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For individuals with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) and those who support them, it can be challenging to know how to support the needs of a neurodiverse person, especially because the expression of ADHD can vary between individuals.
Here you will find key information about ADHD, Curtin’s support services and where to find additional ADHD information, support and resources.
What is ADHD?
Individuals with ADHD have a life-long neurodevelopmental condition that affects their brain’s reward centre and executive functions at varying levels. However, which part, how and at what level the reward centre and executive functions are affected varies amongst individuals.
Research has grouped the most common presentations of ADHD into three types: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and a combination of inattention, and hyperactivity and impulsivity. With ADHD affecting 1 in 20 Australians, it’s important for those living with ADHD and those who support them to understand the strengths and challenges of their neurodiverse brain.
Some ADHD-related strengths include
Being energetic. For those with hyperactivity, they can learn to channel their extra energy towards enjoyable activities, such as sports, music, study, or work.
Being able to turn their impulsivity into spontaneity. For those with impulsivity control issues, they can be more open to new experiences and break free from the status quo.
Being creative and inventive. Their neurodiverse brain lends them a unique perspective that can lead to creative problem solving.
Having the superpower of being able to become hyper-focused. So, when given a task they are invested in they can work on it until completion without breaking concentration.
However, Individuals with ADHD can struggle with anxiety, mood and emotional regulation, learning difficulties, addiction, and relationship difficulties and thus can benefit from additional support.
Support at Curtin
Usethe support network at Curtin University to learn how to effectively understand and manage your ADHD symptoms and tailor your practices to flourish with your neurodiverse brain. Professional confidentiality is taken seriously at Curtin’s Psychological and Counselling Services, so any information discussed will remain private unless you or others are in danger or if legally obligated to disclose.
Seeing a GP can bean excellent first step to learning about ADHD, your support options, and gaining a referral for a formal ADHD diagnosis. Book an appointment with one of our GPs. Visit ourhealth services website for more information about our services.
Attend one of our group programs and workshops to connect with like-minded people, learn about evidence-based psychological science and support, bust myths and stigma around mental health and neurodiversity, and learn practical skills to self-manage your health and wellbeing.
If you have had a formal ADHD diagnosis by a doctor or qualified heath professional, you can book an appointment with one of our AccessAbility advisors to develop a Curtin Access Plan (CAP).
A Curtin Access Plan is a document that outlines the type and level of support you require at Curtin. Visit our disability & accessibility support website for more information about the service.
While our services cannot provide you with an ADHD diagnosis, we can provide you with psychological and counselling support to help you manage the challenges you experience related to your experience of ADHD.
Working through these issues with a qualified health professional can be an invaluable source of support. Book an appointmentwith one of our psychology trained counsellors.
Many students with ADHD find structuring an essay (or research project) or answering an ambiguous question difficult. Check out Curtin’s UniSkill programs and library workshops for your academic and study needs while at Curtin, both online and on-campus.
Explore the extensive range of clinical services the Curtin clinics has to offer. From speech pathology and exercise programs to physiotherapy and psychology, they offer a range of services for children and adults open to the public.
Visit the clinics webpage for more information about their services.
An excellent way to become more present, connect with people, and look after your overall health and wellbeing is to exercise. Explore the range of sports and recreation programs, social and competitive opportunities, and fitness memberships Curtin sport and recreation has to offer.
Visit the sport and recreation website for more information about what’s on and how to register.
The little conductor at the front of your brain which regulates and controls your thoughts and behaviours. The functions involved include working memory, decision-making, self-monitoring, planning and prioritizing, task initiation, organisation, impulse control, emotional control, and flexible thinking.
