ADHD Treatment for Teens

Effective Inpatient And Outpatient Programs for Teens with ADHD

Often, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects all aspects of a person’s life. Mood and mental health, sleep, school, friendships, and relationships with family members are just some of the things teens with ADHD might struggle with.

But it is not negotiable, no matter the struggle: Teens and adolescents with ADHD must have the skills they need to thrive. When you understand how your mind works and what you can do to address ADHD symptoms in daily life, it can be a game-changer.

What should you know about ADHD treatment for teens and getting your child support?

Many resources are available for youth and families navigating ADHD. Medication, therapy, lifestyle, and at-home strategies all often play a role in treatment.

Artemis Adolescent Healing Center is proud to provide evidence-based inpatient and outpatient ADHD treatment programs in Arizona. We help families find the approach to ADHD treatment that works for them.

What is the Most Effective Approach to ADHD Treatment for Teens?

There is not a single answer to this question, as ADHD treatment usually involves a combination of medication and therapy.[1] However, every teen or adolescent is different.

ADHD Medication for Teens

Stimulant medication (like Adderall, Adderall XR, Ritalin) is the first line of treatment for ADHD. It’s effective for most people. About 70 to 80%.[2] Stimulants work by increasing brain chemicals that improve focus, attention, and impulse control.

It’s important to bust the myths surrounding stimulant ADHD medication. Especially with teens, some parents are afraid of the potential for addiction. In reality, stimulant ADHD medication may reduce the risk of substance abuse.[3]

That’s not to say it’s the right choice for everyone. Some people respond better to non-stimulant ADHD medication (e.g., Qelbree). Or, alternatives. For example, Wellbutrin. There are also people who may need non-medication alternatives for managing ADHD.

All of that is okay. It is simply up to the needs of the individual.

Psychotherapy for Teen ADHD

Psychotherapy can help treat ADHD. Teens with ADHD may work on a variety of goals in therapy. For example:

• Executive function skills (e.g., time management, problem-solving, organization).
• Stress management techniques.
• Reducing disruptions at school.
• Increasing independence in daily life.
• Bettering peer and familial relationships.
• Emotion regulation.
• Motivation.
• Impulsivity.
• Self-esteem.
• Social skills

ADHD can come with additional challenges that aren’t necessarily expressed in the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. For example, those with ADHD might experience rejection-sensitive dysphoria. This can be difficult for teenagers to navigate.

Therapy should always be individualized to meet your adolescent’s needs. That’s exactly the approach we take. If there’s something they’re struggling with, we’re here to help them address it.

Managing Co-Occurring Mental Health Concerns in Teen ADHD

Is your child facing additional challenges? Research shows that there is a high risk of co-occurring disorders in those with ADHD. Here are some other conditions and concerns that may pair with ADHD.[4]

• Behavior and conduct problems.
• Oppositional defiant disorder.
• Learning disabilities.
• Anxiety disorders.
• Depression.
• Substance use disorders.

Our experts specialize in ADHD and other conditions. Concerns co-occurring with ADHD (including those listed above, as well as others, like eating disorders or grief) are addressed in our programs as part of a whole-person approach.

Effective Inpatient and Outpatient Programs for Teen ADHD in Arizona at Artemis

A full continuum of care and adolescent treatment programs is available at Artemis Adolescent Healing Center. With multiple treatment options available, we’re here to help teens and adolescents who need varying levels of care.

Residential Inpatient ADHD Treatment

Residential inpatient treatment for ADHD allows teenagers and adolescents to focus most of their time on the therapy process. Teens in this program stay on site at our facility in Tucson for the duration of the program. Usually, about 30-60 days.

Family involvement is important. In addition to daily groups and regular individual therapy sessions, teens in inpatient treatment for ADHD at our center participate in family therapy sessions (if possible).

Residential inpatient care for ADHD helps teens develop lifestyle structure and healthy routines. We strongly recommend that teens transition to a lower level of care, such as our partial hospitalization program, after residential treatment.

Outpatient ADHD Treatment Programs for Teens

Artemis Adolescent Healing Center offers several levels of outpatient care for teens with ADHD. These include:

• Partial hospitalization program (PHP). Our teen PHP for ADHD involves daily therapy, lasting for most of the day. However, unlike residential ADHD treatment, teens in PHP can sleep and live at home.
• Intensive outpatient program. Teens in IOP participate in therapy at our center a few hours per day (usually, 3-5 days per week).
• Outpatient program. 1-2 days of therapy per week. Typically, this is a mode of follow-up care for those who have finished a higher level of care.

Outpatient ADHD treatment programs can be ideal for teens who are:

• Not in need of a higher level of care at their time of entrance.
• Transitioning out of a higher level of care.
• Able to attend school while in treatment.

If you’re not sure what the best starting level of care for your teen is, we can help you during the intake process.

Aftercare Planning for Success Following Treatment

At Artemis, our skilled providers will help your family make a plan for life after treatment.

Here are some ways effective aftercare planning can help your teen with ADHD.

