For teenagers with ADHD, growing up into a self-sufficient adult might seem a bit overwhelming at times. The teenage years are difficult for anyone, but for those with ADHD, being a teenager comes with a whole new set of goals and circumstances.

Sadly, to the outside world, teenagers with ADHD are sometimes viewed as less capable of living up to their potential. Of course, this accusation is not true! The ADHD teenager usually has good intentions of doing homework, paying attention in class, and cleaning his or her room. Somehow, unfortunately, the distractions of ADHD might get in the way of what the ADHD teen tries to accomplish.

Never fear, though, because there’s plenty for the ADHD teen to be hopeful about. By learning some key ways to cope with attention difficulties, the ADHD teenager can stay on course toward a bright future:

Learn educational rights. In both high school and college, there are laws to help teenagers with ADHD in the classroom.

Be goal oriented. The ADHD teenager should not be overloaded with lots of goals. He or she should choose one goal, work on it until it’s completed, and then go on to the next goal. The goal could be getting a part-time job, applying for colleges, or watching less TV.

Get to know oneself and the way ADHD affects the brain. Observe study habits and behavior. How does the teenager with ADHD learn best? Taking notes? Studying in a group? Audio books? Find out what helps him or her to succeed and stick with it.

Choose a career that fits the diagnosis. People with ADHD are more suited to some jobs than others. When the time comes to choose a career, the teenager may want to consider how ADHD will affect him or her at work. The ADHD career choice can be based on the positive qualities of ADHD.

Do not fall victim to self-medication with alcohol and drugs. ADHD teenagers are more likely to try alcohol and drugs as a way to cope with the condition. Teenagers should find ways to stay away from recreational drug and alcohol use. Teenagers can speak to your parents, a counselor, or a doctor if they are tempted to drink or take drugs. Teenagers also can get involved in anti-drug campaigns and avoid those peers who experiment with drugs.

Be very careful when driving. ADHD teenagers are also more likely to get into car accidents. When it comes to ADD teens and driving, teenagers should limit distractions in the car like cell phone use, music, and passengers.

Try to stay away from TV and video games. Brain studies have shown that for some people, TV and video games stimulate brain chemistry in unhealthy ways, similar to drug addiction. TV and video games also provide an easy distraction that an ADHD teenager does not need.

Speak to adults more often. Teenagers with ADHD should feel free to set up meetings with guidance counselors, teachers, doctors, and other adults in his or her life. Teenagers can speak to them about the future and ask them for advice. Plus, by keeping their own appointments, ADHD teenagers learn how to be more self-reliant adults.