General Informations

ADHD in adults

Studies estimate that approximately 2.5% of all adults are affected by ADHD.

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is NOT a fashionable diagnosis, but rather a multifactorial neurobiological developmental disorder that primarily affects dopamine and norepinephrine levels and is either congenital or develops after birth.

Symptoms & diagnosis

Adults with ADHD usually appear chaotic and rushed or driven to those around them. They often have difficulty concentrating, are frequently late or postpone or complete important tasks at the last minute, react easily irritated or sensitive, and tend to behave impulsively. They often engage in risky activities such as speeding, extreme sports, or frequent relationship changes. People with ADHD are also particularly susceptible to addictions such as alcoholism, compulsive shopping, or gambling.

The STRENGTHS of ADHD include qualities such as creativity, dynamism, flexibility, social-emotional skills, and cognitive abilities.

Do I have ADHD?

If you suspect you may have ADHD, it may be beneficial to take a self-test for ADHD. However, it is important to note that an online self-test can never replace psychological testing and does not constitute a diagnosis.

ADHD is diagnosed by clinical psychologists or specialists in neurology or psychiatry. A list of diagnostic centers can be found at ADAPT, for example.

Treatment & therapy

The treatment of ADHD in adults, as in children, is multimodal: Stimulants such as Ritalin promote concentration and attention to ensure performance in studies or at work. At the same time, accompanying psychotherapy helps to change behavior patterns, cope better with frustration and rejection, and regulate emotions more effectively. Overall, around 75% of all ADHD patients have another mental illness.

There are numerous counseling services available for adults that can help them learn to cope better with ADHD: Coaching and life and social counseling are one way to integrate self-organization strategies and similar techniques into your everyday life. Self-help groups enable you to exchange ideas with other people affected by ADHD. CBD oil can also help with relaxation.

In the following YouTube video, you will find more information about ADHD in adulthood: ADHD – What to do? Treatment for adults 

What are the challenges of studying?

The demands of organization, concentration, and self-management can be particularly challenging.

Adapting to everyday student life

  • Overcrowded lecture halls and seminar rooms can be stressful and distracting.
  • The amount of material to be learned requires good structure and prioritization—something that many people with ADHD find difficult.

Time management and procrastination

  • Difficulties prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively.
  • Frequent postponement of tasks (procrastination) is typical—deadlines are often only noticed shortly before they expire.
  • The high degree of personal responsibility in university studies exacerbates this problem.

Concentration and attention

  • Long lectures and seminars require sustained attention, which can be particularly difficult for people with ADHD.
  • Distractions are everywhere—both in face-to-face classes and when studying on your own.
  • This makes it difficult to absorb, process, and retain learning content in the long term.

Overwhelm and stress

  • Studying involves many simultaneous demands: learning tasks, deadlines, social obligations.
  • Constantly switching between different activities can lead to stress and overwhelm.
  • Many people with ADHD only work effectively under intense pressure – but this can compromise the quality of their results and cause additional stress.

How can the university provide support?

Depending on the situation and requirements, various support measures can be provided, for example:

  • Extended processing time for exams, term papers, or other examination requirements
  • Quiet work rooms or special seating during exams
  • Alternative exam formats, such as oral exams, presentations, or project work
  • Technical aids, e.g., speech recognition software or reading devices
  • Scheduled breaks during longer exams
  • Mentoring: Accompanying students, helping them find their way around, and supporting them in their everyday student life.