ADHD
ADHD is best understood as a disorder of executive function and performance consistency, not attention or intelligence. Higher education increases organisational demand right when school-level external supports disappear — and many students never disclose their diagnosis.
Autism
Autistic students are frequently highly capable academically, yet struggle disproportionately with structural, social, and sensory demands rather than academic content. Predictability, explicit communication, and sensory-friendly spaces are core accessibility needs, not optional extras.