How to Increase Motivation and Focus for Teens with ADHD

In a world consumed by nonstop notifications and instant gratification, it’s no wonder that students, teachers and parents have noticed shorter attention spans in students. You may be wondering how to increase motivation for your teen with ADHD, or how to help your teen with ADHD to focus.

In a 2020 survey, 48.6% of students said they find themselves zoning out in class all the time, while 47.7% say they zone out sometimes.

It is even more of a struggle for students with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). 

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children and adults' executive functioning. People with ADHD often have difficulty paying attention, controlling their impulses, and staying organized. This can make it difficult for them to complete tasks, learn new things, and follow directions.

One of the challenges that teens with ADHD face is a lack of motivation. They may find it difficult to get started on tasks, stay focused, and finish what they start. This can lead to problems in school, at home, and in social situations.

The good news is there are ways we can reduce ADHD symptoms naturally with the right supplements to increase dopamine, and other motivation techniques.

ADHD and Dopamine

While more research is needed, some studies suggest that there is a link between low levels of dopamine and ADHD.

Scientists have observed that people with ADHD have at least one defective gene, the DRD₂ gene, that makes it difficult for neurons to respond to dopamine.

Dopamine is the neurotransmitter that is involved in feelings of pleasure and the regulation of attention. It makes us feel good when we accomplish things, and therefore increases our motivation to do those things.

Increasing Dopamine Naturally

When it comes to increasing dopamine, it's important to know about certain amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of neurotransmitters, and certain amino acids in particular help build dopamine.

The amino acids also require certain vitamin and mineral co-factors to support dopamine production. We can take these amino acids and co-factors in the form of supplements to help boost dopamine naturally!

Best supplements for ADHD:

• N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine: L-Tyrosine is a precursor to dopamine. It is thought to help increase dopamine levels by providing the body with the building blocks it needs to make dopamine.
• Taurine: Taurine is an amino acid that is found in high concentrations in the brain. It has been shown to improve focus and concentration by reducing anxiety and stress.
• L-Theanine: L-Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea. It has been shown to improve focus and concentration by increasing alpha brain waves.
• Acetyl L-Carnitine HCl: L-Carnitine is an amino acid that helps to transport fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they can be burned for energy. It is thought to help improve focus and motivation by providing the brain with more energy.
• Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is a key player in the synthesis of converting amino acids into neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin

Attention Chews help you conquer your to-do's!

Attention Chews have all the necessary amino acids and co-factors to increase dopamine naturally and boost motivation.

Even better, Attention Chews are stimulant-free. Most productivity supplements out there contain caffeine which can increase stress hormones. We intentionally crafted Attention Chews with vitamins and minerals that reduce stress instead.

People 14 years old and up can take Attention Chews.

*Please consult with your healthcare provider before trying new supplements for focus and productivity. This article does not diagnose or treat any condition, it is for educational purposes only.

Other ways to boost motivation in students with ADHD

Encourage your teen to exercise or sign them up for sports

Exercise naturally increases dopamine levels in the brain, improves sleep, and stimulates brain activity.

Break down large goals or tasks into smaller steps.

Large tasks or long-term goals can be daunting for teens with ADHD, which is demotivating. Breaking them down into smaller, more manageable steps can make them seem less daunting and more achievable.

Use positive reinforcement

When teens with ADHD achieve a goal, be sure to praise them on their efforts and offer them a reward. This will help them to see that their hard work is paying off and make them more motivated to do well.

Most importantly, don't give up on them! Show them you believe in them, you care about them, and that you want them to succeed.

In Summary

Lack of motivation is a common challenge many teens, especially those with ADHD, experience. 

Studies suggest there is a link between low levels of dopamine and ADHD. 

You may be able to increase dopamine levels naturally by supplementing with nutrients that boost neurotransmitter production, such as amino acids L-Tyrosine, taurine, and L-Theanine.