What Does ADHD in Teens Look Like?
ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder among children and can have lasting impact through adolescence. Notable signs include:
- Hyperactivity and impulsivity
- Inability to focus
- Restlessness and disorganization
- Careless mistakes
- Difficulty following instructions
- Forgetfulness
ADHD in teens may also present with low self-esteem, poor social skills, and mood swings. When these behaviors are constant and interfere with daily life, seeking specialized teen ADHD treatment becomes important.
What Causes ADHD in Teens and Young Adults?
Researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to ADHD development:
- Family history – ADHD has a strong genetic component and is more likely to appear in individuals with a family history of the condition.
- Brain chemistry – Differences in how neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine are released and processed may contribute to ADHD symptoms.
- Brain structure – Imaging shows that teens with ADHD sometimes have different activation patterns in the prefrontal cortex, which manages impulse control and focus.
Adolescent ADHD Treatment: What’s Available?
Because ADHD often exists alongside other conditions like anxiety or mood disorders, we provide thorough testing to diagnose issues accurately. The most successful adolescent ADHD treatment combines medication and therapy.
Talk Therapy
Talk therapy helps your teen understand how to function while coping with ADHD challenges. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) assists teens in building healthy relationships, managing emotions, and preparing for their future.
Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and amphetamines activate brain areas that support focus and attention. Teens who receive proper ADHD treatment with medication tend to experience less substance abuse than those without treatment.
Stress Management
Teaching stress management is crucial. We incorporate yoga, meditation, sports, music, and art to help teens find healthy ways to calm down and focus.
The Teen ADHD Treatment Program at Paradigm
We help teens recognize behaviors and thoughts that may be problematic, especially when ADHD occurs alongside conditions like depression, anxiety, or OCD. Our ADHD programs for young adults focus on developing skills for independent living and professional success.
Our therapists help teens become more self-aware and learn to speak and act with greater self-control. These skills are practiced through individual and group therapy sessions in safe, comfortable settings with highly skilled staff.
Treatment starts with medical evaluation and psychological testing. From there, we develop a customized plan that addresses your teen’s unique needs. Reach out to our team to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teen ADHD Treatment
Teen ADHD treatment at Paradigm combines evidence-based therapies, medication management when appropriate, and skill-building activities. Our residential programs provide structured routines, therapy sessions, academic support, and family involvement in a low-stress environment.
Treatment length varies based on individual needs and symptom severity. At Paradigm, residential stays typically range from 30 to 90 days. We work with each family to determine the appropriate duration.
We use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) techniques, family therapy, and social skills training. We also incorporate experiential therapies like art, music, and recreational activities.
Medication is often an important component, though it’s always combined with therapy. Our psychiatrists conduct thorough evaluations and carefully monitor any prescribed stimulant medications.
Yes. Teens can transition to our young adult programs or we connect families with ADHD treatment centers for adults and community resources to ensure continuity of care.
It depends on symptom severity and co-occurring disorders. Residential treatment is particularly effective when ADHD is paired with substance use, depression, or suicidal ideation, providing round-the-clock professional care.