Procrastination And College Don't Mix... (May Have ADHD)

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I really didn't know where to post this, because it felt like this could easily fit into two different threads. Mods, feel free to move this topic if necessary.

For awhile now, I've been thinking that I might have ADHD, (most of my family has it, so I wouldn't be surprised if I did, too). Now, I've procrastinated on some stuff in the past, but it's now just occurred to me that this has actually become progressingly worse near the end of this semester.

My parents have shown some concern, too. So we scheduled an appointment to have myself tested, but this was about a week or two, ago.

Now, here's where the problem comes in: I'm not going to be able to be tested until late-November, which is at the same time my second semester is close to being done. So, I wouldn't be able to be put on any meds if it turned out that I did have ADHD, (hope that makes some sense). I know I shouldn't be self-diagnosing myself like this, but this is just all so very, very overwhelming, (and if my anxiety wasn't enough already).

Seriously, just how am I supposed to be focused and alert on my schoolwork, if I can't even prioritize my special interests as less important? I just can't balance these two things! It seems easy to my parents, but not so much for me...

Regardless, even if I do or don't have it, what I can I do to keep myself succeeding? I could really use some advice right now!

I went through extremely similar situation. Eventually was diagnosed with ADHD and depression.

1. My first recommendation is to exercise. Seriously, it is so important to exercise at least a couple of times a week. It can really help your focus.

2. Eliminate as much stress from your life as possible. If you let stupid little things go everyday, eventually it builds up and can have a really negative effect on you. If somebody is doing something that annoys all the time, politely talk to them about it. They likely do not realize. It will you amaze you how big of an affect this can have on your general mood and focus

3. Work somewhere around other people: library, computer lab, etc. I find that if there are people around, I am much less likely to procrastinate. If they distract you put in some headphones, play music just a loud enough to drown out the background noise.

4. I also find it is important to hang out with other people at least once every couple of weeks. Socializing can be tiring, but isolating yourself is not a good thing.

5. I've kept a journal from time to time, it can help. I once saw quote about journaling that said something like, The body must rid itself of waste to function properly, a journal performs the same function for the mind.

6. Look into depression. Loss of motivation is a big part of that. With ADHD I can do work, but it is tough. If I am depressed, nothing gets done.

7. Don't think that medication is a cure all. ADHD meds makes things a little easier, but they are only so useful. They have annoying side effects. I will get hungry, but have no desire to eat, this can be distracting. ADHD meds do help my focus, but they do not change what I am interested in. So there are times when I take them and end up focusing on something not school related.

Depression meds are not perfect either, did not feel like I was really myself. Life felt fake, which was awful. But they can help energy and motivation.

8. Do not put yourself under so much pressure. It just increases anxiety. I am willing to bet your family cares much more about your long term happiness, than what grade you make in a class. And just because they do not understand what you are going through does not mean they don't care. .

Regardless of what you get diagnosed with, learning to manage stress is much more effective than drugs will ever be. Figure out what keeps you happy, relaxed, and focused. If you are happy, life is so much easier.

I have ADHD, Autism and a host of other problems.

I have found that i need to be busy. If I stop and have spare time then i just keep stopped if that makes sense.

I study full time, I work multiple casual jobs, I am a single parent with 2 kids both on the autism spectrum and i date and stuff too when i have the time.

I make sure that i have something planned everyday so i am out of the house at the very least. I also find that i need to study and set goals with my study, like this semester i will get all HD's.