Consistency and Routines

Consistency helps teens with ADHD know what to expect and maintain structure day to day. Routines for your teenager may include:

• Eating meals and snacks on schedule.
• Sleep hygiene (e.g., same bedtime and wake-up time each day, no screen time 30-60 minutes before bed).
• Homework and chores.
• Regular exercise.

Strategies like ‘time blocking’ can be helpful. This refers to setting aside distinct periods of time for designated tasks. Calendars, planners, and lists can help teens keep track of activities.

Aftercare and Follow Up Care

Follow-up care can be essential for helping teens maintain their progress and keep making more. This may include:

• Continuing talk therapy.
• Participation in outpatient programs.
• Ongoing medication management.
• Support groups and connecting with other teens who have ADHD.

We provide check-ins and alumni support for teens and families who have been in our programs.

Parenting Strategies for Youth Diagnosed With ADHD

Many parents who have children with ADHD are encouraged to go through parent training. This may depend on your child’s age at the time of diagnosis.

That said, parenting strategies for ADHD can be adapted for your child’s age group. Often, these include:

• Positive reinforcement.
• Immediate feedback (e.g., giving verbal praise right away following a desired behavior).
• Creating a structured daily schedule and environment.
• Collaborative problem-solving.
• Focusing on strengths.
• Communication techniques.

The goal of parent training for ADHD is to help guardians learn strategies they can use at home to help kids with ADHD. We help parents and teens find a greater sense of harmony, learning new skills and strategies that work for them.

Obtaining School Accommodations for Your Teen With ADHD

School accommodations are vital for youth with ADHD. Your child may benefit from:

• More time on tests.
• Taking tests in a separate room (away from distractions).
• Help with instructions.
• Preferential seating.
• Regular check-ins with teachers.
• Organizational tools.
• Sensory and fidget tools.
• Alternative assignments.
• Note-taking support.

ADHD presents differently from person to person. The accommodations that benefit your teen most may vary. If they have a co-occurring learning disability (e.g., dyscalculia, dyslexia), these can and should be accommodated, too.

If your child is or would be in school at the time of their program, we can help. The Artemis Adolescent Healing Center team is here to communicate with or complete paperwork for your child’s school if needed.

How do ADHD Symptoms Change in Teens?

ADHD isn’t limited to pediatrics. Teens and adults struggle, too.

Symptoms of ADHD can change as you get older. Once kids hit their teen years, they may be less prone to external symptoms of hyperactivity (like running around in the classroom when they should be seated).

These symptoms can become more internalized instead. For example, hyperactivity might manifest as internal restlessness or more subtle fidgeting.

Many teens with ADHD struggle more as social and academic expectations increase. They may experience challenges, like missed deadlines, risk-taking behavior, frustration, mood swings, and emotional outbursts.

When a teen’s ability to manage symptoms and life challenges improves, their distress decreases. Self-regulation and confidence often improve with treatment. They grow to understand themselves more and can better prepare for their future.

Why Does Identification of Symptoms and Finding ADHD Treatment Matter?

Unaddressed ADHD symptoms can have serious consequences. These include, but are not restricted to:

• Problems at work or school.
• Problems in interpersonal relationships.
• Legal issues.
• Depression.
• Anxiety.
• Substance abuse.

Early identification and treatment support lifelong success.[5] There’s nothing wrong with having ADHD. It’s just a matter of having the right tools.

Artemis Employs a Range of Evidence Based ADD Treatment Approaches

Behavior therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are helpful for many teens with ADHD. In our programs, behavior therapy is used alongside other treatments, such as:

• Experiential therapies (e.g., adventure therapy, art therapy).
• Supportive treatments and activities (e.g., yoga, breathwork).
• Mindfulness-based therapies.
• Motivational therapies.
• Medication management.
• Life skills.
• Psychoeducation.

Finding the right treatment for your teen is what matters. Every client at Artemis receives an individualized treatment plan tailored to their needs.

Choose Artemis for Proven Teen ADHD Treatment Services

Artemis Adolescent Healing Center provides effective, compassionate, and JCAHO-accredited behavioral health care for teens. We work with ADHD, mental disorders, substance abuse, and other concerns affecting teens and adolescents.

Our ADHD treatment programs in Tucson, AZ, are covered by most insurances. You can verify your teens’ treatment coverage in a few minutes or less by calling our admissions line.

We’re here to answer any questions you have, provide directions to our center, or help you start the intake process. Call us confidentially today to get proven support for your child.

References

1. What is ADHD?. Psychiatry.org – What is ADHD? (n.d.).
2. Chang, Z., Lichtenstein, P., Halldner, L., D’Onofrio, B., Serlachius, E., Fazel, S., Långström, N., & Larsson, H. (2014, August). Stimulant ADHD medication and risk for substance abuse. Journal of child psychology and psychiatry, and allied disciplines.
3. Kolar, D., Keller, A., Golfinopoulos, M., Cumyn, L., Syer, C., & Hechtman, L. (2008, April). Treatment of adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Other concerns and conditions with ADHD. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
5. National Resource Center on ADHD – cloudfront.net. (n.d.).