ADHD: Off to College
September 11th, 2008 at 9:22 am (ADHD Awareness Week, College Students)
When students leave the parental nest and head off to college, they have to take a lot more responsibility for themselves. While academic issues might be expected, there are also relationship issues that often arise. High frustration levels can lead to poor self-esteem and isolation, while lack of social skills can lead to inappropriate behavior, such as spending too much time socializing.
According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), supportive strategies such as practicing good self-care, getting enough exercise and rest, and learning ways to reduce stress can help keep academics and relationships on target. Additionally, working with a coach (see sidebar) or peer study group can keep the student with AD/HD on an even keel, providing a steadying influence in the free-for-all of college life.
College students also often embark on their first serious romantic relationships, which can be negatively impacted by their AD/HD. (See Affairs of the Heart, below.)
