Teenager ADHD symptoms

[Samcj02]

Can anyone help with this?

I’ve had a phone call from my DD school regarding her well-being.

They are concerned she may have ADHD or is on the spectrum.

he stated he’s concerned she’s been having meltdowns, can’t sit still in class, and cannot hold eye contact, I’ve stated regarding the eye contact she’s always been like it, she’s always struggled, unless it’s close family. She was in fact referred to a paediatrician regarding this when she was a toddler but was signed off with no further action.

ill add she is 14 years old and in high school, I’ve never had any concerns during primary school.

she does have moments where she can be slightly erratic non stop chatting at home and pacing. However has displayed no behaviour issues.

has anyone else been through something similar?

Our experience was that school was reluctant to give any kind of label and we had to push for assessments. It’s good that they are flagging things up to you, it suggests they care. Perhaps make an appt with the senco and the teacher who called and ahead of this read up on adhd and asd (the eye contact is perhaps more asd suggestive). The meltdowns - I would look at what triggers them - it is a symptom of another need not being met. The not sitting still could be adhd. Go in with a list of your concerns and the schools list too and then discuss next steps. We had a diagnosis of adhd at 12. It’s not unusual for late diagnosis but in hindsight you may wonder why you didn’t spot things - you may have been coping with stuff assuming it was what all kids are like!

Thank you for taking the time to reply there’s a few things I’ve noticed. Every day she she comes home with doodles on her arms and legs aswell as the school saying she can’t sit still.
i have emailed the school, I have to admit any symptoms at home in my opinion have definitely been subtle.

My son also doodled and we realised in hindsight this was a need for movement. It is now written into his pupil passport that he should be allowed to doodle as it helps maintain concentration!
I have been thinking about the eye contact thing and it reminded me that my DS with adhd had an awful sports coach that had a go at him because he “wouldn’t look at him” when he was telling him what to do. We don’t really notice the eye contact thing much but I do think he probably avoids it in situations he feels uncomfortable with.
My sons behaviour is generally pretty ok at home but he can be volatile at times and homework is a nightmare. His adhd became more of an issue because of the demands of school which he couldn’t meet. Good luck!

Thank you for sharing. It’s definitely very interesting!

Thought I’d give an update to those who would benefit from any advice. I had a meeting at the school, she said DD writhes in her chair, swings on her chair, avoids eye contact and giggles when uncomfortable. I know she struggles in exam situations and with her GCSEs soon coming up I’ve agreed to a referral to a paediatrician. 9/10 teachers said she only rarely or sometimes sits still and concentrates in lessons.
i am trying to get my head around this, the SENCO did state she masks it very well, and of course I’m grateful for them bringing this to our attention so she can get the support she needs in place asap!