UW Oshkosh Counseling Center

Attention Deficit Disorder

Attention deficit disorder affects an estimated 6% to 8% of the general population according to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA). Those who go undiagnosed with adult ADD may struggle to keep up with schoolwork, to keep a job, stay in a marriage or stay out of trouble in school, at home or with the law. Sometimes the simplest things can end up getting them in trouble due to a lack of impulse control.

The Counseling Center works with the Student Health Center to assess, evaluate, and treat Attention Deficit and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is important to seek an appropriate diagnosis for ADD. There are a number of diagnostic tools available to mental health providers to make an appropriate diagnosis. Once diagnosed, there are several treatment options available which should be discussed carefully with a mental health provider. If you are diagnosed with ADD, you may find the suggestions below helpful in managing this disorder while attending school.

If you feel that you have symptoms of ADD/HD, or need support developing skills to manage your symptoms, please contact the Counseling Center at 424-2061. If you require academic accommodations under ADA you will need to get a comprehensive assessment from an off campus psychologist or physician.

Pointers for College Students

Get a professional diagnosis and ask for information about the disorder. Attention Deficit Disorder represents a real challenge for college students
Develop a close connection with a physician, a psychologist, and other qualified professionals. A professional can answer your questions and inform you of any progress in the treatments for ADD.
Educate yourself. Read books and other educational material about ADD. Learn from other ADD persons and share your experiences with them.
Educate your family. The more your family understands ADD the better they will be able to understand and help you.
Join a support group. Connect with national and local organizations for children and adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. This will give you an outlet to relieve stress while at the same time learning ways to help yourself deal with ADD.
Have a positive attitude. Encourage yourself to overcome ADD challenges on a daily basis.
Practice smart scheduling. Schedule your classes to fit your personal characteristics. If you are more motivated in the morning sign up for morning classes or if you are more motivated in the afternoon sign up for afternoon classes.
Consider scheduling a break between classes so that you can get outside for awhile or clear your mi d before your next class.
Set goals for yourself. Write down short-term and long-term goals and keep them some place you can look at them daily. This will help you stay focused. Reward yourself when you achieve your goals.
Manage your time wisely. Keep daily to-do lists visible throughout the day and try to maintain a consistent schedule.
Follow a daily routine. It will be easier to deal with ADD on a daily basis if your routine is clear and consistent.
Use bite-size tasks. Break up lengthy assignments into smaller portions. Larger assignments seem impossible for ADD persons. If they are broken down into manageable portions you can set realistic goals for completion. Provide short breaks as goals are completed.
Monitor your progress. Keep daily records of school homework, grades, and attendance. Ask for help in taking corrective measures in problem areas. Reward yourself for jobs well done.
Take care of yourself. By maintaining the proper balance of exercise, rest, and a good diet you will be m ore in control of your ADD.
Discourage negative self-talk. Talking down to yourself will only make matters worse. It will also prevent you from learning from your failures. Change your perspective on problems. Treat problems as challenges to be met.
Learn how to control your emotions. Depression, low self-esteem, discouragement, and anger can overwhelm students with ADD. Be prepared with coping strategies to deal with negative emotions.
Participate in rewarding activities that will boost your self-esteem and confidence level. In other words, spend a good amount of time on positive things at which you are good.
Take advantage of your resources. Talk to your counselors and professors. They are there to help you.
Contact your campus Counseling Center. Professional counselors can help you in your battle with ADD. They also have resources and books in their Self Help Library at the Center. Through confidential sessions the counselors will help you set goals, manage your time, and cope with everyday college life. Please call to make an appointment at 424-2061.
Meet with the director of Students Challenged with Disabilities on your campus. Ask for reasonable accommodations to meet your ADD needs. For more information, please contact the Dean of Students Office at 424-3100.
Meet with your professors and inform them of your ADD. Ask them to help you achieve success in the class to the best of your potential.