You must do the things you think you cannot do.

–Eleanor Roosevelt

(ADD) ADHD and College

The Challenges of (ADD) ADHD in College

If you are a college student, you've probably already figured out that this is one of the best and most difficult times of your life. Going to college is a unique opportunity to meet many different people, learn about a wide range of subjects, experiment with different ways of living and thinking, and lay a foundation for professional pursuits ahead.

College also is an extremely challenging time of life. If you are like most students, this is your first time living away from home and the most academically demanding experience you've ever had. You are now in charge of how you use your time. You are expected to attend classes and study each day without a teacher or parent to help you stay on track. You must organize your own schedule, choose your friends and social activities, and figure out when, how much, and even how to study.

The new independence combined with the academic demands of college life is tough for most students. But for students with ADHD, these challenges can feel overwhelming. Managing your time well is more important than ever now, and this can feel nearly impossible. If you have ADHD and feel you need help navigating through the demands of college life, you've come to the right place. At the Edge Foundation, we believe that coaching can mean the difference between success and failure for college students with ADHD.

What Is an (ADD) ADHD Coach?

An ADHD coach is trained to help people who have ADHD. An ADHD coach can help you overcome your challenges and make the most of your strengths. He or she is not a doctor or teacher but rather an advocate who works with you to help you manage your life to the fullest.

  • A coach gets to know you and finds ways to help you succeed academically and socially.
  • You and your coach talk regularly and check in about how your studying and personal life are going.
  • Your coach can help you find strategies to stay organized, utilize your time well, and stay on track in your classes.
  • Your coach can help remind you to make good choices and take care of yourself emotionally and physically.
  • Your coach also can help you improve the relationships in your life with friends, peers, professors, and family members.
  • Your coach is there to talk to, strategize with, and advocate for you as long as you need.

You've Got an Edge!

Yes, living with ADHD can be frustrating. Along the way you've discovered that people don't always understand you. Regular tasks like studying, remembering things, and communicating with people you care about can feel harder than they should. Some of the coping strategies you learned to use when you were younger may not be as effective now that you are facing the new challenges of college life. But you should feel proud that you've made it this far. You've earned it. Contact the Edge Foundation today to learn how to get the edge you need to make the most of your college experience.

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(ADD) ADHD in the News

ADHD Coach Training -- Sign Up Now Open

University of Virginia study links Adolescent Girls with (ADD) ADHD with an Increased Risk for Eating Disorders

Edge Foundation board member, Nancy Ratey, releases new book: THE DISORGANIZED MIND: Coaching your ADHD brain to get the most of your tasks, time, and talents

Read about Neil Peterson and his family in ADDitude Magazine.

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Meet the Edge Coaches

The team of Edge Coaches offers broad backgrounds and interests. Read through the bios and find a coach that fits you.

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