In the past, it was commonly believed that only children could have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It was also believed to be something one would “outgrow”, hence only a “disorder of childhood”. Through research we now know that this is not the case. ADHD has been observed to have persisted in about 60 percent of diagnosed children through their teen years and into adulthood. Thus, ADHD can affect a person through a lifetime.

The Challenges of Raising a Teen with ADHD

Many parents complain about their teenagers making family life difficult at times. Teens have a reputation for acting impulsively, being easily distracted, and on some occasions getting out of control. They all have their moments when they disobey their parents, get off track and/or fail to complete a task. The challenge can be even greater for parents of a teen with ADHD.

Most teens may occasionally ignore instructions and usually follow most rules. On the other hand, a teen with ADHD will likely have problems both at home and at school, and in other settings. It’s common for them to forget assignments, lose things, and get easily bored in a variety of settings (including school). This often results in either inattentiveness or excessive attention—for example, interrupting the teacher or a classmate when the teen gets impatient waiting for their turn.

Due to problems with distractibility and poor concentration, teens with ADHD may receive poor grades and be passed over for school-related activities. Relationships with peers may be strained. It is also likely that they may have conflicts with adults. Parents and teachers may become frustrated by the constant repetition of instructions and their difficulty completing the task at hand.

A teen experiencing symptoms of ADHD, particularly hyperactive type, may exhibit extreme behaviors such as the tendency to take risks, make quick decisions and engage in risky activities. These tendencies can make teens with ADHD prone to accidents and serious injuries, and perhaps even more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol.

The symptoms above, due to their potentially dangerous nature, can be easier to spot than other symptoms of ADHD. Additional symptoms may include;

• Restlessness
• Short attention span
• Difficulty finishing school projects or homework
• Impulsive tendency
• Poor sleeping pattern
• Hyperactivity
• Impatience
• Irritability

Rising to the Challenge

Parenting a teen is not easy, and it is even harder when the teen has ADHD. It can feel like riding a roller coaster: you experience highs and lows, laughter and tears, as well as breathtaking and scary moments. Unsettling days may be more common than uneventful ones.

There is no known exact cause of ADHD. Many factors can play a role in teen ADHD, including genetics, nutrition, environment, and brain function; it has very little to do with specific parenting skills or techniques.

It’s natural to worry about your teen if they have the symptoms of ADHD. Perhaps you’re concerned about their future. Will they ever graduate from high school and continue to college? Will they be able to find a steady job? What life skills does your teenager have to confront life’s challenges?

ADHD is treatable. Studies show that early intervention can make a big difference. Many treatment options are available, including behavioral therapy, which is often very effective.

Finding Treatment for Teen ADHD

Behind the symptoms of teen ADHD is a young individual with lots of potential. Despite all the struggles, challenges, and pressures of ADHD, it is very possible to address these symptoms with therapy.

The first step to treatment can be finding a credible counselor. Look no further than Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC, where there are independently contracted counselors with years of experience and training in treating ADHD. When you make a call, you’ll be matched with a therapist who will develop a treatment plan that will work best for your teen. Call now to request an appointment. Online sessions are also available!