Arranging your Support
for the academic year 2024/2025

Navigating university with ADHD can present a unique set of challenges, but with the right strategies and support, you can still excel academically. Here are some common problems you may experience and some potential solutions:

1. Difficulty with Focus and Attention: Maintaining focus during lectures or while studying can be challenging.
   • Solution: Try using techniques like the Pomodoro method (working for short, focused intervals), finding a quiet study space, and minimizing distractions. Consider discussing medication options with a healthcare professional if appropriate.
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2. Procrastination: ADHD can make it difficult to initiate tasks or stick to deadlines.
   • Solution: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps, use to-do lists or apps, and set specific deadlines for each part. Consider working with one of our mentors to develop strategies to combat procrastination.
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3. Time Management: People with ADHD often struggle with time management and estimating how long tasks will take.
   • Solution: Use digital or physical planners (which we can provide), set alarms, and create a daily schedule. Practice time-blocking to allocate specific times for different tasks.
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4. Organization and Forgetfulness: Misplacing items, forgetting appointments, or losing track of assignments can be common.
   • Solution: Invest in organizational tools like calendars, planners, or apps. Establish routines and habits to keep things organized. Consider medication or non-medication strategies recommended by a healthcare professional.
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5. Impulsivity: ADHD may lead to impulsive decisions or actions, which can affect academic and personal life.
   • Solution: Pause before making important decisions, use self-regulation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness, and speak to us about developing impulse control strategies.
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6. Test Anxiety: The pressure of exams can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
   • Solution: ACT can help you practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, to manage anxiety. Request accommodations from your university's disability services, such as extended exam time or essay extensions (which you are entitled to through your DSA).
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7. Social Challenges: Building and maintaining relationships can be challenging due to impulsivity or inattention.
   • Solution: Consider joining study groups or clubs to foster connections with peers who share your interests. Communication and Mentoring can help improve social skills.
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8. Medication Management: If prescribed medication, keeping track of dosages and refills can be challenging.
   • Solution: Use pill organizers, set alarms or reminders, and work closely with a healthcare professional to find the right medication and dosage.
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9. Seeking Support: Many students with ADHD hesitate to seek help due to stigma or lack of awareness.
   • Solution: Reach out to us ACT Student Support as we have qualified counsellors and a disability service for support. With ACT you can join small support groups or seeking help to learn coping strategies.
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10. Advocating for Yourself: It's essential to communicate your needs to professors and university staff.
    • Solution: Be proactive in seeking accommodations through the disability services office. Talk to your professors about your ADHD and work together to find solutions that help you succeed.
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Remember that ADHD is a unique challenge, and what works for one person may not work for another. At ACT Student Support we tailor your support strategies to meet your specific needs.  ADHD doesn't define your abilities; with the right tools and support, you can thrive academically and personally.