Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) always arises in childhood, but sometimes teens are not properly diagnosed or continue to struggle with the disorder in their adolescence and throughout adulthood, according to the Mayo Clinic. ADHD symptoms make it difficult for teens to succeed in school and maintain healthy relationships with their parents, peers and teachers.
Symptoms
Symptoms that a teen struggles with this disorder include difficulty paying attention, trouble turning in assignments on time, disorganization at school and home, hyperactivity, excessive talking and impulsive decision-making. Many teens who suffer from ADHD lose things, seem self-centered, forget important dates and appointments, and act inappropriately in social settings.
Causes
KidsHealth.org reports that researchers haven't found one specific ADHD cause, but they do know that teens with this disorder have altered levels of neurotransmitters in their brains. Some researchers believe that this disorder relates to genetics or being born prematurely.
Treatment
The two most common forms of treatment include medication and therapy. Most doctors prescribe a stimulant such as Ritalin or Adderall as the first form of medication, but if teens don't respond to the stimulants, doctors may prescribe a non-stimulant such as Strattera, according to the Mayo Clinic. It might take multiple attempts before adolescents find the most effective medication or combination of medication with the least amount of negative side effects.
Medication reduces the symptoms of the disorder, but it's not a cure, so teens who struggle with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy. In therapy, they learn about the disorder and how to manage the symptoms. They're often given behavioral techniques to apply outside of therapy sessions, such as splitting up big school assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Misconceptions
Many teens with ADHD get labeled as bad kids by teachers, other parents and sometimes by their own parents. Many people don't realize that these adolescents aren't intentionally misbehaving and acting impulsively. It's easy to become frustrated with teens with ADHD, but parents and teachers must understand that these teens act the way they do due to a mental health problem, not intentionally.
Considerations
Teens who suffer from ADHD struggle with hyperactivity and impulsivity. To decrease hyperactivity and keep teens out of situations where they can make impulsive, destructive decisions, these teens are advised to participate in sports. Consistent exercise will help them get out overwhelming energy, as well as help them sleep at night and stay focused during the day. It's beneficial for teens to get involved with school in other ways as well, such as joining clubs or running for class office.
Warning
Some teens who have ADHD sell their medication to their peers, because many teens abuse stimulants to lose weight or study for long periods of time. Parents should monitor their teen's medications and make sure that their teen is the only ones taking the pills.
