Every week Drop-in staff encounter queries about ADHD assessments, supports and medication. This is a difficult question to answer as many elements are outside of the control of the university and the support systems within it. We will try to break down the answers to the main questions.
The NHS website states: ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a condition where the brain works differently to most people. If you have ADHD, you may have trouble with things like concentrating and sitting still. Symptoms usually present before the age of 12.
How do I get assessed for ADHD?
This is a tricky one. We are aware there are challenges facing adults in being referred for an assessment by their GP. However, the first place to get information about this is through contacting your GP. Queens do not have clinical staff to assess any conditions.
Students have shared their difficulties in accessing private assessments. These can also prove expensive and there are considerations that many are unaware of. Firstly, there is more than one type of assessment. An educational assessment is usually cheaper but can only be used in the context of accessing reasonable adjustments in an educational setting or applying for funded support for studies. This will not lead to prescriptions for medication or any clinical support. Alternatively, a diagnosis from a private healthcare provider (such as a Psychiatrist) can lead to prescriptions for medication. It is important to note that the care plan resulting from a private diagnosis may not transfer to your GP’s services. It is uncommon in Northern Ireland for GPs to operate shared care agreements with private providers. Therefore, a private diagnosis regularly means that any medication recommended would need to also be paid for privately on a monthly basis. This may work differently in other areas of the UK or in specific GP practices, so it is important to find out from your GP what the situation is before investing in an assessment if you are hoping for medication.
How do I get support if I can’t get an assessment?
Accessible Learning Support (formerly Disability Services) will consider a ‘working diagnosis’ of the condition. That means that even if an official assessment has not taken place, a student who has been referred for assessment and has been engaging with health services relating to the difficulties associated with ADHD, can still access support. Historically, students have also engaged with ALS for associated mental health difficulties that may have occurred alongside any symptoms of ADHD.
When students attend Drop-in regarding ADHD assessment, they are asked to consider what they believe the benefits of a diagnosis to be. Some students tell us that it is to validate what they have experienced their whole life. Others are unsure but felt that they need to speak to someone about difficulties they have with concentration that are impacting their studies. Some are primarily hoping for reasonable adjustments to help manage studies. It is a personal decision as to whether an assessment is pursued, given the costs involved. Reasonable adjustments can be discussed with the ALS team without official diagnosis.
It is important to consider what difficulties are arising when a student believes they have ADHD. Many students tell us they struggle with with planning, organisation and focus. If these are a problem, students can avail of academic skills support from the Learning Development Service. LDS offer one-to-one appointments for study skills. There is also a plethora of resources to help with planning and organisation. This includes LDS resources as well as AI and Assistive Technology. The university has site licenses for software that is recommended through Disabled Students Allowance. Details of free and low-cost assistive technology can be found on the QUB AT Hub.
Stress can intensify ADHD symptoms and therefore managing it effectively can be beneficial. The NHS website explains that lifestyle also has an impact and recommends exercise, good sleep hygiene and a healthy diet to support mental health and symptoms of ADHD. If you need support with managing stress, reach out. Friends and family can also help with implementing strategies by aiding with planning or just offering reassurance and encouragement. There are many resources listed below.
Assistive Technology | Student Centre | Queen’s University Belfast
ALS for reasonable adjustments-Registration | Student Centre | Queen’s University Belfast (qub.ac.uk)
LDS appointments- One-to-One Appointments | Student Centre | Queen’s University Belfast (qub.ac.uk)
Transition module on Canvas- go.qub.ac.uk/TSHome
Talk Campus is a peer support app which includes a chat room for Neurodiverse students from around the world and wellbeing resources- Students! Sign Up To TalkCampus For Free | TalkCampus
Stress Control NI- HSCNI Stress Control online classes/webinars –Home – Stress Control
Low intensity CBT resource- Bend Don’t Break | ASCERT
Self Help: Support Hub | Student Centre | Queen’s University Belfast (inspiresupporthub.org)