The rollercoaster of ADHD and puberty
The teenage years are a rollercoaster for most girls, but for girls with ADHD, it can be a tough tough time.
Emotional ups and downs are more intense, everything is more intense. Plus, the developing female brain makes the challenges associated with this neurodevelopmental disorder even more challenging.
Why is it so tough?
Core symotoms (difficulty focusing, impulsive behaviour, and challenges with organisation) when added to puberty (body is changing rapidly, hormones are surging, and the brain is rewiring itself) = THE PERFECT STORM!
The teenage brain goes through many changes:
Hormones surge ✔️
Emotions fluctuate ✔️
Focus and concentration is affected ✔️
Organisation often goes out of the window! ✔️
Sleep patterns can become erratic ✔️
Relationships can be difficult ✔️
Puberty and the Female Brain
The brain is amazing! But, it's also going through a massive makeover.
- Hormones: These chemical messengers are running wild, affecting mood, energy levels, and sleep.
- Brain changes: The part of the brain responsible for decision-making and impulse control is still developing. This can make it harder to resist that urge or think before we act.
- Emotional rollercoaster: It's normal to feel like emotions are all over the place. ADHD can intensify these feelings.
A bit more detail:
One of the issues they face is that the part of the brain (pre-frontal cortex) responsible for planning, decision-making, and impulse control, this area is still maturing during adolescence. It is trying to keep up with the big changes in the part responsible for emotion and memory (the limbic system).
Oxford Sparks:This video offers a helpful overview of the typical teenage brain. Remember: each brain is unique.
How does ADHD complicate things?
The prefrontal cortex in the brain (responsible for planning, organisation, and impulse control), is still developing during adolescence. In girls with ADHD, this area is already functioning less well than a 'typical' teenager girl. Then, when we throw in added hormone fluctuations of puberty, this can have increased challenges with focus, time management, and emotional regulation.
Also, the limbic system (emotional processing), is undergoing big changes. For girls with ADHD, who often struggle with emotional regulation, this can increase mood swings, irritability, and sensitivity.
How does this impact daily life?
When the effects of puberty meet the symptoms of ADHD, things can get 'interesting'.
- School: For girls with ADHD, staying focused, organised, and motivated can be even harder. This can lead to frustration, decline in academic progress, and feeling overwhelmed.
- Social: Making friends, understanding social cues, and managing emotions can be a minefield. ADHD can amplify these difficulties, making it harder to connect with others and build strong relationships.
- Emotions: Hormones are already playing havoc with emotions, and ADHD can intensify these feelings. Mood swings,sensitivity, and difficulty coping with stress can impact relationships and overall well-being.
- Self-Esteem: Navigating the challenges of ADHD and puberty can take a toll on self-esteem. We might question our abilities and wonder why things seem harder for us than anyone else.
ADHD, Puberty, and the Real World: Challenges for Girls and Women
The thing is we don't exist alone. We don't live by ourselves on desert islands. So, when you factor in the ADHD, the puberty, plus whatever else is going on your world then the challenges faced by girls with ADHD go beyond academic and social struggles. Things can get complicated pretty fast.
ADHD can make it tough to control impulses, manage emotions, and resist the urge to seek excitement. These challenges, combined with the pressures of puberty and the wider world, can lead to risky behaviours.
- Risky Behaviours: Girls with ADHD may engage in impulsive actions without considering the consequences. This can show up in lots of ways, such as reckless driving, substance abuse, or unsafe sexual behaviours.
- Addictions: We seek excitement which increases the risk of addiction to substances or behaviours such excessive screen time, gambling, or compulsive shopping.
Strategies for Parents/Caregivers and Daughters
While it's important for you and your family to have individual coping strategies, working together can be incredibly beneficial. Here are some ways to cope together:
- Shared Goal Setting: Setting goals, both short-term and long-term. This fosters a sense of ownership and motivation.
- Open Communication: Create an open and honest ongoing conversation where you both can express feelings and concerns without fear of judgement.
- Family Support: Involve other family members in creating a supportive environment. This can include brothers and sisters, grandparents, or other relatives.
- Time Together: Prioritise spending time together engaging in enjoyable activities to strengthen your bond.
When these strategies aren't enough
While you and your parents can implement many coping strategies, it's essential to recognise when professional support is needed.
- Therapeutic Intervention: At some point you might need the guidance of a therapist or counsellor specialising in ADHD and puberty. They can provide strategies, support, and a safe space for you. If this is suggested to you, then your loved ones think that's the next step. Listen to them.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be recommended to manage ADHD symptoms. It's crucial to work closely with a healthcare professional to weigh the potential benefits and risks. Again, listen, and ask questions.
- Educational Support: Your school might develop a support plan, which can provide accommodations and support in the classroom. This is an real opportunity for you to build a support system at school that works for you.
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