Managing ADHD in College

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can present unique challenges during college years, affecting focus, time management, organization, and academic performance. Whether you’re navigating classes, building independence, or balancing social life and responsibilities, understanding ADHD is the first step toward managing it effectively. With the right strategies, support, and treatment options, students with ADHD can thrive in both academic and personal life.
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What causes ADHD in young adults and college students?

ADHD is one of the most common childhood disorders, with an estimated 7 million U.S. children (11%) ever diagnosed as of 2022. While researchers don’t know what causes ADHD, studies suggest it can be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Growing up is already hard, and for those with ADHD, it can be even harder. About half of those diagnosed with ADHD have moderate to severe problems at school and in social settings. More than 75% of children with ADHD have at least one other behavioral or mental health condition.
It’s important to spot the signs and symptoms of ADHD early and find the right ADHD medication or treatment to help youth and teens manage it so they can live healthier lives.

Signs and Symptoms of ADHD in College Students

Does your college-aged student show signs of ADHD? Recognizing the symptoms can help you find the right support and resources.
ADHD symptoms often become noticeable early in life and can continue into adulthood, affecting academic performance, relationships, and daily responsibilities. Here are some common signs and symptoms of ADHD in young adults and college students.
ADHD symptoms related to inattention

College students, or young adults with ADHD symptoms related to inattention may often:

  • Be easily distracted with a short attention span
  • Make careless mistakes in schoolwork
  • Forget things and lose important items like glasses, schoolwork, textbooks, wallets, etc.
  • Dislike or avoid tasks that require focus and mental effort
  • Have trouble paying attention to details, organizing, or completing tasks
  • Seem unable to listen to or follow instructions
ADHD Symptoms related to hyperactivity-impulsivity

College students, or young adults with ADHD symptoms related to hyperactivity or impulsivity may often:

  • Have difficulty sitting still, especially in quiet settings
  • Fidget a lot or move excessively
  • Interrupt conversations or shout out answers in class
  • Appear to be always in motion, as if driven by a motor
  • Struggle to wait their turn
  • Act without thinking and have little or no sense of danger
What are the long-term impacts of ADHD on youth and College Students?

If left untreated, ADHD can cause social problems and self-esteem issues that last well into adulthood. College student and young adults with ADHD face unique challenges, but with the right support and treatment, they can overcome these hurdles and thrive.

Mental health resources to guide your journey

ADHD in College students is an important topic because it affects a considerable portion of the adolescent population.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 8.7% of individuals experience ADHD at some point in their lives. Among those affected, nearly half face significant challenges due to the severity of their symptoms. ADHD tends to be more common in males, with a lifetime prevalence of 13%, compared to 4.2% in females.
Given the prevalence of symptoms of ADHD in the teenage population, it is important that families and health professionals recognize the symptoms of ADHD and be aware of appropriate treatment methods.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, symptoms must appear in more than one setting. For example, a college student might experience symptoms both in academic environments and in social or home settings.

As the CDC reports, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that younger children be treated with behavior therapy before seeking treatment with ADHD medications.

For college students with ADHD, the most effective approach typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.

The most common ADHD medications are stimulant medications, such as Adderall and Ritalin. According to the CDC, stimulant medications work quickly, and the majority of children who take them show a reduction in symptoms of ADHD.

While ADHD medications are effective, they can come along with some side effects, such as low appetite and sleep problems. Fortunately, there are multiple stimulant medications available, and pediatricians can work with teens to determine which medication seems to have the fewest side effects. Despite the side effects of stimulant medications, one additional benefit of them is that some research shows that young people are less likely to have problems with substance abuse if they take ADHD medications.

As previously noted, behavior therapy is also an important part of the ADHD treatment plan. According to the CDC, behavior therapy for ADHD in young people often includes the parents.

A therapist working with you and your college-aged child who has ADHD can help teach strategies like using positive reinforcement and establishing structure. When family members actively support and apply these techniques at home, they can make a significant impact on managing ADHD-related behaviors. How can I implement these strategies effectively? What positive reinforcement methods work best? Can you suggest ways to create daily structure?

An ADHD treatment plan may also include school-based strategies. For example, young people with ADHD may qualify for special education services and supports, which provide them with accommodations and even specialized instruction in organization and behavior to help them overcome symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention to lessen their impact on school work. According to the CDC, students with ADHD may be given accommodations such as extended time to complete tests, breaks for movement, or additional instructions to meet their needs.

ADHD Self-Screening

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Disclaimer: This screening tool is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a professional diagnosis. Your responses are confidential and will only be used to provide guidance or support.

Your healing journey starts here.

At School Source Behavioral Health, we understand that college life can be overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, you don’t have to face it alone. Our team of compassionate professionals is ready to listen and guide you toward the support and resources you need.
Fill out the form, and someone from our team will reach out to you promptly. Your well-being matters—take the first step today.
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