Helpful Activities for Teens with ADHD in Arizona

There are three categories of ADHD: 

• Predominantly Inattentive
• Predominantly Hyperactive
• Combined Type

Each category will present differently, just as each individual may present differently within the category. This is why it is important to have a professional diagnosis to confirm whether ADHD is present or not.

These symptoms are a general description of some of the experiences your teen may have depending on the presentation of their ADHD:

• Inattention (difficulty maintaining sustained focus, difficulty initiating focused attention, losing track of the required object of attention, and becoming distracted) – This can be seen as frequently ‘daydreaming,’ struggling to start an activity, going off on tangents, and not being able to complete a task.
• Impulsivity (poor impulse control, inability to show inhibition, and little thought of consequences) – This can be seen in speaking over other people, struggling to wait their turn, and engaging in risky behavior without considering the consequences.
• Hyperactivity (a heightened level of sensory sensitivity, increased need for movement, and increased psychomotor agitation) – This can be seen in the need to constantly be moving, being soothed by being able to fidget or move part of their body, and regulation through sensory stimulation such as soothing sounds or textures.
• Executive functioning difficulties (organizational and planning difficulties, struggles with task switching, and working memory difficulties) – These can be seen as struggling to organize one’s work or living space, forgetting things or tasks, and difficulty moving from one task to the next.

Your teen may also struggle to follow instructions or focus in school, leading to low self-esteem and frustration. Socially, your teen may have trouble controlling their emotions or maintaining friendships, which can lead to isolation.