Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder in children and teens. More than 6 million youth have been diagnosed in the U.S. to date. The rate of diagnoses is rising, too, in part due to increased awareness among parents about the condition and what signs and symptoms to look for.
ADHD is a neurodivergent condition that first appears in childhood – and lasts throughout adulthood. There is no cure, but treatment (often, a combination of therapy and medication)can successfully control ADHD symptoms, so those diagnosed with the condition can thrive.
Signs & Symptoms of ADHD in Teens
ADHD can look different from person to person, depending on age and gender. The more aware everyone is about how ADHD can present differently in different people, the more likely it is that those affected can get the care they need, so day-to-day life can be more pleasant and productive for themselves and their loved ones.
How ADHD May Appear in Your Teen
- Easily Distracted. A teen with ADHD may not be able to stick with a task through completion. Often, careless mistakes are the result. They might describe it as becoming bored easily. They may find it difficult to listen until another is finished speaking, and they may often interrupt or talk too much in conversations. It can also lead to misplacing common items, such as keys, wallets, or homework.
- Apparent Restlessness. You may notice physical restlessness in a teen with ADHD. This can appear as fidgeting, bouncing a leg, tapping a foot while seated, pacing while on the phone, or other types of repetitive physical movement. Research has found that these types of actions may actually help a child or teen with ADHD improve their concentration and focus.
- This may be particularly noticeable in teens with ADHD more than in adults with ADHD. Difficulty resisting temptation can lead to poor decisions and potentially harmful situations.
- Poor Sleep. If a teen with ADHD isn’t aware of or doesn’t disclose problems going to sleep or staying asleep, others in the family may notice it show up as daytime sleepiness or difficulty waking up in the morning. Restless leg syndrome, a type of sleep disorder, is also common among children and teens with ADHD.
- Difficulty Regulating Emotions. Teenagers with ADHD may be particularly prone to emotional outbursts when frustrated, hurt, angry, or criticized. These teens may have difficulty controlling their emotions, leading to dramatic displays in inappropriate settings.
- Disregard for Others’ Points of View. Teens with ADHD may have difficulty learning social cues – and thus, may not be able to identify the perspective or point of view of others. This may be seen as the inability to take turns, wait for others, or simply understand what others need or want. This can lead to difficulty making or keeping friends.
ADHD in Boys vs. Girls
Boys are nearly twice as likely as girls to be diagnosed with ADHD. Studies find that this may be because symptoms in girls are more subtle and tend to be overlooked by parents and caretakers.
For example, a teenage girl with ADHD may appear withdrawn or cry easily as a result of being unable to regulate their emotions. Excessive talking is another common way ADHD appears in girls more so than in boys. It may show up as compulsive speech, regularly interrupting others, or changing topics multiple times in a conversation. Very often, these behaviors aren’t adjusted in response to the usual social cues.
So, while a teenage boy with ADHD may be openly defiant, physically restless, and prone to emotional outbursts, a teenage girl with ADHD may only appear distant and distracted. It’s no wonder ADHD is more “noticeable” in boys – although, going to a qualified ADHD healthcare provider can help make sure your child, boy or girl, is properly diagnosed and treated.
Why an ADHD Diagnosis Can Be Challenging
No single teenager will have every sign and symptom associated with ADHD. Sometimes, the ADHD signs and symptoms a teen displays may in fact indicate another condition – such as anxiety, dyslexia, or depression – which may require an altogether different treatment approach.
Self-diagnosing is never a good idea. Always go to an expert when it comes to your child’s mental health. Mental health experts have the education, training, and experience to pinpoint symptoms of ADHD with ease and accurately diagnose patients.
Diagnosis & Treatment of ADHD in Teens in Denver and Lakewood, CO
Think your teen may have ADHD? The best thing you can do for them is to contact a reputable ADHD healthcare specialist, like the team at Denver Wellness Associates. We can help identify whether your teen has ADHD or something else. Contact us in Denver or Lakewood, Colorado, by calling or texting (720) 724-3668 or emailing info@denverwellness.com. You can also request an appointment now.
