Coping with ADHD in College: Topic Modeling and Sentiment Analysis of Online Peer Discussions on Reddit

Navigating college with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) presents unique academic and personal challenges, often leaving students seeking peer support beyond formal institutional resources. This study applies latent Dirichlet allocation (LDA) topic modeling, sentiment analysis, and emotion classification to analyze 793 posts and 4,911 comments in r/adhd\_college, the largest academic ADHD community on Reddit. Findings reveal six dominant topics: academic performance, physical and emotional well-being, study management strategies, ADHD medication and effects, accommodations and support services, and research participation. While discussions generally exhibit a positive and supportive tone, sentiment variability highlights frustration surrounding academic stress, mental health, medication management, and institutional support. The prominence of positive sentiment and gratitude in comment interactions emphasizes the role of r/adhd\_college as a safe, peer-driven support space offering members practical advice and coping strategies. By unveiling the unfiltered perspectives of ADHD college students, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of their lived experiences and provides insights for designing community-based resources for academic success and overall well-being.