ADHD and Learning Difficulties

ADHD and learning difficulties often go hand in hand. Many individuals with ADHD experience challenges in academic settings that go beyond attention issues, as ADHD affects not just focus but also the way the brain processes information. 

ADHD is considered a disability in the UK, and can significantly interfere with learning due to problems with memory, organisation, and sustained mental effort. 

Additionally, individuals with ADHD are more likely to have specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia, which further complicate their educational experience. 

How ADHD Affects Learning
One of the main ways ADHD impacts learning is through difficulties with sustained attention and focus. In the classroom, students with ADHD may find it hard to concentrate on tasks that do not engage them immediately or stimulate their interest. 

This can lead to daydreaming, missing important instructions, or losing track of assignments. Even when they do manage to focus, maintaining that concentration over time can be exhausting, making it hard to complete long or repetitive tasks like reading or studying.

Working memory is another area that can be impaired in ADHD. Working memory allows individuals to hold and manipulate information over short periods, a skill that is crucial for following multi-step instructions or solving complex problems. When working memory is weak, students may struggle to keep up with lessons, retain information for tests, or organise their thoughts during writing assignments. 

ADHD and Co-Occurring Learning Difficulties
While ADHD impacts learning, many individuals with the condition also have specific learning difficulties, such as dyslexia (difficulty with reading) or dyscalculia (difficulty with maths). These co-occurring learning difficulties further challenge their academic performance and may be overlooked if the primary focus is on managing ADHD symptoms. 

For example, a child with both ADHD and dyslexia may be able to concentrate better with ADHD medication, but still struggle with reading comprehension due to the dyslexia. 

It is essential that both conditions are addressed through specialised interventions, such as additional tutoring, assistive technology, or adjusted learning plans. You can learn more about these interventions on our Education Support page.

The Impact of Executive Function Deficits
ADHD affects executive functions, the cognitive processes that allow individuals to plan, organise, and complete tasks. These deficits in executive functioning are often at the root of many learning difficulties experienced by those with ADHD. 

Organising schoolwork, managing time effectively, and breaking large projects into smaller, manageable steps can be incredibly difficult without support. Even highly intelligent students may underperform because they cannot structure their work in a way that allows them to succeed.

In addition, the impulsivity associated with ADHD can interfere with learning. Students might rush through assignments without double-checking their work or blurting out answers without fully considering them. 

This can lead to lower academic performance, even in areas where the student has the knowledge and skills to do well. 

Support and Accommodations for ADHD in Education
To help students with ADHD manage their learning difficulties, schools and educators often implement accommodations that provide extra support. These may include extended time on tests, the use of assistive technology like audio recordings or speech-to-text tools, and seating arrangements that minimise distractions. 

Behavioural strategies, such as setting short-term goals or using visual reminders, can also help students stay organised and on task.

In some cases, Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) plans are developed to ensure that students with ADHD receive the necessary resources and accommodations to succeed in school. These plans are customised to the student’s specific needs, taking into account both the ADHD and any co-occurring learning difficulties.