Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Evidence 

https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/premature-infants-particularly-vulnerable-adhd 

Dee Rapposelli 

ADHD risk was confirmed to be higher in persons who were born very or extremely premature and/or were of very low or extremely low birth weight, with an OR that was 3.04 higher than controls (95% CI, 2.19-4.21). The more extreme the prematurity or low birth weight, the higher the OR. That is, persons who were born very/extreme premature and of very/extremely low weight were about 3 times more likely to receive an ADHD diagnosis than those who had term, normal-weight births. Whereas the risk was doubled in the very premature/low birth weight, it was quadrupled in the extremely premature/low birth weight. 

Education 

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting kids from all backgrounds with symptoms that can continue into adulthood. ADHD is characterized by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. The diagnosis is either ADHD with Hyperactivity or without Hyperactivity. The term ADD is not used anymore. Things to consider for this age group of 13 – 17 years old are what does ADHD look like at this age and its special considerations. Is this a late diagnosis in the teenage years?  

It’s not uncommon to have trouble sitting still, concentrating and being impulsive. But as we get older for some people this remains a problem that interferes with everyday life. Teenagers from 13 – 17 usually have an increase in work load from school, they are usually getting jobs and homelife demands increase, new skills are learned such as driving and navigating a world without your parents beside you. This might be a time that a few kids start to struggle and show more attention drawing behaviours.  

Teenagers with ADHD may experience:  

• Distractible and lack of focus 

• Self-focused behaviour 

• Hyperactivity and fidgeting trouble sitting still 

• Heightened emotions and rejection sensitive to criticize more so than the average teen 

• Impulsive and poor decision making 

• Poor concentration and trouble finishing tasks  

• Disorganization and forgetfulness

If your teenager has this diagnosis or you are seeking a diagnosis, it’s important to remind yourself that there are so many successful people that have ADHD and it does not limit the chances of living a happy life. However, without identification and proper treatment, ADHD may affect a teenager’s mood, confidence, school performance and job performance. It can leave parents frustrated because they are not understanding the true problem at the core of their behaviour problems. Early identification and treatment are extremely important.  

For teens not diagnosed in childhood, obtaining a diagnosis of ADHD in adolescence can be a little more difficult for a few reasons: 

• To qualify for a diagnosis of ADHD, symptoms must be present in some way prior to age 12 and this can be challenging recalling information from years ago.

• Many of the symptoms listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria are for younger children and may not be relevant to teens. 

• Getting reliable reports of teens’ symptoms from surrounding observers, such as parents or teachers, is more difficult. Teenagers usually have several different teachers, each of whom see them for only a small portion of the day.  Parents are also likely to have less direct contact with your teen during the teenage years than you did during their younger childhood. 

• Some of the striking symptoms of ADHD, such as extreme hyperactivity, may be more subtle in teens than in younger children. 

• The presence of other disorders may complicate the diagnosis of ADHD.

It can be helpful for the teenager to understand their diagnosis so that they can start to understand their challenges and regain confidence and look for school and work options that can improve the overall quality of their life. 

ADHD is linked to problems with Executive Skills (the brain-based functions that help teens regulate behaviour, recognize the need for guidance, set and achieve goals, balance desires with responsibilities, and learn to function independently).   

Empowerment 

With the right support, teenagers with ADHD can do very well. Support might include a mix of medication, practical strategies, and help for both your teen and your family. These supports can reduce challenges and help your teen build on their strengths, confidence, and independence. 

The teenage years can bring new pressures, like school demands, friendships, and big emotions. There are many skills and tools that can help make daily life easier and more positive. It’s normal to feel worried or overwhelmed if your teen is newly diagnosed or if behaviours become more challenging. But it’s important to know this is not a hopeless situation. With the right support, teenagers with ADHD can have a bright future—especially when families, schools, and support services work together. 

If you are concerned about your teen’s behaviour, start by speaking with your GP (family doctor). They can guide you and, in some cases, may be able to assess and diagnose ADHD, or refer your teen to a paediatrician, psychologist, psychiatrist, or other support professionals. 

If your teen is diagnosed with ADHD, your healthcare professional will talk through treatment options with you and your teen. This may include medication and other supports. It’s important to learn about the benefits, possible side effects, and what might work best, so you can make informed decisions together as a family. 

Famous people with ADHD 

• Steven Spielberg  

• Richard Branson  

• Walt Disney  

• Emma Watson  

• Dick Smith  

Many successful people have ADHD. With the right support, your teen can find their own strengths and path. 

Useful links 

ADHD Australia 

https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au 

ADHD Foundation 

https://adhdfoundation.org.au/adhd-teenagers-and-young-adults 

Headspace 

https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/adhd/ 

ABC News 

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-06/adhd-diagnosis-changes-gp-doctor-demand/106419522 

Agency for Clinical Innovation NSW 

https://aci.health.nsw.gov.au/projects/adhd-in-general-practice/consumers 

Need support? NurtureConnect allows you to connect with our NurtureProgram support team, or call our 24 hour NurtureLine 1300 622 243 or join our Facebook community.

NurtureConnect