Different research has revealed that ADHD is one of the most prevalent disorders in children and American teens. This disorder has disruptive symptoms; this means that the symptoms of this disorder can interfere with the daily activities of the individual. Thus, a teen’s life can suffer tremendously from ADHD, this will affect the kid’s performance in school and how he or she relates with other people.
ADHD is not something a kid can outgrow, although some people wants to believe that. ADHD symptoms in teens can stick with them through their adult lives when there is no proper and consistent intervention. ADHD symptoms in teens may vary because it usually coexists with other mood disorders. For instance, some of the ADHD symptoms in teens can be mixed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder symptoms, some with OCD, some with anxiety, depression, and so on. If you are not sure which one your child may be suffering from, you can try asking a teen therapy provider to see if they can diagnose them.
How your teen’s life is affected by ADHD
Teens with ADHD are mostly challenged in school. Their interactions with teachers and students in school usually highlight features that are different about them, and most times, it is a major source of frustration. For example, a teenager may want to listen to what his/her teacher have to say but ends up distracting his/herself with other activities or looking outside the window while in the classroom.
A teen may have a task to do after school, let’s say a homework, but fail to recall where he or she wrote the details of the assignment when they are at home. Or they can totally forgets about the homework and get involved with something else, like movies or games. As odd as it may seem, most teens with ADHD are so interested in video games that is becomes obsessive. An obsession like this makes it more difficult for teens to dissociate themselves from playing games and associate themselves with other individuals.
Because teens with ADHD struggle with social cues and mores, other children may not want to be friends with them. Thus, they are hardly accepted in their environment and eventually bond with the wrong crowd and get involved in risky behaviors. Most teens with ADHD usually turn to dangerous or illicit substances because they feel that’s the best and only way to manage the symptoms of the disorder they know nothing about.
As a parent, you can help your teen manage ADHD symptoms and become more stable; however, achieving this requires hard work, dedication and consistency. The best option is to seek the service of a mental health professional like New Vision Psychology ADHD treatment from intervention to maintenance, ensuring that you receive comprehensive care. The suggestions below can help parents help their teenagers with ADHD:
1. Talk to your doctor about a holistic approach that involves medication and therapy.
2. Get your teen engaged in activities that will boost their self-esteem.
3. Establish a schedule that is clear, easy to follow and understand. Make copies and place them where your teen can see them.
4. You and your teen have to work hand in hand on his/her homework or schoolwork. You can teach your teen about learning and studying techniques or seek assistance from a mental health expert.
5. Build a healthy relationship with your teen’s teacher, ensure they are aware about your child’s condition and that you are aware of what your teen is passing through in school.
6. Be calm when correcting or disciplining your teen, do not temper with their emotions.
7. Ensure he or she gets quality sleep every day.
Sadly, some teens end up becoming depressed and sad because of their mental health challenge. If this happens to your teen, try reading them affirmations that can boost their mood. These have been shown to help foster positivity and bring hope into ones life.