Starting college is such an exciting time in teens’ lives! You’re meeting new people, trying out new activities, and you probably have a lot more independence than you ever have, especially with school.
However, with all of these opportunities come some challenges, particularly for a student who has ADHD. You might notice that, because of all of this independence, there is less structure in your schedule and support from your teachers (/professors). You have to balance your studies, extra curricular activities like sports or clubs, and your social life. This can prove to be difficult to manage on your own, and you are thrust into the expectation without practice or notice.
If you have been feeling like this transition hasn’t been easy and need some tips, there are plenty of things you can do to set yourself up for success.
Here is a good place to start:
Attendance- GO TO CLASS
It counts even if your professor isn’t on top of you about it
Skipping classes will lower your grade
Professors won’t be inclined to help you out if you always skip their class
Even if the class is too easy or boring, show up
Realistic expectations
Don’t sign up for early classes if it’s hard for you to make it in time
Schedule your classes for when your attention is at its best
Many kids with ADHD tend to do better with classes that are from noon on, because they are not morning people
Some people with ADHD have a hard time waking up
Try to sign up for classes that fit your personality and will keep your interest
Organizational skills
Get a planner or a calendar and fill in your weekly schedule
Keep track of your assignments (day-to-day is best)
Some kids with ADHD have trouble remembering when assignments are due, tests are scheduled, and planning
Each class will have a syllabus either online, handed out on day one of class, or both, and you can use this to fill in your planner and calendar
Electronic calendars can send you email reminders and phone notifications a few days and hours before assignments and tests are due
Sleep!!!!
Kids with ADHD struggle with sleep, and even neurotypical kids struggle with adapting to a good sleep schedule at the start of college
Lack of sleep will make it more difficult to focus in classes
Being tired can also lead to irritability and impulsive decision making
Aim for 8 hours of sleep and a consistent sleep schedule, even on non-school days
Sleep in on non-school days and go to bed earlier on school days
Work before play
One of the most challenging parts of college is saying no to friends who want to hang out when you need to be studying or working
It can be tempting to procrastinate your work and prioritize seeing friends, especially if they have an opposite class or daily schedule
All college campuses have resources available for kids with ADHD, which you can find in the college’s learning support services
You may need to provide documentation to receive services
Don’t wait too long to reach out for help if you are struggling managing your responsibilities
Take your meds
Use your ADHD meds as prescribed by your doctor
Don’t skip dosages (or try not to at least)
Resist the urge to misuse your meds to pull all-nighters and cram for tests
Misusing your prescription is dangerous, but also can make it more difficult to concentrate in the long run, and might disrupt your sleep schedule
Talk to your dr if your meds don’t seem to fit your needs anymore now that you are older
Join a club
The first few weeks of college might feel a little lonely or overwhelming
With so many options and so many different people, it can be hard to find your niche
Join a club to try and meet people with the same interests
Before long you will have great friends and a busy social calendar
If you have ADHD and feel like you have been struggling to adapt to your college schedule and manage your responsibilities, you can always reach out for more support from a teen therapist. Amel Counseling & Consulting can help you with your organizational, social, and time management skills. Call today for a free, 15-minute consultation!