It used to be widely believed that attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) only affected individuals during childhood and that the disorder would naturally disappear during puberty or adolescence. However, over the past two decades, there has been a significant rise in the number of college students who struggle with ADHD. Studies show that college students with ADHD face more academic challenges than their peers.
At Solace Treatment Center in Whitter, California, we provide ADHD treatment for college students who are struggling with this condition. Our treatment options can include therapy and medication management, tailored to meet individual needs and diagnoses. Contact us today to begin your journey towards improved mental health.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurological disorder that is typically diagnosed in childhood, but its prevalence has been increasing among college students in recent years. It is estimated that about one in nine college students have some form of ADHD, although many cases may go undiagnosed.
For college students with ADHD, daily life on campus and academic work can be particularly challenging. The disorder can make it difficult to concentrate, stay focused, and process new experiences and stimuli. The lack of parental support that many college students experience, especially those who are first-generation or coming from highly involved home lives, can compound these challenges, leading to social impairments and an increased risk of dropping out of college before graduation.
At Solace Treatment Center in Whitter, California, we offer customized ADHD treatment for college students struggling with this disorder. Our approach may include therapy and medication management to help students manage their symptoms and thrive in their academic and personal lives.
The DSM-5 criteria are commonly used by mental health professionals to evaluate potential ADHD symptoms in children and young adults. These criteria are divided into two main categories:
Inattention: To receive an official ADHD diagnosis, college students should exhibit at least five of the following symptoms for six months or more:
Hyperactivity-Impulsivity: College students should exhibit at least five of these symptoms for six months or more to be diagnosed with ADHD:
Informally, college students with ADHD may have difficulty getting along with others due to the influx of new experiences, especially when new to a college campus. This can cause them to become introverted and be isolated.
Determining the type of ADHD that an individual has depends on the particular symptoms they exhibit. If there are more symptoms related to inattention, then an inattention type diagnosis is probable. On the other hand, if there are more symptoms related to hyperactivity-impulsivity, a hyperactive-impulsive type diagnosis is more likely. A combined type diagnosis may be made if symptoms do not fit exclusively within one specific type.
The exact cause of ADHD in college students is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Research suggests that abnormalities in brain structure and function may play a role, specifically in the areas related to attention and impulse control. Environmental factors such as exposure to toxins or prenatal drug or alcohol use may also contribute to the development of ADHD. Additionally, high levels of stress, poor sleep, and unhealthy lifestyle habits can exacerbate ADHD symptoms in college students.
Untreated ADHD can significantly harm college students as they navigate through this crucial phase of their lives. However, there are several effective ways to manage this disorder and help students thrive. The first step is to develop mindfulness by building a support system around the student, including smaller class sizes or fewer credits per semester. The college counseling and disability offices can provide excellent resources for accommodations such as notifying professors of the diagnosis and providing tutoring services with personalized instruction. In severe cases, professional help may be required, ranging from therapy to medication and outpatient treatments. Working with the right professionals is essential in taking the necessary steps to improve mental health.
Outpatient treatment centers provide college students with ADHD access to mental health professionals who specialize in treating the disorder. Our professionals can provide therapy and medication management to help students better manage their symptoms.
The outpatient setting is often more flexible and less disruptive to a student’s schedule than inpatient treatment, allowing them to continue their studies while receiving treatment.
Additionally, outpatient treatment centers offer support groups and other resources that can help students with ADHD connect with others who share their struggles.
Overall, an outpatient treatment center can provide college students with ADHD the support they need to thrive academically and personally.
Managing ADHD in college students can be a challenging task that affects their daily lives. Based on the symptoms exhibited, a diagnosis of inattention type, hyperactive-impulsive type, or combined type can be made. However, with proper treatment, the symptoms of ADHD can be alleviated, and the affected students can achieve long-term recovery.
At Solace Treatment Center, we offer confidential initial assessments and tailor treatment plans that suit the unique needs of college students. If you or someone you know is struggling with ADHD, we can help you manage it more effectively. Contact us today to learn more about our services in Whittier, CA.
Solace Treatment Center is an outpatient program that can help college students. We understand that each individual will have different needs and are prepared to come up with a customized treatment plan.
At Solace Treatment, we treat a wide range of mental health and substance use disorders. In addition to treating substance use disorder, we are also equipped to treat these mental health disorders:
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction and mental health disorders, please contact our team to find the treatment that best fits your needs.
Solace Treatment is licensed and/or certified by the State Department of Health Care Services.
License #: 191240AP
Expiration: 09/30/2025
