ADHD Medication for Teens
Helping Adolescents Build Focus, Confidence, and Emotional Balance
Concentrating in a school or home environment can be difficult for a child with unmanaged ADHD. Recognizing the signs of ADHD in your child or adolescent can be challenging, as it can be difficult to discern between teen behaviors and potential symptoms of ADHD. However, our compassionate treatment team at Mind Works delivers the full spectrum of mental health services for children and teens 13-17. Our comprehensive outpatient care services include assessments, evidence-based therapy, medication management, and parental guidance for support.
Understanding ADHD in Teens
Teenagers typically exhibit less hyperactivity than young adolescents. However, they may fidget or feel restless in certain environments. Some teenagers with ADHD also experience problems paying attention. Others display impulsive behaviors.
No matter what symptoms they experience, teens with unaddressed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder continue to experience academic challenges, organizational issues, or relationship problems. Teens with ADHD are also known to be more likely to engage in risky or destructive behaviors, such as promiscuous activity or substance abuse.
Common ADHD Symptoms in Adolescents
Depending on the severity of your teen’s condition, their symptoms may vary. Learning to recognize your child’s ADHD symptoms can be challenging. However, becoming aware of common symptoms can help. Some warning signs of ADHD include the following symptoms:
- Forgetfulness
- Problems sitting still
- Interrupting others
- Carelessness
- Daydreaming often
- Talking excessively
- Trouble getting along with others
- Difficulty sitting still
How ADHD Affects School, Home, and Social Life
If your teen is experiencing problems paying attention, is forgetful, or simply cannot stay organized, they may notice a gradual decline in many important facets of life. For example, you may see a decrease in their academic performance, leading to poor grades and problems fitting in. Your home environment may even feel tense due to constant redirection, problems keeping a routine, or plain misunderstanding. Increased conflict can cause parental stress and, in some cases, affect other siblings.
Why Teens Benefit From Early Intervention
If your teen is experiencing challenges in different areas of life, you may begin to blame yourself or others for their behavior. However, early intervention is important. Seeking help as soon as you start to notice the signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder can significantly reduce the risk of your child developing co-occurring disorders. Moving forward with care can also improve your relationship with your teenager as well as their future as a whole.
Exploring Treatment Options for ADHD
If your child is facing problems due to ADHD symptoms, breaking down different treatment options with a specialist at Mind Works can give you hope. Our treatment team uses a range of evidence-based therapeutic techniques for ADHD. Different techniques – including play therapy for children 3-12, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and solutions-focused therapy – support the management of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Behavior Therapy, Parent Training, and Medication
Many teens grapple with stress, anxiety, and depression linked with ADHD. For that reason, behavioral therapy can help your teen express what’s going on inside and offer new strategies to reduce symptoms. Behavioral therapy can teach your child organizational skills, improve emotional regulation, and help your teen build healthy relationships for their well-being.
Your child deserves to have a loving and supportive home. Partner with an expert Mind Works therapist and gain the skills and insights necessary to help create that environment. Our goal at Mind Works is to help you become the absolute best parent you can be, ensuring you’re informed with evidence-based techniques and equipped with tools you can rely on when your teen is resistant, struggling with their emotions, or acting in ways that leave you worried or disappointed.
Mind Works also prioritizes medication management. You, your child, and your medication management Mind Works provider will meet periodically for about 20 to 30 minutes (or less once your teen is well-adjusted) to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication regimen in managing symptoms.
When Medication Becomes Part of the Treatment Plan
Although some holistic methods can help manage ADHD, medication often gets integrated into treatment. However, we will discuss any side effects, assess your teen’s overall progress and compliance, and collaboratively make adjustments to medication dosage or type based on our evaluation.
Types of ADHD Medications for Teens
The same form of treatment may not be effective for everyone. Here at Mind Works, our team understands that your child has unique needs. That being said, we offer a wide range of ADHD medications.
How ADHD Medications Work
There are two different types of ADHD medications. These include stimulants or non-stimulants. ADHD medication changes the level of activity in one’s brain to promote improved focus.
Stimulant Medications: Methylphenidate and Amphetamine Formulations
Common brand-name ADHD medications include Ritalin, Concerta, Adderall XR, and Vyvanse. These drugs are either short-acting or long-acting. Stimulants increase dopamine levels in the nervous system for improved concentration.
Non-Stimulant Medications for ADHD
Common non-stimulant medications include Atomoxetine (Strattera), Guanfacine (Intuniv), Clonidine, and Viloxazine. Non-stimulant ADHD medications tend to take longer to show results, but often show a steadier benefit.
Supplements and Alternative Options: What Parents Should Know
Although ADHD supplements or complementary methods show some benefit, they are not always approved by the FDA. However, if your child has a more severe form of ADHD, combining prescription medications with behavioral therapy can further enhance care.
