An effective treatment plan for adolescents with ADHD centers on ongoing education about potential challenges and interventions and incorporates the following components:
If pursuing college or vocational training, teens and young adults with ADHD must be prepared to seek out appropriate accommodations and support services. Many accommodations available in educational settings, such as extended time for tests and access to writing and math tutoring centers, can be invaluable.The importance of developing self-help skills cannot be overstated during this transition period. Caregivers should help instill healthy habits – such as adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress management – early in adolescence and regularly check in with the young adult to ensure these habits are maintained. Teens will also need to learn how to independently create structure and, if receiving certain medications, how to study during periods of medication coverage.
Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment approach that improves ADHD symptoms and overall self-management. In this therapy, patients learn to compensate for residual symptoms and develop an understanding of their thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors, as well as the consequences of these patterns. Both group and individual CBT modalities can be helpful for young people with ADHD.
While not a cure-all, medications can be beneficial for managing ADHD symptoms. Stimulants are typically the first-line treatments, followed by non-stimulants, antidepressants, and other empirically based medications. The patient and clinician should work together to reduce target symptoms.To ensure medical adherence, clinicians and parents can suggest reminder systems at home or offer information on engagement programs designed to boost independence and self-advocacy, which may help reduce negative feelings toward medication.
