<p>Hi. Sorry if I'm posting in the wrong forum, but I just had a quick question that I couldn't really find an answer to no matter who I asked. I have been at a community college for about a good year now and I've been doing great. Of course, school is my #1 priority, but classes are getting more difficult as I advance higher in the courses. Even though I managed to maintain a high GPA throughout the previous year with my reading habit/skills, I don't think I can pull it off this semester.<br>
Heres the problem: When I'm reading, I have to read the paragraphs over and over at least several times because I usually end up spacing off or become distracted by even the smallest thing, and even then I sometimes still don't understand what I'm reading. Yes, I noticed that I lose my concentration quite easily. I can't study at home because I get tempted to go online or watch T.V., so I spend hours at the library every day until I get all my homework done. School just started about 2 weeks ago and I feel that I'm falling behind with the work because the classes are getting tougher, and the reading assignments are becoming longer and longer.<br>
Another problem I have is focusing and understanding in class. When I'm in class, I have a tendency to stare out the window or space out. I know everybody does this, but I do almost every class. I don't space out because I want to and I'm not lazy (or else I wouldn't be worried enough to post on this forum about my problem), but no matter how hard I try to focus and not space out, I end up doing it in the end. I'm pretty sure I don't have A.D.D...or at least I hope not.<br>
Does anybody have any solutions or answers to why I'm like this? I have a friend who recommended me to ask a doctor for some drugs that could help me focus better. Does anyone think this is a good idea? Thanks</p>
<p>I'd try giving yourself rewards. You read/study for 5 mins, then get to 'space' for 3. Then bump it up. Read/study for 7, space for three (or go get a soda, etc.), and so on. If you get to the point where you are focusing for about 15 mins at a time you should be good. </p>
<p>When I'd study, I'd give myself a reward when starting (hot cocoa) and have something to look forward to when finishing (a run, a soft pretzel, etc.).</p>
<p>You also might try to google 'tips on improving concentration.' There are tons of things you can try before medication, I think...</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>