Managing Possible Side Effects
Behavioral medications can provide benefits to your child’s mental health. However, some medications do come with side effects. For that reason, medication management is a vital part of treatment. This type of care promotes safer treatment and reassurance.
Most Common Side Effects in Teens
The most common ADHD medication side effects include poor appetite, irregular sleep patterns, and mood disturbances. However, your teenager’s symptoms may be different from those of others, as each individual responds to new medications differently.
Appetite, Sleep, and Growth Considerations
Your teen may not crave food and face challenges getting enough rest. However, poor nutrition and lack of sleep can hinder your child’s growth and development. Therefore, tracking any changes and reporting them to our treatment team at Mind Works is important.
Monitoring Blood Pressure, Heart Rate, and Tics
Some ADHD medications can cause cardiovascular issues. Understanding that ADHD medications can cause serious side effects, it is important to monitor your child’s vitals from time to time. Take your child’s blood pressure, monitor their BPM, and report any tics for proper management.
Supporting Your Teen Through Adjustments
Starting a new medication can be overwhelming for both you and your child. For that reason, it is crucial to provide support for your teen through each stage of treatment.
How Mind Works Approaches ADHD Medication Management
If your child is struggling with ADHD, our medication management services for children and teens at Mind Works can provide a crucial layer of support as part of a comprehensive pediatric treatment plan. At Mind Works, we prioritize an integrated healthcare approach, bringing together pediatricians, psychologists, and therapists to collaboratively address every facet of your child’s well-being.
Individualized Treatment Plans for Every Teen
Here at Mind Works, we understand your child has unique needs. We are happy to develop an individualized treatment plan to ensure we provide the proper care necessary to manage their ADHD.
Collaboration Between Psychiatrists, Therapists, and Families
At Mind Works, we prioritize an integrated healthcare approach, bringing together pediatricians, psychologists, and therapists to collaboratively address every facet of your teen’s well-being.
Safe, Structured, and Session-Based Care
A safe, stable, and non-stimulating healing environment is important so your child can thrive in treatment. Our clinical team provides structured session-based care so your teenager can remain focused on ongoing improvement.
Communication With Schools and Your Child’s Teachers
Staying in contact with your school system or educational staff members is also important. Informing others who are also in your child’s care of any new medications or treatments can ensure proper monitoring and safety. If you notify others of your child’s condition, they can report any new symptoms or concerns.
What to Expect From ADHD Medication Appointments
Safe management is important to ensure your child receives the most benefit out of our care. Medication management can transform your child’s life and help them soar to heights you may have never thought possible.
The Initial Assessment and Psychological Testing
The first step to your child’s medication management journey is scheduling a 45-60-minute intake appointment with a Mind Works provider. Our main objectives during this appointment are to gather a detailed history of your child’s mental health issues, symptoms, and family history and to provide you with a clearer idea of what medication management for your child might entail. We’ll review your child’s current coping mechanisms and support systems, previous psychiatric evaluations, and medical history.
Medication Evaluation and Selection Process
During our 45-60-minute appointment, your child will have the opportunity to meet with their Mind Works provider. Their provider will ask questions to better assess your child’s symptoms and behaviors – in addition to understanding any family members’ concerns and your child’s treatment preferences. Collaboratively, we will decide on a medication approach, discuss potential side effects and monitoring procedures, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan. We’ll provide you with a personalized medication regimen that provides clear expectations on dosages, side effects, and a timeframe for evaluation.
Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up Sessions
Follow-up appointments are key to ensuring your child’s medication treatment plan is working as planned. You, your child, and your medication management Mind Works provider will meet periodically for about 20 to 30 minutes (or less once your child is well-adjusted) to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication regimen in managing symptoms. We will discuss any side effects, assess your child’s overall progress and compliance, and collaboratively make adjustments to medication dosage or type based on our evaluation.
Adjusting Medications as Your Teen Grows
The same ADHD medication dosage will not be effective long-term. As your child grows both mentally and physically, the efficacy of the drug declines if adjustments are not made.
The Benefits of ADHD Medication for Teens
Here at Mind Works, our healthcare team understands the effects of unmanaged attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Talk therapy can help, but combining both ADHD medication and other types of therapy can provide dual support.
Improved Focus and Academic Performance
Understanding that untreated ADHD can cause impaired focus, prescription medications, whether stimulants or non-stimulants, can improve your child’s ability to concentrate. Therefore, you may begin to notice improved grades and less tension in the home.
Better Emotional Regulation and Reduced Impulsivity
If your child takes their ADHD medication as advised, they may begin to experience emotional regulation. As your teenager achieves stability, you may notice increased confidence as they build healthier connections.
Increased Self-Confidence and Social Connection
Here at Mind Works, our treatment team understands the link between ADHD and poor communication. Once your child begins ADHD medication, you may notice increased confidence as they gradually build healthy connections.
