Navigating ADHD in teenagers

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that can create challenges with impulsivity, inattentiveness, and hyperactivity. While it can affect people of all ages, research shows that nearly 6% of teens worldwide live with ADHD. 

Understanding the unique ways that ADHD impacts teens can help ensure they receive effective, developmentally appropriate support at this important life stage.

What does ADHD look like in teenagers?

The teen years can be an exciting time. But they aren’t always easy. Young people are busy navigating social and academic pressures, exploring their identities, taking on new responsibilities, and differentiating themselves from their families. 

These challenges can help prepare young people for adulthood. However, they can be especially difficult for teens with ADHD. 

While the main symptoms of ADHD remain the same at every age, here’s how they might show up differently for teenagers:

• If a teen is having trouble focusing in class, you might see a decline in their academic performance. And if they’re teased about asking for help, they might be less inclined to accept support from teachers or other caring adults.
• Teens who struggle with time management might turn in assignments late, forget to do tasks at home, like chores, or struggle to get to school on time. This can lead to frustration and, in some cases, unwanted consequences, like detention. Problems with time management can also affect a teen’s self-esteem — especially if they don’t understand why it’s such a challenge for them.
• Blurting out answers in class, talking over people, and making risky decisions (i.e. with driving, sexual activity, or substance use) are all signs of impulse control problems in teens. While most young people will make impulsive decisions from time to time, this may be more prevalent among teens with ADHD. This increased impulsivity can affect social relationships and lead to conflict with parents and caregivers.
• Young children with ADHD often have trouble sitting still due to hyperactivity. But for teens, this symptom can be more subtle. Instead of running around the room, they might fidget, feel restless, or choose activities that keep them moving, like pacing while watching videos on their phone.
• Sometimes, ADHD can make it difficult to control emotions. For teens, this can manifest as having a “short fuse,” or being quick to anger. While emotional reactivity isn’t uncommon among teenagers, it may be more pronounced among those with ADHD. These young people might respond to simple requests, like asking them to clean their room or do homework, with outbursts or tears.

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What causes ADHD in teens?

To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must be present before age 12, and most children are identified around age 6. However, the causes of ADHD remain the same regardless of a person’s age or when they’re diagnosed. 

Causes of ADHD include:

• Genetics: If you have a first-degree relative, like a sibling or parent, with ADHD, it may increase your risk. 
• Biology: People with ADHD have differences in their brain structure and neurobiology.
• Environment: Factors like brain injuries, nutrition, and stress may play a role in the onset of ADHD. 

Five ways to help a teenager with ADHD

If you’re the parent of a teenager with ADHD, here are some things you can do to support them. 

1. Create structured routines. Having a consistent, predictable schedule can provide a sense of stability and help teens stay on track. 
2. Communicate clearly. Use clear, direct, consistent language whenever you communicate about rules or expectations. 
3. Practice coping strategies together. Encourage your teen to take breaks when they’re upset, break big assignments into smaller tasks, and practice their organizational skills. You can do the same to set an example. 
4. Recognize the positive. All parents get frustrated with their teens sometimes. But instead of just focusing on unwanted behaviors, be sure to recognize the positive ones too. 
5. Ask the school for support. If your child is having problems at school due to ADHD, talk to their teacher, administrator, or school counselor. They might be able to provide some accommodations — like more time on tests, social skills groups, or individual counseling — that could help your teen thrive.

When to consider ADHD treatment

If your teen is struggling to make friends, succeed in school, or regulate their emotions or behavior — and symptoms aren’t improving — talking to a therapist can help. But to receive an ADHD diagnosis, your child will need to meet with a qualified healthcare professional, like a pediatrician, clinical psychologist, or psychiatrist. 

These providers will conduct a formal evaluation that will serve as the foundation for your child’s treatment plan. Then, together, you can collaborate on the best next steps for your child. This might include therapy, medication, school-based services, and other supports, depending on your teen’s unique needs.

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The teen years can be especially stressful for teens with ADHD. And sometimes, this can take a toll on their parents. However, this stage won’t last forever, and support is available. Modeling coping mechanisms, encouraging healthy peer relationships, celebrating your teen’s strengths, and enrolling your teen in therapy when needed can help you both navigate this important life stage.

At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best. 

Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.

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