Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a neurodevelopmental disorder commonly diagnosed in childhood. Though some children grow out of it, ADHD persists into adulthood in most instances. ADHD impacts an individual’s ability to regulate their attention and affects executive functioning skills such as organisation, working memory, and time management. These challenges affect one’s ability to function optimally in various aspects of life, including academia. However, with the proper support systems in place, people with ADHD can thrive and are often excellent, enthusiastic students. At Sunbeam Education, we support students with ADHD by using learning methods ideally suited to ADHD brains. Several of us have ADHD ourselves, so we understand the ADHD brain from the inside out and have first-hand experience of what works.
The Importance of Supporting Students With ADHD
Understanding what ADHD is, how it impacts each individual, and how to combat its challenges are key components to ensuring ADHD students receive the necessary assistance. ADHD varies hugely from person to person, so there is no one-size-fits-all method for support. Developing a thorough understanding of a student’s unique presentation of ADHD makes them (and their support network) better equipped to handle and excel in their academic responsibilities.
However, our focus as Sunbeam goes beyond simply managing symptoms. We aim to aid in fostering development academically, emotionally, and socially, enlisting each student’s unique strengths to help them build a way of life that supports them while they work towards their goals.
This article aims to shed light on the diverse types of ADHD support available, which can enable those who grapple with this disorder to manage their symptoms effectively, utilise their strengths, and thrive in their educational endeavours. A well-rounded education doesn’t simply focus on the range of abilities in a class; it also pays attention to life outside of the classroom, providing students with every opportunity to succeed in a comfortable and understanding environment.
We have created a list of various effective support strategies that are worth considering if you are a student or parent/guardian/teacher of a student with ADHD:
Pharmaceutical Treatment
The decision to use ADHD medication is very personal, so we are careful not to encourage or discourage it. Medicine cannot cure ADHD, but can help reduce negative symptoms and improve functioning. Medication is often the first line of treatment offered by GPs, but is generally considered to be most effective when utilised alongside other treatments such as therapy, ADHD coaching and healthy lifestyle choices.
Stimulant drugs like Concerta, Ritalin, or Adderall are commonly prescribed, as are non-stimulant options like atomoxetine or guanfacine. It’s crucial to note that while these medications can be beneficial, they also have potential side effects, and there may be some trial and error involved in finding the right prescription and dose. It is important to work closely with a doctor, including regular check-ups after the initial prescription, to ensure the best option is found and that the medication works as it should.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy offers a vital lifeline for those grappling with ADHD. Addressing symptoms and developing coping mechanisms equips individuals to better manage the condition in everyday scenarios. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can particularly aid in modifying negative thought patterns into more constructive ones. In contrast, behavioural therapy focuses on implementing routines conducive to higher attention levels and increased self-control. Crucially, psychotherapy tailors strategies to each person’s unique experience with ADHD, thereby promoting significant improvements in their overall quality of life.
ADHD Coaching
An ADHD Coach is a specialist with expert knowledge of ADHD, who works with individuals with ADHD to help them understand and manage their unique brain wiring. Coaches offer helpful education on the impacts of ADHD, both positive and negative, and assist ADHD students in creating support structures and strategies that will enable them to work towards their goals. A good coach tailors these strategies to each individual, helping them identify and maintain habits that work with their particular set of strengths and challenges.
An ADHD coach generally works with clients to develop their executive functioning skills, helping them organise their daily tasks and work through their responsibilities methodically. This can include creating checklists, breaking tasks into manageable sections, setting time limits for tasks, and learning how to plan and organise time more effectively. These strategies allow students to become more self-reliant and independent, which fosters increased confidence and self-belief that will be beneficial far beyond their school careers. Coaching also helps ADHD students foster a positive self-image, as coaches typically help ADHD students identify their strengths, interests, and passions.
Parenting Interventions
For younger children with ADHD, it can be beneficial for parents to get involved in coaching or behavioural management strategies. Parenting interventions often involve therapists and educational experts such as ADHD coaches and tutors working with parents and guardians to develop strategies that will help manage their child’s ADHD symptoms.
Educational Support
Many students with ADHD struggle with traditional classroom settings. A positive educational environment is one where the teacher understands and accommodates the needs of an ADHD student. This can drastically improve academic performance. Accommodations could include modified learning materials, adjusting teaching methods, allowing extra time for assignments and tests, and encouraging active learning. At Sunbeam Education, we offer ADHD coaching and ADHD tutoring, in order to provide valuable one-to-one support for students with ADHD.
ADHD Support Groups
ADHD support groups can provide a sense of community and understanding, which can be particularly helpful when faced with the challenges of having ADHD, or parenting/teaching a child with ADHD. Here, people share personal experiences, advice, and coping strategies. Your local area may have a support group you can attend, but if not, there are plenty of online communities to choose from!
Lifestyle Modifications
Healthy habits such as eating balanced meals, exercising regularly, ensuring adequate sleep, and limiting screen time can go a long way in managing ADHD symptoms. Something we see regularly in students with ADHD is a tendency towards excessive smartphone and social media use. This significantly affects their ability to regulate their dopamine reward system, leading to low sleep quality, irritation, and often burnout. We encourage our ADHD students to get outside, take up hobbies, and spend time socialising - all of which are sustainable and healthy ways of boosting dopamine. This type of work-life balance is essential for maintaining good mental health, which in turn allows students to feel more motivated and determined to achieve their academic goals.
Friendships
Friendships can be incredibly beneficial for individuals with ADHD. They offer a sense of belonging and acceptance, helping to boost confidence and self-esteem. Within friendship groups, people with ADHD can learn essential social skills and gain different perspectives. Companionship can also act as a motivation to manage ADHD symptoms more effectively, as maintaining relationships often requires focus, patience, and organisation. In essence, having a supportive circle of friends can serve as a solid support system for those with ADHD, heightening their well-being and quality of life.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
We have seen significant improvements in students with ADHD through mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness (which means staying aware and present in the current moment) can help reduce distractions, improve focus, and help students get to know the way their mind works. With time and consistent practice, this can help prevent them from falling into regular ADHD traps such as rumination, forgetfulness, and procrastination. Similarly, relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can help to control impulsivity and hyperactivity.
