Mastery University Adolescent Mental Health Centre

Is Your Teen Struggling? Recognizing the Warning Signs of ADHD in Adolescents

As a parent, you’ve always known your child. But as they enter the teen years, you might find yourself asking, “Is this just normal teen behavior, or is something more going on?” The adolescent years are a time of immense change, but for some, the struggles are more than just a phase. They could be warning signs of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

ADHD is not a new problem; it’s a strongly inherited neuro-developmental illness, and it’s not uncommon for parents to recognize their own lifelong struggles with focus or impulsivity once their child receives a diagnosis. This understanding can be a powerful tool in helping your teen navigate their own journey. The Warning Signs of ADHD in Adolescents are not that easy to spot and misdiagnosis is rife in schools, doctors rooms and of course when people google diagnose as well.

According to science with regards to the Warning Signs of ADHD in Adolescents, ADHD is a persistent pattern of three core symptoms: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which are often accompanied by behavioral, cognitive, emotional, and social challenges.

There are three types of ADHD: predominantly inattentive (often referred to as ADD), predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, or a combined type. The way these symptoms manifest can change with age, making them look different in teens than in younger children.

Inattention in the Teen Years

In the academic world of high school, inattention can be a major roadblock. It’s often more present in young women with ADHD, and can manifest as:

• Difficulty sustaining focus on schoolwork or chores, leading to missed assignments and poor grades.
• Wandering off tasks during homework or study sessions.
• Lacking persistence on projects, giving up easily when faced with a challenge.
• Paralyzing procrastination, putting off tasks until the last minute, causing immense stress.
• Poor time management, underestimating the time needed for projects and extracurriculars.
• Being disorganized, with a messy room, backpack, or locker, and frequently losing important items.

Hyperactivity in Adolescents

While hyperactivity in younger children is often physical, in teens it can become more internalized and manifest as restlessness. It may look like:

• Excessive fidgeting, tapping, or talkativeness during class or family meals.
• Extreme restlessness or an internal feeling of being “on edge” and unable to relax.
• Feeling overscheduled and overwhelmed by a busy calendar of sports, clubs, and social events.
• Being a workaholic or taking on too many responsibilities to channel a need for constant activity.

Impulsivity and Its Impact

Impulsivity as one of The Warning Signs of ADHD in Adolescents refers to making hasty actions without thinking them through. For a teen, this can have serious consequences, impacting their future and well-being. It may translate into:

• Poor management of personal finances, such as spending money impulsively or not saving up for goals.
• Difficulty with interpersonal relationships, leading to strained friendships due to blurting out thoughts or interrupting.
• Unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases due to engaging in risky behaviors without forethought.
• Reckless driving, putting themselves and others in danger.
• Possible substance abuse or other addiction issues, including internet addiction or compulsive gaming.

Research also notes associated symptoms like mood swings, temper outbursts, and sleep and appetite disturbances, which can be particularly challenging for both the teen and their family.

Recognizing The Warning Signs of ADHD in Adolescents is the first step. If you see these patterns in your teen, know that you are not alone, and there is support available. Inpatient mental health programs, like those offered during a gap year, can provide a structured, supportive environment for teens and young adults to get a proper diagnosis and learn the tools they need to thrive. These programs can help them gain control over their symptoms, build resilience, and develop the life skills necessary to navigate adulthood successfully, helping them to heal and start life with an advantage.

The Warning Signs of ADHD in Adolescents are treated so effectively at our Center for Healing and Life Transformation in South Africa. The Center is holistic and completely private and functions as a home away from home. It is a wonderful alternative to rehabs or institutions used in the past that no longer serve many people today as a good enough solution to depression, anxiety, trauma, burnout, failure to launch and so many other issues. For 15 years the Center’s specialised team has helped people’s sons and daughters radically heal from mental health and emotional health issues. The creation of our Mastery University program is specialised as the ultimate way to get people to the forefront of their lives when school and university weren’t viable options.