About ADHD
ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) affects attention, impulsivity and activity in children and adults. Diagnosis requires a thorough assessment, often by a psychiatrist, neuropsychologist or specialised psychologist. Treatment may include psychoeducation, behavioural strategies, support at school or work and, if appropriate, medication.
Educational psychologists are psychologists who work on learning, development and well-being at school: assessment of learning difficulties, ADHD or high abilities, support plans and guidance for families and teachers.
Getting mental health care in Iraq
Public health system · Ministry of Health public health services
Public mental health care is run by the Ministry of Health, whose 2015 National Mental Health Strategy aims to integrate mental health into primary health care with a community-based approach. WHO and the ministry train non-specialist staff in primary health care centres to identify and manage common mental disorders (mhGAP). Specialist inpatient care is concentrated in a few psychiatric hospitals in Baghdad (Ibn Rushd and Al-Rashad) and psychiatric units in general hospitals, and there is a recognised shortage of psychiatrists. More information
How to check that a professional is licensed
- Iraqi Medical Association (Doctors' Syndicate, Niqabat al-Atibba). Doctors, including psychiatrists, are registered with the Iraqi Medical Association. Ask the psychiatrist for their syndicate registration.
Urgent help in Iraq
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 122 · Ambulance
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: emro.who.int, emro.who.int, odihpn.org, shafaq.com
Signs to look out for
Everyone gets distracted at times. ADHD may be worth assessing when difficulties with attention, organisation, impulsivity or restlessness have been present since childhood, appear in different settings such as school, work and home, and cause real problems: unfinished tasks, frequent lost items, forgetting appointments, acting without thinking, or feeling constantly restless. In adults it is often unrecognised for years.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Diagnosis requires a careful assessment by a qualified professional, such as a psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, neuropsychologist or paediatrician, depending on age and country. Treatment may combine psychoeducation, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for organisation and emotional regulation, parent training for children, school adaptations, and medication prescribed and monitored by a doctor when appropriate. Educational psychologists and psychopedagogues support learning.
When to seek urgent help
ADHD itself is not an emergency, but impulsivity can increase risks. Contact your local emergency services after a serious accident or injury, or if someone has thoughts of suicide or harming others. Seek prompt medical advice for any worrying side effects of medication, such as chest pain or palpitations, and do not change medication without talking to the prescribing doctor.
What you can do in the meantime
External structure helps: use calendars, alarms, lists and visible reminders, and break tasks into small steps with short breaks. Regular sleep, physical activity and meals support attention. Reduce distractions in your work or study space. For children, clear routines, specific praise and calm, consistent limits help. Look for reliable information from health organisations rather than social media alone.
What does a educational psychologist do?
An educational psychologist supports children and young people’s learning, development and well-being in educational settings. Day to day they assess learning, attention, behaviour and emotional difficulties, observe pupils in class, write reports with recommendations, and work with families and teachers on support plans. Some also guide students on study habits, school transitions and career choices, or train school staff.
When to see a educational psychologist
It makes sense to consult an educational psychologist when a child struggles to read, write or do maths despite effort, has trouble concentrating, shows changes in behaviour at school, may have high abilities, or faces bullying or school refusal. If there are significant emotional problems at home as well, or a possible mental health condition, a clinical or child psychologist may also be needed.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in Iraq cover psychological care?
Public mental health care is run by the Ministry of Health, whose 2015 National Mental Health Strategy aims to integrate mental health into primary health care with a community-based approach. WHO and the ministry train non-specialist staff in primary health care centres to identify and manage common mental disorders (mhGAP). Specialist inpatient care is concentrated in a few psychiatric hospitals in Baghdad (Ibn Rushd and Al-Rashad) and psychiatric units in general hospitals, and there is a recognised shortage of psychiatrists.
How do I check that a educational psychologist is licensed in Iraq?
Iraqi Medical Association (Doctors' Syndicate, Niqabat al-Atibba): Doctors, including psychiatrists, are registered with the Iraqi Medical Association. Ask the psychiatrist for their syndicate registration.