Tips for College Students With ADHD
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects about 5% of adults in the United States. People with ADHD may experience challenges with staying focused, completing tasks, managing time, and organizing their lives. For college students with ADHD, these challenges can be particularly demanding. However, there are various strategies that can help students with ADHD navigate college life successfully. Here are top tips for college students with ADHD.
Develop a Schedule
To manage time effectively with ADHD, it is essential to develop a routine schedule. A detailed and structured plan can help college students with ADHD stay on top of their responsibilities. Make a to-do-list of all the tasks for a day and space them out throughout the day. Students can use visual planners or calendars for easy reminders of their schedule.
Minimize Distractions
Distractions can be a significant obstacle for individuals with ADHD. College students with ADHD should identify their most common distractions and find ways to eliminate or reduce them. For example, study in a quiet room or a library with fewer people around to minimize disturbances. Avoid using phones or other devices that can be distractive while studying. If devices must be used, download applications to block notifications or restrict usage during specific times.
Study Environment
Choosing the right study environment is essential for students with ADHD. Students may require different study conditions as opposed to their peers without ADHD. Preferably, find quiet, low-traffic areas with adequate light for studying. Small group studying or studying with a partner can help individuals with ADHD to stay focused. Engaging in exercises like stretching or walking can be a good way to reinforce good behavior and keep the brain functioning effectively.
Connect with Support Services
College students with ADHD should take advantage of the resources provided by the school’s student disability services. Students can work with a designated counselor who can offer guidance and support for academic success. Professors and academic advisors can also offer help with study skills and refer students to appropriate support services.
Take Breaks
It could be challenging to work on a task for an extended period continually; therefore, taking a break can help ADHD students stay focused and maintain a positive attitude. A 10- to 15-minute break can help reduce stress and fatigue. Breaks can be used to engage in brief physical exercises or stretches before returning to study.
In conclusion, College can be a difficult stage for individuals with ADHD, mainly due to the prevalence of new and challenging situations. But there is hope as students can learn cognitive-behavioral strategies to manage the challenges. By creating strategies that work, prioritizing specific needs such as prioritizing schedules, studying effectively, connecting with support services, taking breaks, and minimizing distractions, students with ADHD can succeed in college.