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Be prepared. By Jamie Thompson
The telltale signs were undeniably present: a deepening voice, a few breakouts, and noticeable growth spurts. Puberty had set in, and with it came an unexpected whirlwind—my son’s ADHD symptoms were intensifying. He became easily distracted, struggled to keep up with assignments, and frequently forgot his water bottle at home. The surge of hormones was triggering all sorts of changes in his body, and unfortunately, his medication wasn’t as effective as before. He had reached the maximum dosage of stimulants, and with his body in flux, his doctor was hesitant to try new treatments. So, we carried on.
Typically, physical changes during puberty begin for girls between ages 8 and 13 and for boys between ages 9 and 14. I noticed my son becoming more impulsive and testing limits, eager to discover how far he could push boundaries without facing consequences. I attempted to overlook this behavior, but it often escalated until I could no longer remain calm. It wasn’t so much that he was misbehaving; he was simply challenging everything around him. Feeling overwhelmed, I decided to delve into some research.
It quickly became apparent that we were navigating a critical phase. The physical and psychological transformations associated with puberty can be challenging for both children and parents, with experiences differing for boys and girls.
What I discovered about boys was concerning. Many boys going through puberty often suddenly refuse to take their medication. They wish to fit in with peers, and if their friends can manage without medication, why should they be any different? It’s understandable—who wants to stand out? With their bodies already undergoing drastic changes, they just want to blend in.
Moreover, boys may be more susceptible to risky behaviors during this time due to fluctuating testosterone levels. Dr. Alex Carter, in an interview with Parenting Today, pointed out that “testosterone interacts in complex ways with dopamine and other hormones that are relevant to ADHD.” This may explain why boys with ADHD could be at a higher risk for engaging in substance abuse compared to their peers.
ADHD in girls presents its own set of challenges. Research indicates that girls with ADHD are more likely to face academic struggles, mood disorders, early signs of substance abuse, and aggressive behaviors than girls without ADHD. As young girls develop, their hormones fluctuate, which can lead to emotional upheaval. They may experience sleep disturbances, difficulties concentrating and organizing, or feelings of being overwhelmed—all of which can negatively impact self-esteem.
Additionally, girls with ADHD often experience heightened symptoms during their menstrual cycles as progesterone and estrogen levels vary. These hormonal changes can lead to unpredictable and sometimes severe ADHD symptoms throughout the month. If that wasn’t enough, girls with ADHD tend to have more pronounced PMS symptoms than their peers. The good news? Treating ADHD can help alleviate some of those PMS-related issues, according to Parenting Today.
Both boys and girls with ADHD face classic symptoms that can become exacerbated during puberty, such as being easily distracted or fidgeting. Forgetting to bring lunch to school or zoning out during conversations is common, but these struggles become even more pronounced during this tumultuous time.
A shared experience for both genders is the feeling of isolation. Children with long-standing ADHD often find it challenging to connect with their peers during puberty, sometimes gravitating toward other children who also feel like outsiders. This can lead to risky behaviors, including alcohol and substance use, which is a cause for concern among parents. Furthermore, adolescents with ADHD may struggle with motivation, leading to challenges at school and home, resulting in feelings of helplessness.
So, what can you do? How can you effectively manage the symptoms and behaviors? The key lies in establishing appropriate strategies tailored to your family and child. Dr. Carter suggests implementing risk-reduction strategies while fostering strong parent-child communication. “The communication must be non-judgmental,” he emphasizes. “Educate your teen in a gentle way about managing risks—whether it involves internet safety, social media, drugs, peer pressure, or automotive safety.”
You can also take simple steps to help ease this transition. Ensure your child maintains a balanced diet and gets sufficient rest—both are crucial for overall health. Additionally, assist them in managing stress, which can trigger risky behaviors.
ADHD is a multifaceted challenge for both parents and children. However, through collaboration and open communication, families can work together to navigate this complex period. According to Medical News Today, puberty generally lasts between 2 to 5 years, giving families time to adapt and find effective coping strategies. With a solid plan in place, both parents and kids can successfully manage ADHD during puberty, paving the way for a brighter future.
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In summary, navigating ADHD during puberty can be challenging for both parents and children, but understanding the changes and implementing effective communication and strategies can lead to a successful transition into adolescence.