Packing List for College Students with ADHD and Executive Function Challenges
Updated: Jul 31, 2021
Tile - Bluetooth tracker helps you keep track of keys, wallet and just about anything that is frequently misplaced.
Head Phones - Noise canceling head phones minimize noise distractions while studying or sleeping. Listen to focus music which is designed to work with the binaural beats in the brain.
Alarm - Students that have difficulty getting up in the morning need more than the alarm on the phone. Sonic Alert is a combination sound and vibration alarm. Place the alarm under your pillow and turn off the sound if you have a roommate. Available in a variety of colors.
Lockbox to store medication - Unfortunately, ADHD medication is highly valued and in great demand due to the growing abuse of stimulant drugs on college campuses.
Pill case - Comes in handy if you take several medications daily.
Planner System - Essential for the college student’s busy schedule. Most students prefer the calendar app that’s on the phone or Google Calendar. Paper planners are great too! Just look for one with a 15 or 30 minute grid layout.
Fan or white noise machine - Another way to drown out distracting noise for sleep and study times.
Running shoes/workout clothes - Exercise does wonders for our brain! Some studies show that 30 minutes of cardio is equivalent to four hours on ADHD meds.
Desktop file box - Preferably without a lid and roomy so hanging files are easily accessible.
Balance ball chair - Surprisingly, sitting on a balance ball helps with focus!
Smart pen - LiveScribe records the audio as you take handwritten notes then syncs the notes to the audio for replay later.
Meditation/Mindfulness app - The Calm app is a great place to start for beginners and there’s a mindfulness section just for college students.
Fidgets - Thinking putty, fidget spinners and stress balls can help with focus while studying.
Snacks high in protein and low in sugar - Beef jerky, nuts, peanut butter crackers, protein bars.
Clear storage containers - Keep things in plain view so they’re not forgotten.