ADHD affects attention, impulse control, and activity levels, impacting school performance and social interactions. While typically diagnosed in early childhood, many parents recognize ADHD symptoms as their teens grow older and face new challenges. Adolescent ADHD treatment programming can help teens manage the condition and succeed in all areas of their lives.

When Is ADHD Diagnosed?

In 2022, an estimated 7 million American children aged 3 to 17 had an ADHD diagnosis.¹ And, according to data from 2023, the number of Americans—including children, adolescents, and adults—with an ADHD diagnosis was approximately 15.5 million.²

Doctors usually identify ADHD in children between the ages of 3 and 7, as symptoms manifest in various settings like school, home, and during play. However, some children reach adolescence before symptoms are formally recognized. This delay can be attributed to multiple factors, including subtle symptoms that were previously manageable or the development of compensatory strategies masking the disorder in younger years.

Even if your teen has never been diagnosed with ADHD, that doesn’t mean they don’t have it. Receiving an accurate diagnosis can help you know when adolescent ADHD treatment is necessary to provide support and strategies that help teens manage their symptoms effectively. If you suspect your teen may have ADHD, look for key behaviors and seek professional guidance for evaluation and support.

Symptoms of ADHD in Teens

Recognizing the common signs of ADHD in teens can be tricky, as adolescence is a period of significant change. However, several symptoms stand out as particularly indicative of ADHD:

• Inattention – Teens with ADHD might frequently make careless mistakes in schoolwork, have trouble concentrating on tasks, fail to follow instructions, and avoid tasks requiring sustained mental effort. Common signs are forgetting assignments, losing personal items, and becoming easily distracted.
• Hyperactivity – Hyperactive teens often fidget, have trouble staying seated, talk excessively, and interrupt conversations. They may engage in activities noisily and struggle to engage in quiet leisure activities.
• Impulsivity – Impulsive behaviors include acting without thinking, difficulty waiting their turn, and interrupting others. These behaviors can lead to social challenges and risky decision-making.
• Emotional dysregulation – Teens with ADHD may struggle to regulate their emotions, leading to frequent outbursts, irritability, and difficulty handling stress or frustration.

The teenage years are a time of significant physical, emotional, and social change, which can exacerbate these symptoms. Teens with ADHD may struggle with maintaining friendships, keeping up with schoolwork, and managing daily responsibilities, leading to frustration and low self-esteem.

How Can Adolescent ADHD Treatment Help?

Understanding and addressing ADHD in adolescence is vital for a healthy transition into adulthood. Here’s why seeking treatment can be life-changing for teens and their families:

• Improved academic performance – ADHD treatment can help teens develop better focus and organizational skills, leading to improved grades and academic success.
• Enhanced social skills – Therapy and counseling can teach teens effective communication and social interaction strategies, promoting healthier relationships with peers and family members.
• Boosted self-esteem – Successfully managing ADHD symptoms helps teens develop a positive self-image and confidence, empowering them to pursue their goals.
• Reduced risk of co-occurring conditions – Teens with untreated ADHD are more susceptible to developing depression and anxiety. Early intervention can help mitigate these risks.

When considering treatment options, it’s essential to choose a comprehensive approach that aligns with your teen’s specific needs. Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), focuses on developing coping strategies and problem-solving skills with the guidance of a therapist.

Medication is another common option, with stimulant medications like Adderall used to manage symptoms. At the same time, non-stimulant alternatives are available for those who don’t respond well to stimulants. However, relying on medications alone isn’t recommended, as therapy and other strategies can help teens develop long-term skills for managing their ADHD, and medications aren’t always accessible. In 2023, approximately one-third of Americans currently living with ADHD have reported taking prescription stimulant medication within the past year. Among those who used stimulant medications, a significant 71.5% faced challenges in having their ADHD prescriptions filled due to medication unavailability during the same period.²

Additionally, parent training can equip caregivers with effective strategies to support their teens, fostering a positive home environment that benefits the entire family. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sufficient sleep, can also have a beneficial impact on ADHD symptoms. Lastly, academic support from schools, such as extended test time and modified assignments, plays a vital role in helping teens thrive in their educational settings.

Connect with Family First and Get the Help Your Teen Needs

Living with ADHD can be challenging, but with the proper support and resources, teens can thrive. If you’re noticing signs of ADHD in your teen and believe they may benefit from intervention, consider reaching out for professional guidance.

At Family First Adolescent Services, we specialize in providing personalized ADHD treatment to support teens in managing their symptoms and reaching their full potential. Contact us online or call 888.904.5947 to learn more about our approach and how we can help your teen on their path to success.

Footnotes:

1. CDC – Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) – Data and Statistics on ADHD
2. CDC – Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023