Most teens diagnosed with ADHD are normally given prescribed medications to control the symptoms. While medication is the fastest way to improve focus and reduce impulsivity, it is also known to cause serious side effects that may aggravate the disorder. It's also fairly common for teens with ADHD to sell or trade their excess pills to friends, who use them like they would use cocaine and other substances. One of the best ways to manage ADHD in teens is to look for a treatment program with a specialized academic plan and behavior modification approach. Keep these characteristics in mind while you look for schools or treatment programs:
Structured activities
Teens and adolescents with no focus or direction have difficulty using their time productively. An environment that sets limits and encourages self-discipline will minimize the tendency to procrastinate and teach kids how to manage their time wisely. Look for a school with a structured program - that is, well-defined rules and a rigorous schedule. The routine enforced by the school will do much to counteract the symptoms of ADHD.
Individualized education
Most students with ADHD struggle to pay attention in a traditional lecture-style classroom setting because the medium of instruction fails to engage their interest. Additionally, the traditional classroom expects everyone to learn at the same pace, but the limitations of the disorder tend to make ADHD students fall behind. Look for a school that uses diverse instructional methods like hands-on learning or multimedia presentation. Montessori schools offer this type of self-directed instruction, and it's not surprising that ADHD teens in these types of schools do better when they are allowed to learn at their own pace.
Minimal distractions
It's not uncommon for kids and teens with ADHD to have difficulty finishing projects and meeting goals due to lack of focus. Choose an academic environment with fewer distractions so your child can make significant achievements in terms of academics and personal growth. Common distractions include large student populations, frequent announcements, and social activity. Place a limit on the amount of time your child can spend with his or her friends on school days.
Interpersonal skills
If your child has difficulty building and maintaining relationships, look for a treatment program that will improve his or her interpersonal skills. Your child may need some help with proper communication, especially in terms of expressing their feelings and reacting to feedback. Other social skills that should be given emphasis include impulse control, delaying gratification, and anger management. Once your child masters these skills, he or she will have greater success making friends and maintaining these relationships.
Dr. Yannick Pauli is an expert on natural approaches to ADHD and the author of the popular self-help home-program The Unritalin Solution. He is Director of the Centre Neurofit in Lausanne, Switzerland and has a passion taking care of children with ADHD. Click on the link for more great information about what is ADHD.
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