October is recognised as ADHD Awareness Month, an initiative dedicated to increasing understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Gemma Regan, Head of Learning Support & Inclusion at City of Portsmouth College, shared insights into ADHD and the college's support systems for affected students.
Regan explained that ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition where the brain functions differently, impacting areas such as attention, activity levels, and impulse control. Individuals with ADHD may experience challenges with concentration, organisation, impulse management, or restlessness. She emphasised that ADHD manifests differently in each person and does not reflect intelligence or capability.
A common misconception about ADHD is that it solely involves an inability to pay attention. Regan clarified that attention difficulties can vary significantly based on the activity and context. Potential effects include difficulty concentrating on uninteresting tasks, being easily distracted by external stimuli or internal thoughts, forgetting appointments or instructions, struggling with organisation and time management, feeling restless, interrupting others, difficulty finishing tasks, and finding everyday activities more effortful than perceived by others.
For students at City of Portsmouth College, ADHD can present challenges in managing timetables, deadlines, and independent study. These difficulties may include concentrating during lessons, managing time effectively, initiating assignments, breaking down large tasks, staying organised, and following complex instructions. Regan stressed that these challenges do not indicate laziness or a lack of care for education.
The college offers various support measures tailored to student needs. These include discussions with the Learning Support team, agreeing on reasonable adjustments with teachers, assistance with planning and organisation through Study Centres, reducing distractions where appropriate, and providing appropriate exam access arrangements. Regular check-ins and support for teachers in understanding effective strategies are also part of the college's approach. The provision of fidget toys is also considered where appropriate.
Regan also offered advice for friends supporting individuals with ADHD, advocating for patience, clear communication of instructions (confirming times and places), and offering study support without taking over. She highlighted the importance of recognising strengths alongside difficulties and treating individuals as friends rather than defining them by their diagnosis.
Common myths about ADHD were addressed, including the idea that it solely means hyperactivity (inattentive symptoms are also common), that individuals need to 'try harder' (effort does not always overcome the condition), that people 'grow out of it' (it can persist into adulthood), and that academic success is impossible (intelligence and potential are not determined by ADHD).
Students who believe they may require additional support are encouraged to speak with the college teams at the upcoming Open Event on October 14 and 15.