Positive Changes Parents and Teens Notice Over Time
If your child takes ADHD medications as advised, you may notice a few positive changes over time. For example, your child may notice a change in the way they think or process their thoughts. You may also notice a positive change in their behavior and in their ability to remain focused in conversation.
Why Parents Choose Mind Works
Parenting can be full of pressures, uncertainties, and challenges. Parents choose us because we are happy to create a supportive plan tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring you both are set up for success.
Experienced, Compassionate Mental Health Professionals
Our experienced staff is not only trained in what they do but is also compassionate about helping clients overcome the effects of ADHD. A world of possibility awaits your child, and we’re so excited for the opportunity to help them work through roadblocks, improve their skills, and unleash their potential.
Collaborative, Outpatient Behavioral Health Care
Our integrated team comes together to provide the absolute best care for your child, sharing key information and working cooperatively to establish a comprehensive treatment plan.
Five Convenient Texas Locations
Mind Works has five different locations. Your teen can receive treatment in our San Antonio North, San Antonio Northeast, San Antonio West, Schertz, or New Braunfels location.
Evidence-Based, Family-Focused Approach
Mind Works supports family involvement. We provide you and your child’s siblings with education and strategies to create a supportive home environment that fosters understanding and effective communication.
Getting Started With ADHD Medication at Mind Works
How to Schedule an Assessment
Looking for answers regarding your teen’s developmental, educational, or psychological well-being? Our psychologists and psychometricians at Mind Works specialize in conducting assessments that will provide your family with a diagnosis, best treatment outcomes, academic strengths and weaknesses, and suggested educational accommodations for your child. Contact our office, fill out our Mind Works Secure Contact Form to schedule an ADHD assessment.
What to Bring to Your Teen’s First Session
Before your teen begins their first session, it’s important to pack accordingly. For example, aside from bringing their identification card, insurance information, or medical records, think outside of the box. Your child may benefit from a sensory toy, comfortable clothing, or snacks.
Insurance and Payment Options
We only need your name and contact information, location preference, insurance type, and the service(s) you’re interested in. If you have any questions, please call our office and we’ll be happy to provide payment options or more information.
FAQs About ADHD Medication for Teens
It is always recommended to speak with a healthcare professional. A professional can help you determine if your teen needs ADHD medication by thoroughly assessing their symptoms, behavior, and overall functioning.
The most common side effects you might notice in your teen include loss of appetite, sleep difficulties, headaches, and stomach upset. If you notice symptoms, contact a professional such as your primary care doctor.
ADHD medication often starts working within 30 minutes to an hour, but it may take a few weeks of consistent use to see the full benefits for your teen.
Some teens may need to stay on medication long-term if their symptoms significantly impact their daily life, while others might only need it temporarily or during certain stages.
We accept a wide range of commercial insurance payers. However, not all of your child’s treatment may be completely covered under your plan. If you’re considering our program for your child, reach out to our team today. We can help ensure you know exactly what to expect when it comes to costs.
If medication isn’t the right fit for your teen, effective alternatives like behavioral therapy, coaching, school accommodations, and lifestyle changes can help support your child’s needs.
Success Stories
“Highly recommend Mind Works. I am a clinician in Illinois and needed to find a clinic in Texas that could provide services to my client that was moving. This is no easy feat to do across the United States. Mind Works was fabulous to work with from the very beginning. Coordination of care was 5 stars and my “previous” client is very happy with their new counselor. Thank you very much for going above and beyond during this difficult time so many other counseling offices are facing. I appreciate all the help and coordination you offered my client!”
“I have known the owners for over 8 years and have taken a family member to Mind Works. Therefore, I can speak of them both personally and professionally. There truly is no better place for this service, especially for children and young adults. On the personal level, I know how much they truly care about everyone they meet. On a professional level, the entire staff is a reflection of the dedication to helping others and competence that gets results that the owners exude. During the incredibly trying time of this pandemic and the fear and anxiety it has caused many people, we are incredibly blessed to have Mind Works available to support.”
“The front desk staff is kind and courteous and helped me find the right therapist for my child. When I met my therapist she was kind and explained the process to me. I love that she included me in the play therapy process and helped me understand how to help my child. Thankful for the therapists at Mind Works!”
“Mindworks is the leader in child centered play therapy and collaborative care in San Antonio and surrounding areas. Their focus is solely on the mental health of children and teenagers. Each clinician at all four locations is seasoned, knowledgeable, experienced, and capable. Parents trust that their child is going to get the treatment and services they need and deserve.
I thoroughly enjoyed working as a clinician at Mindworks. The support and leadership is consistent and outstanding. Unlike any other job that I have had, leadership and clinicians work together to cultivate an awesome work environment.”
Help Your Teen Thrive With Mind Works
Offering compassionate and evidence-based care, we provide a safe space for teens to develop strategies to manage their ADHD. To learn more, contact us to schedule your teen’s ADHD evaluation today.