Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder or AD(H)D may be defined as a neurodevelopmental difference. It has been described as:

“.. a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development and causes you difficulties in more than one area of your life (e.g both at work and at home)” (Hallowel and Burns).

People with AD(H)D may have difficulties with:

• Concentration, such as keeping focused in lectures and when reading
• Controlling the need to move, such as being unable to sit still
• Impulsive behaviour, such as interrupting others and not waiting their turn
• Organisational and time management skills
• Completing tasks or assignments
• Misplacing or losing possessions
• Feelings of frustration
• Restlessness, sometimes causing sleep difficulties
• Engaging in risk-taking behaviour

If you don’t have a childhood diagnosis, you need to approach your GP who can refer you for assessment by a mental health specialist trained in the diagnosis of AD(H)D. Alternatively you can approach a private psychiatrist in order to undertake assessment for AD(H)D.

There is no universal test for AD(H)D, and a medical professional may use a variety of methods during your assessment. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire or rating scale such as the ARSS (Adult ADHD Self-report Scale) and the DIVA (Diagnostic Interview for ADHD in adults).

Following assessment, if you are diagnosed with AD(H)D, treatment options should be discussed with you, including the possibility of medication.

In addition to this, your GP may refer you for a structured supportive psychological intervention focused on AD(H)D, with a regular follow-up in person or by phone. Treatments may also involve elements of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). 

When you meet with a Disability Adviser they will talk you through the support and adjustments which might be appropriate to your studies, such as:

My Adjustments

Any necessary support and adjustments to your teaching and learning will be recorded within a document known as My Adjustments (MAs). MAs will be shared with staff on a need-to-know basis to ensure that these can be implemented. Examples of adjustments could be the provision of teaching materials in advance, giving directed reading lists, or allowing for extended library loans.

MAs are created in collaboration with you, and will be discussed in detail with your adviser at your first appointment.

Assistive Technology

We have specialist IT rooms on campus with access to various software programmes including text-to-speech, speech-to-text, and mind-mapping tools.

Central Exam Adjustments

We can implement Central Exam Adjustments (CEAs) to ensure you are able to take your exams with reasonable adjustments in place, such as extra writing time and rest breaks. 

Appropriate CEAs will be discussed when you have registered with us, and are dependent on your individual circumstances and the medical evidence you provide.