Continuing treatment with ADDERALL XR, in accordance with the ADHD treatment plan prescribed by your teen's doctor, is just as important as beginning treatment.² To help your teen keep up with his or her treatment schedule, consider the following strategies:

• Help your teen learn about ADHD. The better your teen understands the condition, the more likely he or she may be in taking this medicine as prescribed
• Discourage self-directed medication "holidays" without first discussing it with his or her doctor. Although performing well in school may be some people's main reason for seeking treatment, ADHD is a "24/7" condition that affects all areas of life—working, driving, socializing and so on. Teens should not stop taking medication during summers or school breaks without first discussing it with their doctors
• Give encouragement by pointing out improvements. Sometimes it's difficult for the individual to notice the subtle changes that ADHD medication may produce over time. If your teen is reluctant to continue treatment or doesn't want to be bothered by taking medicine, point out changes and accomplishments that you have noticed since treatment began
• Make it a rule. Just as you may have rules for chores and expected behavior, you can establish taking medication as a rule your teen must follow. You should also specify what the consequences will be (e.g., removal of a privilege) if your teen does not follow this rule

Quick tips which may help build teen self-esteem

• Recognize and build on existing intellectual, artistic and athletic strengths
• Teach responsibility by giving your teen responsibilities that he or she can handle successfully
• Give your teen a say in determining the consequences of negative behavior—this can help to reinforce self-discipline and a sense of independence
• Review specific problems, along with all available options with your teen—this can help them to develop more effective problem-solving skills
• Does your teenager understand that you love and support him or her unconditionally? Let your teen know that you will get through the smooth times—and the hard times—together