ADD and ADHD are typically associated with symptoms that characterize these conditions in children and teens. There are some differences, however, across ages. Parents can help teens by being aware of and anticipating these unique challenges, and by providing the comprehensive, customized care characteristic of functional neurology.
Kids and teens face different expectations and experiences in school, in their social lives and at home. Children encounter more structure and supervision in life compared to teens, while teens face increasing demands and expectations. Peer groups and friends often have more influence as adolescents age than teachers, parents and other authority figures. This is a natural reflection of a teenager’s need to explore and develop their independence.
Specific challenges teens with ADHD may face include greater pressure to achieve or maintain good grades—and to do so more independently. Hyperactivity may become less of a struggle as children age, but difficulties with organization and attention can interfere with the ability to do well academically under increasing pressure.
ADHD often involves difficulties with social skills that are essential to forming and keeping friendships. Teens who have ADHD may have few friends, or continue or begin to struggle with issues involving bullying as well as rejection by peers.
Being a teenager can be a rough time emotionally under even the best circumstances, but this is especially the case for teens with ADHD. Trying to control emotions can be very difficult, and impulsivity can lead to explosions that affect relationships negatively. Studies show that ADHD teens tend to start using alcohol, tobacco and other drugs at an earlier age than others. Higher rates of risky behavior may also involve sexual activity at an earlier age.
With so much at stake, it’s important to get the very best possible support for teens with ADHD. As a parent, you don’t have to trust your child’s well being to a pill. There’s much more you can do than simply make sure she takes her medication. Staying involved with your teen, providing access to therapists and support from professionals who can help with specific challenges can make a substantial difference.
You can also seek out therapeutic support from a functional neurologist who is trained to help individuals with ADHD or ADD. A functional neurologist can determine exactly what is going on with your teen’s condition through in-depth, comprehensive testing. Imbalances that are affecting brain function or her metabolic system can be identified and addressed safely and naturally through targeted therapeutic support. You can help your teen feel better, minimize symptoms, and provide her with the benefit of a long-term solution to the challenges ADHD presents. Customized care and support that is based on improving or restoring function can make a tremendous difference for your teen academically and socially.