I also thought ADHD was just a childhood thing

I also thought ADHD was just a childhood thing — until I got to college.

I no longer had my dad watching over me, a tidy house, ready meals, guided study, or a planned day. Suddenly, I was supposed to organise myself, study ahead of time, set priorities, and say no to everything that distracted me. I knew what I had to do, but I couldn’t — I didn’t turn things in, I didn’t show up, often because shame took over. And I knew it wasn’t laziness: I wanted it to work! It was so much easier in high school… now I was seeing the impact it had on my life.

I went through intense days. I never lacked interest — I liked what I was learning — but during exam season, everything fell apart. I tried, but I didn’t know how to cope. I lost track of time, couldn’t sit still for long, and everything became a distraction, even the noise from the street. I decided to seek help; something wasn’t right. I always told my dad that my mind didn’t work like his — but I couldn’t explain why. Until the diagnosis came: ADHD.

It was liberating and, at the same time, a whirlwind — relief, anger… A big mess! And with all the information I received, I realised the problem wasn’t just me: the university still didn’t have adequate methods, not only for me but for all neurodivergent students. Sometimes I still discuss this — even with professors — as if I want to justify all the times I failed. Maybe I’m looking for some understanding… the kind that, for a long time, I didn’t even have for myself.

Finding out I have ADHD in college was a turning point (and some of my friends are still fighting that battle). I can tell you: it helps a lot when, on the other side, someone cares about my struggle and simply asks: “What can I do for you?”

The Student