concentration......

um yeah well I am really behind in my school work because I am having a hard time concentrating and staying focused.... i start doing an assignment and then my brain is off somewhere else and I can't get it to come back to where I need to it be.

Anyone know any tricks to get my brain to stayin one spot so I can get through my school work?

Hi Melisana!

I'm sure glad you posted this! I'm a retired college teacher and would be happy to give you any ideas I can come up with...if I can remember them....lol I also have a grandson who's in first year college and he has Aspergers...that's a difficult one for being organized and remembering also.

Can you share what level of school you are in? If high school there should be classes or after hours times where you can get great help. You will find topics there like how to keep organized and not forget things, now to study for tests, test anxiety, you get the idea. Just ask your counselor and they should be able to help. Also, if you are not in college yet you can get what is normally referred to as an EIP. It basically puts in writing any problems you may have that get in the way of you learning and achieving to your best potential. A lot of kids hate getting the 'label' but that's not what it's for. It makes available programs and resources that will help you do your best. My grandson was afforded things like a tutor if he wanted one, a laptop, extra study time and access to resources other students don't have. It's something you may want to consider. Even if you are at college and have a diagnosis that shows you have problems in some areas, you can get assistance and often extra time to get work done.

If you are in college they also have free study classes for the same things as above. Get together with study groups if that would help. If what you need is personal ideas for how to keep it together then those might not be your thing. On campus there are lots of types of counselors who can help.

Try looking online for study groups, making sure they are a true help site and not just another chat room. If you would like any more ideas and if other members have more, please speak up! I have a passion for helping young adults make the most of their education and lives.

Chutzie

I had a flare that lasted for very long... I could not concentrate or remember things, i could barely read and make sense of it. I researched meds online, read about it, i had to have a quick fix due to my job. I found adderall very helpful, you just have to be careful, and make sure your heart is healthy. My rheumatologist also suggested provigil and savella. You can find some info online. But so far im doing ok on adderall.

I have a huge, tough time with focus. These are some of my tricks. I chew gum while trying to get stuff done. I also sit on a Swiss ball (fitness ball) instead of a chair while at my desk. For some reason that bit of bouncy bouncy helps me to stay on task. If I have to memorize something rote, then I do better while moving. Flash cards or even reading go better while pedaling a stationary bike. Take small breaks with a timer to remind to get back to it. Don't eat a bunch of simple carbs; you will slip into a carb zombie state. Good luck!!! I hope one or more of these strategies help.