Treating ADHD: addressing the needs of college students
1Department of Family Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|May 15, 2012
Summary
Undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in college students can lead to academic and personal issues. Early identification and intervention are crucial for academic success and well-being.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Higher Education
Background:
- College students may present with undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- Symptoms can manifest as academic difficulties, accidents, lateness, disruptive behavior, and alcohol abuse.
- Recognizing and assessing ADHD is critical for student support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the impact of undiagnosed ADHD in college students.
- To emphasize the importance of thorough ADHD assessment and diagnosis.
- To inform about available accommodations and management strategies for students with ADHD.
Main Methods:
- Review of common symptoms and consequences of undiagnosed ADHD in a college population.
- Emphasis on the role of clinicians in identification and referral.
- Discussion of diagnostic evaluation and available campus accommodations.
Main Results:
- Undiagnosed ADHD presents with diverse behavioral and academic challenges.
- Comprehensive assessment is necessary to identify ADHD and co-occurring conditions.
- Campus accommodations and management strategies can support students with ADHD.
Conclusions:
- Early identification and diagnosis of ADHD in college students are essential.
- Referral for thorough evaluation and appropriate accommodations can improve academic outcomes.
- Proactive management strategies are key to student success with ADHD.
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