Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a chronic mental health disorder. ADHD is no longer thought of as just a childhood disorder. It is now understood that ADHD manifests in childhood and can remain with a person well into his adult life. This disorder can affect a person's academic and social success throughout her college career.
Basics
Colleges are reacting to the increased presence of ADHD among their student body and are taking steps to help these people achieve more success academically, but some of the burden rests on the individual student.
Facts
All colleges and universities that receive funding from the federal government are, by law, required to provide reasonable accommodations for students with ADHD, notes ADDResources.org. The extent of the accommodations varies from school to school, so it is important when choosing a college to research and find one that offers considerable support for ADHD.
Significance
According to National Public Radio, or NPR, the lack of continued support from home that occurs when students enter college can increase the stress level of people with ADHD. This can intensify the decision-making problems that people with ADHD often experience. Despite this, a person with ADHD should not avoid going to college, but instead should take extra steps to help reduce transition stress and achieve academic success.
Tips
When a student with ADHD enters college, he should take steps to ensure his own success. Visit with an academic adviser to help decide on classes and create a schedule. Classes that start later in the day are recommended, because waking up early can be a difficult task for a person with ADHD. Also, lack of sleep can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD, therefore, having classes that begin later in the day will increase the chances of the student getting enough sleep.
Prior to classes beginning, it is important to set up organizational tools and schedule time to maintain these tools throughout the semester. Also, visit with the college's disabilities office to ensure that all the possible services provided are received.
In addition, setting aside a regular time for exercise and physical activity will help a person with ADHD increase his concentration and focus.
Considerations
ADHD can remain undiagnosed into adulthood, and for some people it becomes apparent in college.
ADHD does not impact a person's intelligence, but it can affect her learning style. Throughout high school, a student's high intelligence level may mask the presence of ADHD. ADHD may become apparent as college course work becomes more challenging and requires increased time-management skills.
Colleges offer many services to ensure a person with ADHD has a fair academic chance. Therefore, if ADHD is suspected, immediately contact the academic counseling services and request to be evaluated.
