What is puberty like for teens with ADHD?
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms typically begin in childhood. However, as children enter early adolescence, these symptoms may become more obvious, as puberty presents its own set of obstacles. The overlap between these experiences can be challenging for both teenagers and their parents.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which means it is caused by variations in brain activity and chemistry. That distinguishes it from illnesses like anxiety and depression, which can be triggered by life events such as sorrow, change, and low self-esteem. People with ADHD have difficulty focusing and paying attention, organizing themselves, and/or feeling impulsive. However, they may be more competent at creative thinking skills and be able to be ‘in the moment’.
Learn more about ADHD and how it can influence your teen by reading our factsheet.
What is puberty like for teenagers with ADHD?
Sometimes a child’s ADHD symptoms change during their adolescence. ADHD is frequently diagnosed around puberty because the symptoms may become more visible and difficult to manage. Puberty can be difficult for any youngster due to the physical and emotional changes it brings. It can be especially challenging for a teen with ADHD, who may struggle with emotional management. Puberty can exacerbate their mental and behavioural problems. Hormonal fluctuations can worsen ADHD symptoms. During puberty, children with ADHD may exhibit symptoms such as irritability, intense emotional reactivity, depression, mood swings, and early signs of substance abuse.
Anxiety and panic are examples of mood disorders
Puberty-related hormonal changes are also linked to greater risk-taking behaviour. Children with ADHD may feel a stronger desire to ‘fit in’ since they have struggled at school and with their peers. This could indicate that when kids reach adolescence, they are significantly more vulnerable to peer pressure and may make rash judgments. Read our factsheet to discover more about puberty and how it affects teenagers who are experiencing it.
How might puberty influence ADHD treatment?
Teenagers may find the changes that follow puberty perplexing and upsetting. They only want to fit in with their classmates. Many children with ADHD who previously took their medication without complaint may begin to protest and rebel because they do not want to be singled out or perceived as different from others. Some ADHD youth report experiencing different side effects during puberty, or that their medicine appears to be ineffective. Your teen’s pediatrician or ADHD expert can help address these concerns and recommend choices that may be appropriate for your teen. The good news is that many kids with ADHD recover dramatically following puberty, and many no longer require medication.
ADHD and Other Mental Health Conditions
Because your teen is experiencing so many physical, mental, and hormonal changes at this time, it can be difficult to determine what is normal for puberty and what is not. People who have ADHD are more likely to get another mental health disorder. During puberty, your teen may experience mental health issues including anxiety and depression for the first time. These illnesses may have symptoms that overlap with ADHD. This means that one can be mistaken for the other. However, if your teen has symptoms of ADHD and one of these diseases, they may find life especially difficult. Learn more about ways to help your teen with depression and other mental health issues.
How to help your teen with ADHD and puberty.
Here are some tips to assist your teen manage their ADHD symptoms during puberty: Be patient while your teen faces challenges. If your teen’s ADHD symptoms cause him or her to engage in harmful habits or behaviour, it may take a long time to modify. If you interact with them in a caring, supporting manner, they are more likely to feel encouraged and inspired to work on their habits. Find out how you can assist your teen manage their ADHD symptoms.m Ask without being judgmental. For example, rather than blaming your kid of not taking their prescription on purpose, ask them why. Listen to them, address their issues, and work out a solution that works for both of you. If you’re unsure whether your teen’s behavior is typical of puberty or exacerbated by ADHD, you could consult with their expert. Validate your teen’s viewpoint, even if you disagree with it. What is trivial to you as an adult may seem all-consuming to your teen. Your youngster should feel as if you are on their side. Listen to their frustrations without offering answers, unless they request your suggestions or recommendations. Help your teen establish excellent eating, sleeping, and exercise habits. Encourage your teen to enhance their general well-being by eating correctly, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly, so that they can cope better with life’s challenges and stresses. Celebrate the positive aspects of your teen’s ADHD. Having ADHD or suffering ADHD symptoms is not always a negative thing. Help your teen recognize their strengths. Create family activities to celebrate your teen and embrace all aspects of their individuality.
