Useful ADHD resources
The following links, tools, and apps may be helpful if you are seeking to understand ADHD better or if you’re seeking tools to support your studies.
Useful content on ADHD
- has a huge library of engaging articles, posts and guidance.
- is a popular YouTube channel run by Jessica McCabe.
- is a must-see TED talk by Tim Urban.
- s featuring ADHD expert Dr Russell Barkley.
- on Tumblr has comics about the ADHD lived experience.
Useful apps and online tools for ADHD
The following apps are all freemium products available on iOS and Android
- helps you wake up, get up and stay up.
- is a browser add-on that lets you create to-do lists, inspirational photos and quotes and add them to your new tab screen.
- is a visual timer that allows you to set different coloured timers with alarms to stay on track.
- uses boards, lists and cards to plan and manage
- use clever tech to work out what you can afford to save and then automatically move money from your bank account to a virtual savings account.
- tracks your spending and gives personalised money-saving suggestions.
- is an online resource rather than an app; it offers customisable soundscapes for productivity, concentration and relaxation.
Study strategies for ADHD
- Break complex tasks into the smallest possible sub-tasks.
- Write your tasks on separate lines on a piece of paper and cut off each item as you complete it. Watch your overall task get shorter.
- Add assignment deadlines to a calendar or wall planner, then work backwards adding mini deadlines.
- Try the free tool to help you plan and manage tasks.
- Use the method of working in short bursts to maximise concentration. You can keep track with a on your computer or phone.
- Try working in 25-minute bursts, it's easier to get started and keep going
- Before taking a break, jot down what you need to do next to help you get back into the flow.
- Involve a partner, friend or family member.
- Write down some rules, habits or activities you want to stick to. (Your study skills mentor and tutor can help with this.)
- Then ask them to prompt and check in with you.
- You could also use a goal-setting platform such as .
- Just working alongside another person (Body Doubling) can motivate you.
- Discussing ideas and assignments with a coursemate can help you get started.
- , run by the Academic Skills Advisors, or sign up for .
- Learn what strategies and environments do and don’t work for you.
- Don't beat yourself up if things go wrong - you can always try again.
- You can learn about how ADHD has helped people thrive in this post about the ‘’.
- Don't rely on willpower; instead,
- Routines are actions you do again and again so they become automatic.
- Create new positive habits and avoid negative ones; watch this
- Try using a app to stay on track.
- to find out how exercise can help your brain, body, attention and mood.
- Find activities you enjoy, it will be easier to make them a habit
- Aim for an hour of moderate exercise a day, you can break that down into several short bursts if that's easier to fit in.
- Having an exercise buddy will help you stay on track.
- Try to eat a balanced diet.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid sugar, processed foods and artificial additives and colourings.
- Fish oils may help, you could try Omega 3 and 6 supplements.
- Eat iron-rich foods such as green veg, pulses, nuts, seeds and red meat.
Having an ADHD screening or getting a diagnosis
If you are interested in being screened for ADHD or getting a diagnosis the links below may be helpful. You can find more information under ‘Medical assessment for ADHD’ on the Specific Learning Differences page.
- ADHD UK has an .
- ADDitude Magazine has many checklists and symptom checkers including this and this .
- ADHD UK has information on and information on the which includes up-to-date information about different online providers and their waiting times.