Understanding Teenage ADHD

 Teens with ADHD may be impulsive, risk-taking, immature in judgment, and thrill-seeking. All of these traits makeADHD treatment program accidents and serious injuries more likely. In adolescence, some symptoms of ADHD, particularly those related to hyperactivity, can be a little more subtle. However, the difficulties that children experience as a result of ADHD symptoms, such as poor school performance and impulse control, may intensify when they are teens due to increased demands and expectations for independent functioning.

Teens with ADHD typically have difficulty foreseeing long-term consequences which oftentimes gets them into trouble. They are more likely to be heavy drinkers and three times more likely to abuse drugs other than marijuana. An ADHD treatment program for those suffering more intensely from these symptoms could help your child avoid experimentation with and addiction to drugs.

Causes Of Teen ADHD

The cause of teen ADHD is unknown. It is not usually linked to problems at home or at school. While poor parenting or stress from school are not factors, they may still cause additional difficulties for teens with ADHD. Researchers currently believe the most likely causes for teen ADHD are neurological imbalances and genetics.

Our ADHD treatment program at Ascend seeks to help your teen understand their mental health better and teaches them healthy ways to cope with stress and pressure.

ADHD Signs & Symptoms 

Is your child struggling with ADHD? Look for some of the most common signs and symptoms including:

  • Trouble paying close attention or making careless mistakes
  • Does not seem to be listening when directly spoken to
  • Avoids or fails to follow through on instructions or to finish tasks (including homework)
  • Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
  • Often avoids or dislikes tasks that require sustained attention
  • Frequently loses things needed to perform tasks or activities
  • A tendency to get distracted easily
  • Often forgetful or inattentive
  • Tends to fidget
  • Has trouble staying seated when doing so is necessary or expected
  • Trouble engaging in activities quietly
  • May feel restless or easily bored
  • May talk excessively
  • Often blurts out answers or interrupts others impulsively
  • Frequently has trouble waiting his or her turn during activities

While the symptoms may begin small, they won’t stay unnoticed forever. Help your child overcome these difficulties through Ascend Healthcare’s ADHD treatment program.

 Risks For Prescription Drug Addiction 

Once diagnosed, ADHD treatment for teens is typically managed through prescription medications like Adderall, Ritalin, and Concerta. Unfortunately, prescription drugs are among the most commonly abused by teens. While your child may have started taking ADHD prescriptions for their condition, it can quickly transform into recreational use and then addiction.

ADHD medications can affect the way your brain works, especially when they’re taken over an extended period of time. Your child might find that it becomes harder for them to feel good without using the drug and may experience intense cravings. It’s important to work with a doctor to monitor the dosage and use to ensure that your child is benefiting from their medications with as little risk as possible. At Ascend, our clinicians can offer the support you need as your child begins taking medication.

ADHD Treatment Program at Ascend Healthcare 

The residential ADHD treatment options at Ascend offer a comprehensive curriculum that utilizes a number of different therapeutic modalities including clinical therapies and experiential therapies. We strive to meet your child where they are and communicate to them the importance of completing our ADHD treatment program to reach their full potential. With better coping mechanisms and a supportive family structure, ADHD is manageable.

Learn more about the residential ADHD treatment at Ascend when you reach out to our admissions team at 310.388.3713.