Attention Problems
When Focus Issues Are More Than Just a Phase
Attention Problems or ADHD in Children and Teens
It’s normal for children to have short attention spans sometimes, but if your child is constantly in motion, easily distracted, impulsive, or struggling at school, it may be more than just typical behavior. Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and other serious attention issues can disrupt nearly every part of a child’s life, and yours.
At Alexander Youth Network, we help children and teens with severe attention problems and complex behavioral needs find focus, control, and stability. If you feel like your child’s struggles are getting worse, we’re here to help you take the next step.
What Severe ADHD Can Look Like in Children and Teens
ADHD is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions in children, but for some, symptoms go far beyond restlessness or difficulty concentrating.
Signs your child may need a higher level of care:
• Severe impulsivity or risky behavior that puts them or others in danger
• Constant disruptions at school, leading to suspensions or academic failure
• Frequent outbursts, aggression, or inability to follow directions
• Trouble sleeping, eating, or functioning in daily routines
• Ongoing conflict at home, often escalating to safety concerns
• Inability to succeed in outpatient therapy or typical school supports
If any of these feel familiar, your child may benefit from a more intensive treatment approach to address not just symptoms, but the root causes driving their behavior.
The Impact of Untreated ADHD
Left untreated, severe ADHD can affect nearly every aspect of a child’s development:
• Children with ADHD are more likely to struggle in school, repeat grades, or drop out.
• Over 60% of children with ADHD have at least one other mental health disorder,
such as anxiety, depression, or conduct disorder. (source from NCBI)
• ADHD is associated with an increased risk of accidents, substance use,
and legal involvement in adolescence and adulthood.
• Families often experience high levels of stress, burnout, and disruption at home.
Early and effective treatment is key to preventing these long-term challenges and helping your child develop the tools to succeed.
How We Treat Attention Problems and ADHD at Alexander Youth Network
Our approach goes beyond classroom strategies or basic coping tools. At Alexander, we specialize in helping children with severe ADHD and co-occurring behavioral challenges through intensive, trauma-informed treatment.
We offer a full continuum of care, including:
Residential Treatment
For children who need 24/7 support in a safe, therapeutic environment. Our Charlotte Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) provides structured behavioral interventions, psychiatric care, and family therapy to stabilize and support lasting progress.
Intensive In-Home Services
Designed for families dealing with serious emotional and behavioral disruptions in the home. Our therapists work directly with your family to manage crisis situations, strengthen relationships, and improve your child’s functioning where it matters most.
Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST)
An intensive, evidence-based program for teens with complex behavioral issues, including those involved in the juvenile justice system. MST addresses ADHD and related concerns by working across the home, school, and community.
Day Treatment
Our Day Treatment program combines academics with therapeutic services for children needing more support than a traditional classroom. This structured program helps kids with ADHD and other behavioral challenges build coping skills, focus, and thrive academically and socially.
If your child’s attention problems are disrupting their life, and your family’s, you don’t have to handle it alone. Our team can help you determine the right level of care and connect you to treatment quickly.
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