If your teenager who used to be focused and organized starts having trouble paying attention, you might wonder if your child can develop ADHD as a teenager. Many parents wonder about this. In this blog post, we’ll discuss ADHD in teenagers, clear up some misunderstandings, and give helpful tips to support your neurodivergent kids. So let’s learn more about this important topic together.
Table of Contents
What is ADHD?
Before answering the main question, remember what ADHD is. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a condition that makes it hard for people to pay attention, sit still, and think before they act. Both kids and adults can have ADHD. People with ADHD might have trouble in school, at work, or with friends.
There are three types of ADHD: inattentive type, hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type. Each type has different symptoms, but all of them can make life challenging for those who have it.
Customize visual schedules that teach kids independence. No more nagging, no more stress.
Can You Develop ADHD as a Teenager?
The quick answer is no; you can’t develop ADHD as a teenager. But sometimes, people don’t find out they have ADHD until they are teenagers or even grown-ups. A person must have had symptoms before 12 years old to be diagnosed with ADHD. But sometimes, these symptoms become more noticeable when a person is a teenager because school and friends become more demanding.
There are several reasons why some kids might not get diagnosed with ADHD until they are teenagers:
- Not-so-obvious symptoms: Some kids with ADHD have symptoms that are hard to see. These symptoms might not cause problems until the kids become teenagers.
- Wrong diagnosis: Sometimes, doctors think ADHD is something else, like anxiety or learning problems.
- Finding ways to cope: Kids might find ways to deal with their ADHD symptoms. These ways can hide ADHD until being a teenager makes it harder to keep up.
Read More: Goally for Teens
How to Spot ADHD in Teenagers
As a parent, you should know the signs of ADHD in teenagers. Here are some things to watch for:
- Having trouble paying attention
- Making decisions without thinking and taking risks
- Being restless and not able to sit still
- Being disorganized and not good at managing time
- Forgetting things and losing stuff often
- Having mood swings and getting upset easily
If you see these signs in your teenager, talk to a doctor for a check-up and diagnosis. Getting a proper evaluation is essential because other conditions can have similar symptoms. The earlier you identify ADHD, the sooner you can start helping your teenager.
Read more: How to Help a Teenager with ADHD in School
Helping Your Teenager with ADHD
Kids with thinking and learning differences do well with routines. Make a daily plan that includes time for homework, chores, meals, and fun. This plan can help your teenager use their time better and feel less stressed.
| Morning Routine | Afternoon Routine | Evening Routine |
|---|---|---|
| Wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast | Finish school, do homework | Eat dinner, do chores, relax |
| Brush teeth, pack lunch | Participate in extracurricular activities | Take a shower, get ready for bed |
Customize visual schedules that teach kids independence. No more nagging, no more stress.
Talk and Listen
Remember, opening up lines of communication is key. Let your teen know it’s okay to chat about their struggles – the big ones and the small ones. The power of listening, really listening, can’t be understated. It reassures them they’re not alone, especially if they’re questioning “Can you develop ADHD?”
So, why not set up a judgement-free zone? Encourage them to spill out their feelings, frustrations, and fears. This way, they know their voice matters, and that you’re there, fully engaged and ready to support them, ADHD or not.
Read more: Free Printable Teenage Behavior Charts
Work with Teachers and School Staff
Talk to your teenager’s teachers and school staff to ensure they get the needed help. Working together can make school a better place for your neurodivergent child. Some possible accommodations for students with ADHD include:
- Extra time on tests
- Seating near the teacher
- Breaks during class
- Visual aids and organizers
Get Help from Experts
If your teenager has a hard time with ADHD, consider getting help from a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. These experts can give you and your teenager good advice and support. They can also teach your teenager coping strategies to help them manage their ADHD symptoms more effectively.
Try Goally For Your Child With ADHD
Goally helps kids with ADHD stay focused and build skills. Unlike a Kindle or an iPad that kids get easily distracted on, Goally has no YouTube, no social media, no web browser, and especially no ads.
Goally uses game play as a points-based motivator for your kiddo with ADHD and helps them learn emotional regulation skills. It’s simple to set up and has an expert-informed design.
What We Learned: ADHD in Teenagers
So, you can’t develop ADHD as a teenager, but sometimes the symptoms become more obvious during this time. By knowing the signs of ADHD and giving the right help, you can support your neurodivergent kids as they face the challenges of being a teenager. And remember, you’re not alone – there are people and resources to help you and your teenager every step of the way.
FAQs About Developing ADHD as a Teenager
Can you develop ADHD in your teenage years? ADHD is generally recognized as a developmental disorder, typically diagnosed in childhood. However, it may not be identified until the teenage years or even adulthood in some individuals due to various factors such as symptom presentation or lack of early screening.
What are the symptoms of ADHD in teenagers? Teenagers with ADHD may display symptoms such as difficulty focusing, impulsivity, disorganization, restlessness, and difficulty completing tasks.
Can ADHD symptoms change or worsen during adolescence? Yes, ADHD symptoms can change during adolescence. The hyperactivity often associated with childhood ADHD may decrease, while challenges with attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning may become more noticeable.
How is ADHD diagnosed in teenagers? ADHD in teenagers is diagnosed through a comprehensive evaluation that includes clinical interviews, behavior ratings, and observations, as well as ruling out other potential causes of symptoms.
Can lifestyle changes help manage ADHD symptoms in teenagers? Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, engaging in regular physical activity, and having a healthy diet, can play a significant role in managing ADHD symptoms in teenagers.
“This post was originally published on 04/26/2023. It was updated on 10/13/2023.
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