also stremed online for those who could not attend in person.
Key Outcomes
- Increased Awareness: The sessions significantly raised awareness about the nature, causes, and management of ADHD among the participants.
- Enhanced Knowledge: Healthcare professionals and educators gained deeper insights into ADHD, improving their ability to diagnose and treat the condition.
- Community Engagement: The event strengthened the local ADHD community in Nicosia and Limassol, fostering ongoing support and education.
- Collaboration and Progress: Partners and associated organisations discussed the progress of the Good Practices Guide, a key deliverable of the project, ensuring a unified approach to ADHD management across different regions.
- The event was activity 2 and follows on from our previously successful event in Greece. We are grateful to the University of Cyprus for playing a pivotal role in organising this comprehensive learning event in Cyprus and for the participation of all organisations. The event not only met but exceeded its objectives, contributing to a better understanding and management of adult ADHD. We are looking forward to the next event in Ireland in June 2024.
Part 1 – Greece
- 6.10.2023 (9:30 – 11:00)
- European Parliament Office in Greece
- “Living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”
The event was held under the auspices of the Region of Attica, the Hellenic Psychiatric Association and the Hellenic Brain Council. The event was co-funded by the European Union in the framework of the Erasmus+ small-scale project “ADHD-EU”
Mr. Haris Kountouros, Head of Public Relations of the European Parliament office in Greece, Mr. Stelios Kymouropoulos MEP and Mr. Spyridon Zorbas, President of EPIONI gave a short address. Mr. Zorbas said that from what was discussed the previous day it was evident that in the UK, Greece, Cyprus and Ireland it is extremely difficult for an adult to seek diagnosis and support. Mr Ken Kilbride, Director of ADHD-Ireland referred to a “tsunami” of requests that are difficult to support. After elaborating on the services provided by the organisation in Ireland aimed at both parents and adults with ADHD, he mentioned that the many support groups held free of charge through zoom are the largest in the world. Also that anyone who either has or has not, whether they are from Ireland or overseas can freely join.
Mr Andreas Chatzittofis, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Cyprus Medical School, spoke about the clinical picture of ADHD across the lifespan. He invited the participants to the training seminar in Nicosia.
Professor of Psychiatry Artemios Pehlivanidis, Head of the Unit for Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Adults, A’ Psychiatric Clinic of the Aeginitio Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens presented the diagnosis of ADHD in adults in Greece and the resource problems in the Greek health system.
The child psychiatrist Athanasios Kanellopoulos MD, MSc, Special Center for Adolescent Medicine & UNESCO Chair for Adolescent Health and Medicine at the Hawremio Research Laboratory, 1st Pediatric Clinic of EKPA Children’s Hospital “Aghia Sophia” and co-founder of the Network of Young Psychiatrists & Mental Health Professionals presented a very interesting presentation entitled “D. E. E. P. Y. Continuities and discontinuities from child to adult in a changing world. Challenges and concerns for the mental health specialist” Mr Arron Hutchinson, Education Training Director at the ADHD Foundation described support for adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the UK. How ADHD is treated by the media and how long the waiting list is for both private psychiatrists and the public sector for adults with ADHD.
Mr. Alexandros Economou Msc of Mental Health – Athens Medical School and Scientific Officer for KSEO EDRA referred to ADHD in everyday life as a Life Experience in Adults. He referred to EDRA’s psycho-educational centers. Finally, Ailín Kennedy, BSc, AACC, Professional ADHD Coach and Advocate from Ireland gave her lived experience of how her diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in adulthood led her to a successful career as an ADHD Coach.
You can watch the recap of the conference HERE (it’s a Facebook video)
6.10.2023, European Parliament Liaison Office (EPLO) in Greece, Athens
Updated 22nd of May 2024