Top tips for students with ADHD to get ready for the term ahead
Returning to college or university after the summer is always a challenge. With growing independence comes more responsibility and a need for improved self-organisation. Students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can find it difficult to adjust to this, especially if they are studying independently or are away from home for the first time. Whether you have enrolled in a new course or are simply looking for some reassurance, we’ve got some top tips to help get this term off to a flying start:
Plan Ahead And Get Organised
Being organised and planning ahead can be difficult for someone with ADHD, yet it can make a huge difference. If you have a lot to organise, dedicate some time specifically for doing this, and ask someone to help you with it, to guarantee you are prepared. Make sure you know which courses you are taking, when the term starts, and if there are any resources you need. If you need to visit different campuses or need to travel to college, then plan your route out, giving yourself lots of time, so as not to put yourself under pressure.
Keep your resources in an organised manner, make sure you have easy access to what you need, and it is easy to find. If organisation is not your strong point, here are some ideas to help you out:
- Create a designated study space with minimal distractions, with everything you need. Tidy it regularly, ideally every day!
- Not only is stationery great fun to buy and collect, but it can be really useful too! Some examples include planners, post-it notes, to-do lists, and notice boards.
- Technology can also be a great resource to stay organised. There are lots of productivity apps available and even something as simple as setting a reminder on your phone calendar can help you stay organised. It is important to note that whilst technology is great it can also be a hindrance at times too, and too many notifications can be a distraction. It is all about getting the balance right. You might find Singlecare’s article on 7 ADHD apps to stay organised a useful read.
- Keep track of classes, meetings, appointments and your social life using a diary, Google calendar or an academic planner. Try not to use more than one of these or you’re likely to miss things and double-book yourself. You’re best to find the one method that works for you and stick to it.
Use Technology
There are many apps and websites to support you with your study skills. Here are some of our favourites:
Brain.fm provides music to improve focus and productivity. This is a paid app with a free trial. If you want a completely free version, try searching for “deep-focus music”, or similar on YouTube.
Speechify reads online documents out loud. You can also scan book pages with a phone camera and it will read them for you. This is really helpful for slow readers with long reading lists.
Audionote is a notepad and voice recorder. It’s designed for iPads and will appeal to those who like attractive visuals as you can also add pictures and diagrams.
Set Realistic Expectations
It is important to be realistic with any goals or expectations that you are setting yourself. The last thing you want to do is set yourself up to fail by putting too much pressure on yourself. By planning ahead and utilising your timetable, you will be able to make educated decisions, and hopefully, keep your expectations realistic and achievable.
It is important to note that no matter how much planning we do, there are always going to be days that don’t go to plan. That’s why you should always build some flexibility into your timetable and don’t be too hard on yourself.
Eat a well-balanced diet
Another one you probably know, certain food types can affect symptoms of ADHD. Going to university or college often means leaving home and it can be the first time someone takes charge of what they eat. Try to eat a well-balanced diet and avoid too much sugar, caffeine and alcohol.
Monitor ADHD Symptoms
When it comes to ADHD, it’s important to listen to your body. A change in circumstances can affect symptoms of ADHD and if you notice any significant changes, you need to see a medical professional. This is particularly important if you take ADHD medication, as this may need to be adjusted.
Get Vaccinated
Whether or not you get vaccinated against Covid-19 is of course a personal choice. However, the virus has been known to spread very quickly among students, so it’s wise to get as much protection as you can. Students should also make sure they’ve had the MenACWY vaccine to prevent meningitis and septicaemia, which can be deadly.
Know Where To Get Help
It’s not uncommon for adults with ADHD to experience anxiety and depression alongside their other symptoms. Colleges and universities will each have their own support network for students with mental health conditions. If you are struggling, then please reach out to someone who knows how to help you. If you have mental health concerns and don’t want to use the services provided by your college or university, here is a list of available Mental Health Charity Helplines that offer support.
Further Help And Guidance
Please contact us if you would like to find out more about the ADHD assessments and evidence-based treatments available at The ADHD Centre. You can reach us on 0800 061 4276 or by email at enquiries@adhdcentre.co.uk.
Free Resources
Our FREE E-Book Practical tips and techniques for students with ADHD is full of advice about studying with ADHD.
Study skills tips for adults with ADHD
Our If you struggle to focus you might find this blog useful Seven ways for Students with ADHD to maintain focus
Updated September 2022
