Attention deficit disorder, more commonly known as ADD, is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions in teens. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), millions of children and teens in the United States have been diagnosed with ADD. Additionally, according to a 2016 study, 60 percent of teens with ADD symptoms also had at least one other mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder.
However, ADD is not always a simple or straightforward condition to diagnose. There are several symptoms of this mental health condition and your teen may not always express all of them. Additionally, some may be common characteristics of young people. Hyperactivity, for example, is common in children and teens who are usually bursting with energy. But hyperactivity is also one of the most common symptoms of ADHD. So how could a parent know the difference?
Here, we’re taking a closer look at ADD in teens and identifying 7 common symptoms of this health condition. By being able to identify common symptoms, you’ll be able to better help your child or teen understand and then work through this condition—enabling them to lead a happy and healthy life.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ADD AND ADHD
Many people may use these two acronyms interchangeably, but this is incorrect. While they do share similarities, they are two distinct mental health conditions. ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurological disorder that is often diagnosed in children but then often lasts through adulthood. Children and teens with ADHD often have trouble focusing, staying still, completing tasks, or controlling impulsive behaviors.
There are three primary types of ADHD:
1. Predominantly inattentive presentation.
This type causes individuals to be easily distracted, forget details or routines, and make it especially challenging to organize or complete a task.
2. Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation.
This type is characterized by hyperactive impulses. These teens will have trouble sitting still, staying on task, or wait their turn. Children with this condition may run around constantly and act impulsively. Fidgeting and talking a lot are common symptoms for this type of ADHD.
3. Combined presentation.
The third type of ADHD, as the name suggests, is a combination of predominantly inattentive and predominantly hyperactive-impulsive. Symptoms of both types will be present in the individual.
ADD, or attention deficit disorder, is a bit of an outdated term as medical professionals since the 1990s have begun using the ADHD classification. Still, however, ADD is a commonly used term in everyday vernacular. Primarily, ADD refers to individuals with predominantly inattentive symptoms.
SYMPTOMS OF ADHD AND ADD IN TEENS
Depending on the type and severity of their mental condition, teens may exhibit a variety of different symptoms. To help parents identify ADD or ADHD in their teens, it’s crucial to understand the warning signs and symptoms. Here are some of the most common symptoms of ADHD and ADD in teens:
1. Hyperactivity.
While most children and teens have high energy levels, those with ADD or ADHD often can’t control their energy. They may be constantly fidgeting, running around, talking excessively, or simply appear restless. Hyperactivity can make it especially challenging to do well in controlled environments, like school or a job.
2. Lack of focus.
Teens with this condition usually find it challenging to stay focused on one task or activity. They’ll constantly jump between tasks or topics, making it difficult to complete one thing. Like hyperactivity, this can make school particularly challenging.
3. Impulsivity.
Impulsive behavior is a common indicator of ADD or ADHD. Depending on the scenario, acting without thinking can lead to serious consequences.
4. Disorganization.
Staying organized is a challenge for teens with ADD. They may have trouble keeping up with schoolwork and other complex tasks. This may also be expressed as poor time management.
5. Poor concentration.
Teens with ADD have trouble concentrating, especially for long periods of time. This is particularly obvious in school or work settings.
6. Mood swings.
Hyperactivity and inattentiveness may lead to sudden mood swings. While mood swings are common in teens, these mood swings will often be more severe and more consistent for those with ADHD.
7. Poor working memory.
Teens with ADD or ADHD may have trouble with their working memory, which is the ability to work with information, and knowing what exactly to focus on.
TREATMENT FOR TEENS WITH ADD
There are several options available for treating teens with ADD or ADHD. If you believe your teen may be experiencing this disorder, it’s important to first sit down and have an honest and open discussion. Then you should contact a doctor to receive a professional diagnosis that can identify your teen’s exact medical condition. This can also be helpful to identify if there are any other emotional or behavioral conditions linked to their ADD.
To treat ADD in teens, there are two primary treatment options:
1. Psychotherapy.
Also known as talk therapy, this treatment option focuses on discussing the disorder and its symptoms with a therapist to identify issues and then work to develop better, healthier habits. Psychotherapy can be done individually with a therapist or even in a group setting, which can be effective for families.
2. Medication.
If therapy alone isn’t sufficient, a medical professional may prescribe medication to help your teen manage their ADD symptoms. Certain stimulant medications, including Adderall, Concerta, Dexedrine, and Focalin, are commonly prescribed to address ADD symptoms. While these drugs have proven effective, there are side effects that must be considered before beginning any of these medications. There are also non-stimulant medications available for those with ADD or ADHD.
CONCLUSION – WHAT ARE THE 9 SYMPTOMS OF ADD IN TEENS?
ADD and ADHD can be difficult conditions to diagnose in a teen. As a parent, how can you tell the difference between your teen being a little disorganized and moody versus having a diagnosable mental health condition? By understanding and being able to identify the full range of symptoms, you can better spot the warning signs of ADD.
If you believe your teen does have ADD or ADHD, you should first speak with a doctor. They can diagnose your teen and determine the best treatment option. Whether it’s psychotherapy, medication, or even teen residential treatment centers, there are several ways to help your teen manage their symptoms and lead a successful life.