Understanding Your ADHD Teen
In this week’s Let’s all Talk Mental Health session, we were joined by Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Dr Sarah-Jane Knight. We talked to her about understanding and supporting teenagers with ADHD, whether they've been previously diagnosed or you’re simply noticing challenges with focus, impulsivity, or social interactions. Understanding how ADHD affects your adolescent is the first step toward offering meaningful support.
What is ADHD and How Does it Show up in Teens?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition present from birth. It’s characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity. In teenagers, these traits can sometimes be mistaken for typical adolescent behaviour, but, unlike the occasional distraction or restlessness common in this age group, ADHD symptoms tend to be consistent and can interfere with daily life - academically, socially, and emotionally.
Many teens with ADHD may not have been diagnosed in childhood, especially if they were able to manage well when demands were lower. As schoolwork becomes more complex and social expectations increase in the teen years, it's normal that signs of ADHD might become more noticeable.
The Academic Impact
Dr Sarah-Jane explained how one of the most visible challenges teens with ADHD face is in the classroom. It's not a question of ability, as many of these young people are bright and capable, but difficulties with focus, following through on tasks, and managing time can hold them back. This can be frustrating for teens, especially when they’re trying hard but still falling behind, which may lead to low self-esteem or feeling misunderstood by teachers.
Simple, thoughtful changes in the learning environment, such as offering movement breaks, using checklists, and providing quiet, low-distraction workspaces, can make a big difference.
Social Struggles and Self-Esteem
Sarah-Jane talked about how ADHD can also impact social relationships. Impulsive behaviour might result in teens blurting things out, interrupting, or misreading social cues, which can create tension with peers. Over time, these experiences can leave teens with ADHD feeling rejected, misunderstood, or isolated, which may lead them to withdraw.
Helping your teen build self-awareness and learn strategies to manage impulsivity can support healthier, more positive interactions. Role-playing social situations or simply talking through what happened after a tough day can be really helpful.
Do You Need a Diagnosis?
A formal diagnosis of ADHD can open the door to focused support both in and out of school, and, if appropriate, medical treatment. But not every teen with attention challenges needs a diagnosis. If your child is coping well and thriving with supportive strategies in place, that might be enough for now.
That said, if the challenges are significantly affecting daily life at home, school, or socially, Sarah-Jane says that seeking a professional assessment can be a valuable step, and can help them understand more about themselves.
Strengths That Shine
It’s easy to focus on the struggles, but teens with ADHD often bring incredible strengths to the table: quick thinking, creativity, energy, and passion. When these qualities are nurtured, they can become superpowers. Helping your teen recognise and use their strengths can boost their confidence and help them see their unique value.
Building Long-Term Support
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when you are parenting a teen with ADHD, but Sarah-Jane shared some strategies that many families find helpful:
Routine and structure: Clear expectations and consistent routines provide stability.
Break big tasks into chunks: Small, manageable goals feel more achievable.
Repeat repeat repeat: Repetition builds habits and understanding by practising daily routines and activities.
Encourage physical activity: Regular movement helps regulate attention and mood.
Practice self-awareness: Help your teen notice when their focus is drifting and gently guide them back on track.
Celebrate progress: Every step forward matters, even the small ones.
Understanding and supporting a teenager with ADHD takes patience, compassion, and teamwork. It’s about seeing the whole person, challenges and their potential, and offering consistent support. When we focus on what’s going right, and offer thoughtful strategies for what’s hard, teens with ADHD will be able to thrive at home, in school, and beyond.