Webinar Explores ADHD Challenges During Puberty

A recent webinar, titled ‘Puberty and Mental Health: How Hormones Impact ADHD Symptoms in Adolescents,’ discusses the effects of puberty on adolescents diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). As children transition into their teenage years, they undergo significant physical and emotional changes that can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. The session, led by Dr. Paul Mitrani from the Child Mind Institute, highlighted that many teens with ADHD experience increased impulsivity, mood swings, and risky behavior compared to their peers without ADHD.

The webinar emphasized the importance of understanding these hormonal changes and their direct impact on mental health and behavior. For instance, adolescents may become more emotional and face challenges in decision-making, which can affect their long-term choices. Parents often find it difficult to support their children during this tumultuous period, as the combination of hormones and ADHD symptoms can lead to heightened difficulties.

One critical aspect discussed was the need for parents to reevaluate ADHD medication for their children as they navigate puberty. Hormonal fluctuations can alter how medications work, making it essential for caregivers to communicate openly about medication usage and to consult with healthcare professionals regarding necessary adjustments.

Participants learned several strategies to better support adolescents with ADHD during this transitional phase. These include: – Recognizing the emotional changes that come with puberty and how they differ between boys and girls, particularly in decision-making and risk assessment. – Understanding when to consider adjustments in medication and how to have productive discussions about treatment with their children. – Implementing caregiver strategies that foster supportive relationships while managing emotional and behavioral changes.

The webinar also provided resources such as free downloads on the effects of hormones on ADHD symptoms in women and girls, as well as guides tailored for parents raising teens with ADHD.

Dr. Mitrani’s expertise in child and adolescent psychiatry allowed for a detailed examination of ADHD’s complexities during puberty. His approach focuses on creating individualized treatment plans that may include both medication and therapeutic interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Additionally, the session highlighted tools like Play Attention, a program that leverages cognitive training to strengthen executive function. This program is particularly beneficial during puberty as it helps improve focus, self-regulation, and overall mental health in adolescents.

For those interested, the webinar replay is available, along with slides that outline key discussion points and strategies. Participants can also obtain a certificate of attendance for a nominal fee, further encouraging ongoing education in this vital area of adolescent mental health.