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Understanding ADHD in Teens

Written by: Jessica Gross, M.A.
Understanding ADHD in Teens

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. The essential feature of ADHD is a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.

According to the DSM-5, inattention manifests behaviorally in ADHD as wandering off task, lacking persistence, having difficulty sustaining focus, and being disorganized. Hyperactivity refers to excessive motor activity, excessive fidgeting, tapping, or talkativeness. Impulsivity refers to hasty actions that occur in the moment without forethought and that have high potential for harm to the individual (may also reflect a desire for immediate rewards or an inability to delay gratification).

ADHD is most often identified during elementary school years, and inattention becomes more prominent and impairing. As teens mature, the specific challenges associated with ADHD evolve. For example, difficulties with organization and time management may become more prominent. Teenagers with ADHD may become more aware of their struggles and experience feelings of frustration, shame, or low self-esteem.

If your child is experiencing some of these symptoms and you believe they may be struggling with ADHD, it would be best to get an assessment from a psychologist. In addition, it is important to support your children in the following ways:

Academically

  • Communicate and work with teachers to create achievable goals and monitor progress
    • Explore potential accommodations and advocate for your teen
    • Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps
    • Utilize calendars, planners, and to-do lists
  • Utilize time management techniques and memory techniques
    • Set realistic deadlines and allocate specific time blocks for different activities
    • Recognize and address procrastination habits
    • Use memory techniques like chunking, visualization, and repetition
  • Create a supportive home environment
    • Ensure your teen has a dedicated/organized workspace free from distractions
    • Create structure and routine to help them manage time effectively
    • Limit distractions
  • Seek professional support
    • Consider seeking tutors

Relationally

  • Set clear expectations
    • Establish clear goals, positively reinforce efforts/achievements, and implement consistent consequences
  • Build a supportive environment
    • Create environment that your teen feels comfortable expressing their emotions
    • Limit stressors
    • Encourage regular sleep, exercise, and balanced diet

Emotionally

  • Teach emotion regulation skills
    • Help your teen identify and label emotions
    • Teach your teen effective coping mechanisms (deep breathing, mindfulness, or journaling)
    • Teach your teen effective problem-solving strategies
  • Consider therapy for your teen to address emotional challenges and develop coping strategies

While ADHD can present challenges, it also comes with unique strengths. Individuals with ADHD can possess creativity, energy, and a passion for learning. With the right strategies and support, these strengths can be harnessed to achieve great things.