5 Ways You Can Expect Your Child’s ADHD to Change As They Grow
Sep 19, 2024
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is largely considered a childhood condition since symptoms such as fidgeting, daydreaming, and forgetfulness are so prominent during those early elementary years.
Not so long ago, it was actually thought that kids outgrew ADHD once they hit their teenage years because those telltale hyperactive symptoms would taper off.
More recent studies have revealed that instead of going away, ADHD simply morphs and presents differently as kids grow and develop. Because ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, it’s chronic in nature, meaning children with ADHD will become adolescents and then adults with ADHD.
However, how ADHD changes looks vastly different from child to child, and it largely depends on what subtype they have. So, how can you — as a caregiver — prepare for ADHD changes as your child grows?
Our team at Greenwich Avenue Psychiatry in Greenwich, Connecticut, answers that question in this month’s blog by looking at a few of the ways ADHD can shift as your child matures and develops.
Since ADHD is a brain disorder, all kids with ADHD have low levels of dopamine, causing them to struggle with control over attention, social interactions, and movement.
However, ADHD can look vastly different from child to child. While some kids might be incredibly hyperactive or impulsive, others may internalize their symptoms and struggle more with inattention and daydreaming. Here are just some of the ways ADHD might manifest in your child:
Your child may also continually struggle with interrupting others, staying on task, or taking big risks without thinking of the consequences.
All these symptoms can affect their ability to perform well in school and to make friends.
ADHD is often diagnosed between the ages of 5 and 12, since this is typically when symptoms are most severe or obvious. However, as your child grows and develops, many of the hyperactive symptoms diminish as they learn how to cope and adapt. Don’t be fooled, though, the ADHD is still there.
Once your child hits adolescence, these are five ways their ADHD can change:
Even though symptoms of ADHD can change, the child may still struggle in school and might encounter relationship difficulties.
No matter their age, ADHD help is always available for your child at Greenwich Avenue Psychiatry. We can make a treatment plan based on their individual needs and symptoms. To get started with ADHD management, schedule an appointment with our team by calling 888-334-2500 or using our online booking feature.