ADHD in College

By: Buchholz, Caitlin

Posted: 5/2/07

ADHD is most often a disorder discussed in childhood. It is seldom addressed in a college environment. As college students, we often joke around by claiming we have ADD because we cannot concentrate, we procrastinate like it is our job and we would rather focus on things in our lives we find more stimulating, like friends and fun.

I know most of my fellow seniors about to graduate are suffering from something called "Senioritis" which may resemble a mild form of ADHD because schoolwork is the last thing on our minds. However, ADHD is a real neurological disorder that disrupts the way a person functions in school, work and social environments.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is often first recognized in childhood by either a parent or teacher. However, ADHD can go unrecognized and unassisted until adulthood. A common misconception of ADHD is that when a child with ADHD graduates high school, they no longer require treatment for their diagnosis.

People often think ADHD is a childhood disease that is outgrown by the time they enter the college environment. Upon entering college an adult with ADHD tends to continue to experience problems with inattention. Of children with ADHD, 60 percent to 70 percent continue to have significant attention problems as adults. Problems with hyperactivity do not often occur in adulthood because hyperactivity decreases during adolescence.

College students with ADHD will have several of the following symptoms: poor organization and time management, reading problems, poor note-taking, poor self-esteem, impatience, tardiness, mood swings, difficulty sleeping or awaking in the morning, inappropriate social skills or too much time socializing, confusion about goals, and procrastination.

If you feel you have several of the symptoms and have never had a diagnosis of ADHD, you first need to be sure that these symptoms are not secondary to other medical conditions such as depression or anxiety. You should see a healthcare professional who will address your concerns by performing the appropriate assessments and testing.

If you are diagnosed with ADHD there a several different ways you can help control your symptoms. Seeking helpful accommodations at your school can improve your academic performance. You may use note-takers, get extended time for tests or use the writing center. You may also develop certain supportive strategies such as practicing good self-care, getting enough rest and exercise and adapting ways to reduce stress. Setting appropriate goals and priorities may help you stay on the right track.

Your doctor may also prescribe certain stimulant medications such Ritalin, Adderal, Dexedrine, and Concerta or a non-stimulant medication such as Strattera. These medications should never be used without a prescription.

These medications have many side effects, so if you are taking them without a prescription you are putting yourself at serious risk. Some side effects include anorexia, insomnia, restlessness, tremors, palpitations, and increase in heart rate and blood pressure. Strattera can also cause suicidal thoughts. It is important to remember that medications should not be the only treatment for ADHD. Medications should always be used in conjunction with supportive therapies.

Each person with a diagnosis of ADHD will experience the disorder differently. A management method that works for one person will not necessarily work for another person. If you have a diagnosis of ADHD finding the right treatment regimen is necessary in order to manage your symptoms and succeed in your college career.