As a new school year begins, many teens and parents find themselves feeling anxious and uncertain. For teens with ADHD, adjusting to new routines can be particularly challenging, often making school a significant source of stress. This is especially true for those who have reached middle or high school without a diagnosis, leaving both teens and parents questioning the root of their struggles. In this post, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms of ADHD in teens and discuss ways to support your child.

Understanding ADHD in Teens

ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It comes in three types:

Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD
Inattentive ADHD
Combined ADHD

Signs of ADHD in Teens

Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD Signs:

Fidgeting a lot
Moving around when they shouldn’t
Talking too much
Butting into conversations
Having trouble waiting their turn

Boys often show these signs more. You might notice your teen acting without thinking or always being on the go.

Inattentive ADHD in Teens Signs:

Trouble focusing
Problems getting organized
Forgetting things often
Missing small details

Teens with this type might not turn in work, forget important tasks, or daydream a lot. Girls show these signs more often. Teachers might not notice because these teens are usually quiet in class. Combined ADHD has signs from both lists. It’s the most common type.

How ADHD Affects Teens

ADHD can make life hard for teens in many ways:

Trouble controlling feelings
Feeling hurt easily by what others say or do
Trying too hard to fit in or be perfect

Ways to Help Your Teen with ADHD

If you think your teen has ADHD, here’s how you can help:

Talk to an ADHD Expert.

A skilled therapist can teach your child valuable skills to navigate life with ADHD. They’ll learn how to handle tough feelings that often come with the condition. The therapist will also show them tricks to get better at planning and organizing, which can really help with schoolwork. Many teens with ADHD struggle socially, so the therapist will work on ways to make friends more easily. Lastly, they’ll teach techniques to stay calm and focused, which can help in all areas of life. These skills can make a big difference in how your teen copes with ADHD day-to-day.

Investigate School support

Schools often have special help for students with ADHD. Ask your teen’s school what they offer. They might have extra time for tests, quiet study spaces, or special classes. Some schools have teachers who know a lot about ADHD. They can help your teen learn in ways that work best for them. Remember, schools want to help your teen do well. Working with your teen’s teachers can make a big difference. Set up meetings to talk about how ADHD affects your teen at school. Share what works at home. Ask about any problems the teacher sees. Together, you can make plans to help your teen do better in class. T

Keeping open dialogue with your teen

Let them know it’s okay to share their worries and problems with you. Listen without judging. This helps your teen feel safe and understood. They might talk about trouble at school, problems with friends, or feeling different. By listening, you can learn what your teen needs and how to help. It also shows your teen that they’re not alone in dealing with ADHD.

Final Thoughts on ADHD in Teens

With the right support, teens with ADHD can learn to do well and get ready for adult life. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. A therapist can help you and your teen work together for a better school experience.

If you think your teen might have ADHD, talk to a doctor who knows about teen health. Getting help early can make a big difference in how your teen handles ADHD and enjoys life.

Julie is a licensed therapist who specializes in working with adults and teens with ADHD, trauma, substance use and anxiety. Learn more about her here.