Many adolescents are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). As a parent, it’s helpful to understand this condition so that you can be a helpful support for your teen. As a teen, it’s beneficial to know that there are strategies you can implement to increase your potential and manage your stress. Here are five things you should know about this diagnosis.
Featured image Antonio Guillem / Shutterstock
5 Things You Should Know About ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common diagnosis amongst adolescents. Here are five things you should know about this condition.
Photo by Rennett Stowe
1. What Causes ADHD?
There is no clear cause of ADHD. Experts suggest a few factors including genetics, the teen’s environment, changes in brain chemistry, brain injury, or nutrition that causes hyperactivity.
Photo by gaumphotos
2. Three Types of ADHD
There are three types of ADHD that your teen could be diagnosed with. Predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive and a combination of the two.
Photo by tdr28
3. Symptoms of ADHD
Some signs and symptoms of ADHD include being easily distracted, having high energy, inability to complete thoughts, daydreaming, confusion, struggling to follow instructions or difficulty sleeping.
Photo by martinak15
4. How to Cope With ADHD
A mental health professional might recommend several options for coping with ADHD including building a routine, setting manageable personal goals, asking for support at school, family counseling, individual therapy or group therapy. Some might also recommend taking medication.
Photo by Marco40134
5. Medication Options
A mental health professional might also recommend medication for your teen’s ADHD. Two categories that might be prescribed are stimulants (which often have fast results) or non-stimulants (which often have slower results but fewer side effects).
Photo by Artist in doing nothing.
