Teenagers:
Unfortunately, ADD/ADHD may not be recognised or treated for years. When it is only diagnosed in an adolescent for the first time the problems are compounded. Not only do they often have learning difficulties but they may be years behind in basic social and learning skills and/or be turned off to learning.
Behavioural problems may have initially been a consequence of the ADD/ADHD but now may be more severe than the ADD/ADHD. Depending on the age special education might have to be shifted towards vocational planning. The same treatment approaches, as for younger children, are needed, however, the work is harder. Medication can now be helpful in combination with natural supplementation. Individual therapy along with group and family therapy is often necessary. Ideally, children with ADD/ADHD should be identified early. By adolescence they could well be on their way towards overcoming their difficulties. Some may have remaining learning problems and may continue to need help. The added troubles and sensitivities of adolescence may cause your child to suddenly refuse to have extra classes, remediation, or to take medication. Teenagers do not want to be different, but handled with sensitivity and a sense of humour. Most problems can be overcome.
Adults:
If you have a child who is ADD/ADHD, the chances are that either you or your spouse also has the condition.
"Hyper actives" tend to be drawn to people who are also dynamic, over-active and often vivacious. So it could be that there are characteristics of ADD/ADHD in both sides of your child's family (so no finger-pointing, please!) Maybe, as you watch your child experiencing certain difficulties, you remember your own childhood, and you wonder ...Perhaps you've had persistent problems that have plagued you throughout your adulthood. It is possible that they are due to the condition of ADD/ADHD. It is used to be though that ADD/ADHD was outgrown at adolescence, but now it is generally accepted that it usually continues into adulthood, although it may manifest differently. A check-list of these characteristics is available from our office and if you experience some or most of these traits, then very possibly you are an ADD/ADHD adult.
