Neurodevelopmental disorders affect how the brain and nervous system develop. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two of the more commonly known neurodevelopmental disorders. These conditions all exist on a spectrum, often with overlapping symptoms that can vary in severity from person to person. This spectrum of neurodiversity is a great example of how thinking, learning, and interacting are all different for everyone.

Most of the world is easier for neurotypical people—those without neurodevelopmental conditions—to navigate. Neurodevelopmental disorders in teens can cause challenges in school, building relationships, and even living independently as an adult.

Types of Neurodevelopmental Disorders

There are four main types of neurodevelopmental disorders:

• ADHD – It’s characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
• ASD – Autism affects communication and behavior and includes a wide range of symptoms and skills, varying in levels of impairment.
• Learning disorders – Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia are included in this category, each affecting reading, math, and writing skills, respectively.
• Intellectual disabilities – These involve deficits in general mental capacity that impact intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.
• Communication disorders – Speech and language difficulties encompass challenges that affect how teens express themselves and understand others.

Many times, neurodevelopmental disorders are diagnosed during childhood or adolescence but can remain undiagnosed until adulthood. Some people may never receive an accurate diagnosis but still live with a neurodevelopmental disorder.

How Common Are Neurodevelopmental Disorders?

An estimated 300 million people worldwide live with a neurodevelopmental disorder.¹ In the U.S., about 7 million children aged 3–17 have ever been diagnosed with ADHD—that’s 11.4% of children in the country.² When it comes to ASD, about 1 in 36 U.S. children have ever been diagnosed.³

Boys tend to be diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders at a higher rate than girls.⁴ And boys with ADHD are more likely to have co-occurring behavior or conduct problems, developmental delays, and autism spectrum disorder.² Other co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, speech/language disorders, and learning disabilities are also common among children with ADHD.

Neurodevelopmental Symptoms Exist on a Spectrum

Symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders vary depending on the specific condition and the individual but often include:

• Behavioral challenges – Impulsivity, hyperactivity, and difficulty following instructions
• Cognitive impairments – Struggles with memory, attention, and learning new skills
• Social difficulties – Challenges in interacting with peers, making friends, and understanding social cues
• Communication issues – Delays in language development, difficulties in expressing thoughts, or understanding spoken language

Identifying these symptoms early is crucial for parents and caregivers navigating the complexities of raising a teenager.

When Does Your Child Need Professional Help?

Professional support can help your child learn important social skills, strategies for staying on task in school, or ways to manage impulses. Other treatment may also be necessary for managing co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression, as well as medication management for ADHD symptoms. Your child might need professional support if:

• Their behaviors or learning difficulties are causing significant impairment in their daily life
• They are struggling to keep up academically, socially, or emotionally with peers of the same age
• They have experienced a major change in functioning or development that you cannot explain

Reaching out for help can give your child the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond. When they can learn the important skills they need to navigate the neurotypical world around them, they can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Celebrating Neurodiversity at Family First

At our South Florida center, we celebrate each of our unique clients and their neurodiversity. We know that their challenges and strengths are all part of who they are, and our team works closely with each family to support their child’s needs. Through therapeutic activities, individualized treatment plans, and a supportive community, we help teens with neurodevelopmental disorders reach their goals and become confident individuals. Our goal is not to “fix” them but rather to provide the tools and strategies they need to thrive in a world that may not always be easy to navigate.

We also work closely with parents to provide education about neurodiversity, how they can support their children, and how to help them prepare for adulthood. Get the support your family deserves by calling 888.904.5947 or contacting Family First online now.

Footnotes:

1. UC Davis Health – UC Davis Health Magazine Volume 14, No 1, Summer 2017
2. CDC – Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
3. CDC – Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
4. EPA – Health – Neurodevelopmental Disorders