Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects the brain’s ability to focus and control impulses and is one of the most common mental disorders that children experience. It can also continue into adulthood.
Early signs and symptoms
ADHD shows up first in childhood, sometimes as early as age 3. It’s not unusual for children to be energetic, act impulsively, and have trouble focusing from time to time. But for children with ADHD, these behaviors are persistent and can be disruptive to both the child and those around them.
The most common symptoms of childhood ADHD are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. These symptoms can show up in different ways—for example, not all children with ADHD appear hyperactive. ADHD may also look different in one setting compared to another (such as at home versus at school).
Children with ADHD may:
- Have trouble paying attention to details, following directions, or staying focused on tasks
- Be easily distracted by their own thoughts or by things happening around them
- Seem fidgety or restless or struggle to engage in quiet activities
- Act impulsively—for example, by interrupting others often
- Hyperfocus on activities that are interesting or meaningful to them (often to the point of being unable to shift focus to something else)
These symptoms can affect a child’s relationships with their families and with other children. They can also affect a child’s performance in school and their overall well-being.
Navigating ADHD in the teenage years
As children with ADHD enter adolescence, their symptoms can change. Pressure at school, relationships with peers, increasing responsibilities, and hormonal changes can all influence ADHD in new ways.
Challenges with paying attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning in teenagers can result in:
- Poor time management and organizational skills
- Difficulty prioritizing tasks and completing assignments on time
- Trouble managing emotions and dealing with frustration
- Risky or impulsive behaviors (such as substance use or unprotected sex)
Like in childhood, ADHD can affect teenagers’ social relationships, self-esteem, and performance in school. Teenagers with ADHD may also experience mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
Learn more about ADHD in children and teens.
Supporting young people with ADHD
The right treatment, support, and coping strategies can help young people with ADHD at each stage of their development.
Building a strong foundation
Here are some ways parents, teachers, and other caregivers can help young people navigate ADHD from childhood through adolescence.
- Structure and routine. Children with ADHD thrive on predictability. Set a consistent schedule and stick to it as much as possible. This provides a sense of stability and helps them stay on track.
- Clear communication. Use clear, simple, direct language to explain rules and expectations.
- Coping strategies. Teach them skills for managing emotions, staying organized, and reducing stress. Help them break overwhelming tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
- Positive reinforcement. Instead of criticizing “bad” behaviors, focus on positive and productive ones. Reinforcing these actions with praise and rewards will help children replace negative or unhelpful behaviors with more positive ones.
- School support. Individualized training and support that build organizational, social, and behavioral skills can help young people with ADHD survive—and thrive—at school. So can accommodations such as extra time on tests or assignments. Talk to your child’s school about what options are available.
- Seek professional help. Mental health professionals offer therapy, education, and support to help young people manage ADHD. They can also help parents of children with ADHD learn about the disorder, develop new skills, and connect with other parents in similar situations.
Navigating the teenage years
Puberty can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, making it harder for teenagers to stay focused, remember things, and manage their emotions. Be patient and understanding and let them know you’re there to help. Encourage them to develop coping mechanisms and explore different activities to discover their strengths.
Parents, teachers, peers, and families can use these additional strategies to support and empower teenagers who are dealing with ADHD.
- Enable self-advocacy. Help them identify when they need support and learn how to ask for help. This will empower them to navigate future challenges confidently and independently.
- Encourage positive relationships with peers. Encourage them to participate in activities where they can meet new people and make friends. Supportive friends can help teenagers with ADHD feel more connected and less isolated.
- Discover strengths. Provide lots of opportunities for teens with ADHD to explore different activities and interests. Help them discover their unique talents and build confidence in their abilities.
- Seek professional help. As with younger children, therapists and other mental health professionals can help teenagers with ADHD develop effective skills to manage their symptoms now and as they grow older.
At any age, the ADHD journey starts with getting the right diagnosis. But it doesn’t stop there! Learn more about ADHD and how to support people of all ages who have it.
