How to Recognize ADHD Symptoms in Teenagers
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly called ADHD, affects approximately 3 to 5 percent of adolescents in the United States. Adolescents affected with the condition usually struggle in the areas of academic performance, behavioral disturbance and social issues. There are many resources for adolescents with ADHD. If left untreated, adolescents with the condition may be more vulnerable to at risk behavior and drug or alcohol abuse.
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Symptoms of inattention in adolescents include poor listening skills, trouble focusing on one thing at a time, poor task completion, forgetfulness, distracted easily, avoidance of tasks, poor organizational skills and may frequently lose things or make several mistakes on work. These symptoms must be significant enough to interfere with the teen' s level of functioning in order to make the diagnosis of ADHD.
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Symptoms of hyperactivity in adolescents include problems with hyperactivity that persist across multiple settings. The symptoms may include trouble sitting still, talking when silence is expected, difficulties remaining seated in the classroom, complaints of feeling restless and frequent movement. These symptoms must be significant enough to interfere with the teen' s level of functioning to make the diagnosis of ADHD.
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Symptoms of impulsivity in adolescents include problems with impulsive behavior that persist across multiple settings. The symptoms may include talking out loud in class, blurting out answers without raising a hand, acting without thinking ahead, poor organization and planning and interrupting frequently into other people's conversations. These symptoms must be significant enough to interfere with the teen' s level of functioning in order to make the diagnosis of ADHD.
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Diagnosis of ADHD in adolescents may begin with concerns from school professionals regarding academic performance or behavioral issues. Parents may seek help from outpatient providers including primary care physicians, therapists, psychologists and/or psychiatrists. Typically, parents find these providers through personal referrals or health plans. Physicians or mental health professionals may make a diagnosis of ADHD based on a student's self-report, structured interview of the student and sometimes use psychological assessments and checklists to gather more data from teachers or parents.
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Treatment of ADHD in adolescents may include outpatient counseling and/or intervention with stimulant medication. A combination of both types of treatment is most effective. Counseling may be provided by a therapist or other type of mental health professional. Stimulant medication is prescribed by physicians. Side effects may include loss of appetite, weight changes, poor sleep or aggressive behavior. Monthly visits to the physician who prescribes the medication is imperative.
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