Parenting a Neurodivergent Teen

Autism, ADHD, and related differences shape how a teen experiences school, friendships, and stress. This guide covers evaluations, meltdowns, and what to watch for when anxiety or depression comes along too.

We're not clinicians or doctors, and this practical guide isn't medical advice. For guidance about your teen, always talk with their doctor or therapist. If you're worried about their safety, call or text 988, or call 911.

4 articlesBy Jeremy MannéMore on the way

If you're new here, start with these

Start here

When Anxiety or Depression Comes Alongside Autism or ADHD

Anxiety is common in teens with ADHD, and the CDC reports that about 4 in 10 children with ADHD had anxiety and nearly 78% had at least one other co-o…

Then

Questions Parents Ask Before Seeking an Autism or ADHD Evaluation for Their Teen

An evaluation for autism, ADHD, or a related difference is usually still worth pursuing in the teen years, and the Centers for Disease Control and Pre…

Then

How to Pursue an Evaluation for Your Teen, and What to Expect Along the Way

Most families start an evaluation for ADHD, autism, or a learning difference with the teen's pediatrician, who can rule out medical causes, screen, an…

Every article in this guide

Neurodivergent Teens

When Anxiety or Depression Comes Alongside Autism or ADHDAnxiety is common in teens with ADHD, and the CDC reports that about 4 in 10 children with ADHD had anxiety and nearly 78% had at least one other co-occurring condition, based on a 2022 national parent survey.9 min Questions Parents Ask Before Seeking an Autism or ADHD Evaluation for Their TeenAn evaluation for autism, ADHD, or a related difference is usually still worth pursuing in the teen years, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that some people with autism are not diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood.9 min How to Pursue an Evaluation for Your Teen, and What to Expect Along the WayMost families start an evaluation for ADHD, autism, or a learning difference with the teen's pediatrician, who can rule out medical causes, screen, and refer to the right specialist.9 min Meltdowns Versus Tantrums, and How to Respond With UnderstandingA meltdown is an involuntary reaction to overwhelm, while a tantrum is aimed at getting something or avoiding something, and the two call for very different responses from a parent.9 min

When it's more than home can handle

You don't have to figure out the next step alone

We're not clinicians, so the Getting Help guide explains your options in plain language and points you toward people who can evaluate your teen. If you're worried about safety, call or text 988, or call 911.

Levels of care, explained →What level of care your teen needs →Crisis options →