How to Parent a Teen with ADHD
Parenting a child with ADHD can be challenging, especially when they aren’t fully able to express what they’re feeling or really understand why they struggle with certain things.
But, when you have a teenager with ADHD, there are often even more unique challenges to address.
Whether your teen was recently diagnosed or you’re trying to navigate their life changes while keeping their ADHD symptoms under control, it’s important to have strategies in place that can help.
Let’s cover a few of those strategies to make life easier for both of you.
1. Keep Learning
If your teenager was recently diagnosed with ADHD, the best thing you can do is educate yourself on the disorder.
Many people have misconceptions about ADHD and some of the common symptoms. It’s often more nuanced than you might think.
ADHD is more than just someone having a hard time paying attention. It deals with emotions, time management, relationships, and more.
For teens, especially, ADHD can be difficult because they’ve reached a stage of life where they want to be more independent. However, they still need a lot of support.
That kind of clashing can be hard to manage.
Educating yourself on the common symptoms and learning directly from your teen can help you feel more empowered to serve in their support system and to give them the help and guidance they need.
2. Build Positive Connections
Because teenagers tend to want more independence, they might start to push back when you offer your help or support.
Unfortunately, the more stressed and alone they feel, the worse their symptoms can become.
Do what you can to foster healthy, strong, positive connections with your teen while giving them a taste of the independence they deserve.
What’s something you both enjoy doing and how can you do it together?
Maybe it’s cooking dinner once or twice a week together, playing instruments, or playing board games.
These small bonding moments can go a long way in strengthening your emotional bond.
They can also help your teenager to realize their strengths rather than allowing them to focus on their weaknesses.
Try to do things they enjoy, and it can be a boost to their self-esteem.
3. Work With Teachers
It’s not uncommon for teens with ADHD to struggle with academics.
They might lose focus easily or feel pressured when they’re under time constraints.
Try working with their teachers to discuss certain accommodations that might help them succeed.
That might include taking tests in a different location without distractions, allowing more time for things, or offering additional academic support.
Your teen might also benefit academically and socially from joining different groups, clubs, or other extracurricular activities at school.
These things can give them a greater sense of purpose. They’ll recognize their unique skills and have built-in support systems for every activity.
4. Take Care of Yourself
Don’t forget to practice self-care and show yourself compassion as you navigate parenting a teen with ADHD.
Some days will be harder than others, so be kind to yourself.
Prioritize sleep, healthy eating, and taking care of your mental health.
Try mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress and stay grounded.
The better you feel — emotionally, physically, and mentally — the more you’ll be able to give your teen exactly what they need to succeed.
5. Reach Out for Help
Remember that you don’t need to navigate these waters alone.
Again, parenting a teen with ADHD isn’t always easy.
While leaning on friends and family for help is a great start, don’t hesitate to talk to a mental health professional if you or your teen are struggling.
Therapy can help your teen better understand their ADHD and the emotions that can stem from it.
They’ll learn how to manage their mental well-being and strategies that can help with some of the symptoms.
If you want to learn more or set up an appointment for yourself or your teenager, feel free to contact me today.