Teenagers who struggle with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have a harder time being successful at school and making and maintaining relationships with peers. The disorder is characterized by impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. Teens are impulsive by nature, so when a teen has this disorder, impulsivity can result in dangerous behaviors such as using drugs and having unprotected sex, without thinking about the consequences. It's important that teens with this disorder receive treatment to reduce their symptoms.
Basics
Each teen responds differently to specific medications. One teen might find a good fit on the first try, but more than likely, it will take time to find the right medication or combination of medications to treat the disorder. Doctors usually start a teen off on a small dose and increase the dosage over time in order to deal with any negative side effects that arise.
Common Medications
After your teen receives a diagnosis of ADHD from a mental health professional, medication may be recommended to help alleviate the symptoms that make it hard for your teen to concentrate in school, relate to his peers and make well-thought-out decisions. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the most common form of medication used to treat this disorder in all age groups is stimulants. Some common stimulants include Ritalin, Adderall and Dexedrine. These medications come in different forms, such as pills, skin patches and liquids. They also come in short-acting, long-acting and extended-release varieties.
Types of Therapy
Another form of treatment for teen ADHD is therapy, which also comes in different forms. Individual therapy, social skills training, family therapy and group therapy can be used to treat this mental health issue in adolescents. The most common type of individual therapy used to treat ADHD is cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps an adolescent understand how her thoughts affect her emotions and behaviors.
Family therapy is usually an important piece of treatment with children and teens, because everyone in the family is impacted by the disorder. In family therapy, parents learn the symptoms, the impact of the symptoms and different types of treatment. The family practices effective methods of communication and parents are taught how to deal with specific situations.
Lifestyle Changes
Therapists and doctors will also work with teens and their families in incorporating healthy lifestyle changes in order to reduce the symptoms of ADHD. It's important that a teen with this disorder get at least eight hours of sleep each night, eat healthfully and get regular exercise. A therapist might suggest that a teen join a team sport at school to practice social skills and reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity. Learning time management skills and communication skills can also help teens cope with this disorder.
Considerations
Teens that have coexisting disorders such as a mood disorder or an anxiety disorder will need more intensive forms of treatment and may require different types of medication. Adolescents that have coexisting substance abuse issues will need treatment that addresses both mental health problems.
