Most people can relate to the challenges of being a teenager; what most of us cannot relate to is attempting to tackle these challenges while struggling with a psychological disorder.  It is estimated that roughly 5% of the United State’s population has Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).  Many of those people are teenagers.  Adolescent ADD can feel overwhelming at times, but it is important to help those afflicted understand that an acute knowledge of their disorder coupled with a treatment plan can often lead the sufferer on the path to normative behavior.

Adolescent ADD symptoms are seen in many behaviors which are classified as normal behaviors for young people; however, in the person with adolescent ADD these behaviors are excessive and can impede their success in school or make social interactions difficult.  Some common behaviors of adolescent ADD include the inability to listen to a class lecture without constantly fidgeting in their chairs, forgetting important facts, an inability to wait their turn when in class, and difficulty completing a homework assignment without distraction.

These particular behaviors are in line with the three common characteristics displayed by those afflicted with the disorder.  These features are hyperactivity (excessive physical unrest), impulse control problems (reacting in a manner which displays a lack of rationale), and an inability to focus on important tasks.  The challenges these symptoms pose for those with adolescent ADD are significant, but these symptoms can be managed with a proper treatment plan.        

The most common forms of treatment for adolescent ADD are medication and therapy.  The main benefits of therapy are that it provides an emotional outlet and will teach the youth coping skills to manage their symptoms. However, the most effective countermeasure for adolescent ADD is proven to be a regiment of stimulant medication. 

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