Could I have ADD?

Question

I try to study but can only read for a few minutes before I realize I've stopped. Its not for lack of motivation because I am really excited about what I'm studying. Even when reading my favorite books I find myself skimming them.

What can I do to help my concenration?

Answer 1

go to a doctor. get check up. i do the same thing doesnt mean its ADD i just dont like reading. even if im excited about what im reading i still dont like to do it period. just go to the doc and get a check up.

Answer 2

It's not ADD.  ADDers tend to have "hyperfocus" when something profoundly interests them.

I'm almost done with Grad school, so here are my best studying suggestions:

Read in the bath with a snack.  It feels all relaxed and comfortable - always retained information better that way.

Read with a buddy - aloud.  Do you have a classmate who needs a study partner?  Take turns reading to one another and discussing the material.  Your enthusiasm for the material might be really helpful to a less enthused person.

Try setting an egg timer for a time shorter than you usually last.  When it goes off, reset it, do some silly little ritual (sing Happy Birthday or do a little dance) then go right back to it.  Gradually increase the amount of time on the timer.

Good luck!

Answer 3

You MAY have ADHD-inatentive type.  Get it tested by a doctor or your school.

Of course, on the favorite books thing, I'll skip to the end just to find out what happens, and then I'll skim most of the rest of the book. ;)

Answer 4

I think you study for long periods of time and don't give yourself a break, every 10 minutes you should get up for a stretch, watch some t.v, have a snack then get back to studying. If your still worried I'd go to the doctors just in case.

Answer 5

Try reading for shorter periods of time and taking notes on what you have read or if your books are yours to keep highlight them using different colored highlighters to keep you interested in the subject matter and to keep you from straying off.

Try getting better sleep (8 hours), avoiding sugars and caffeine, eating a good nutritious meal, and keeping active.  There are natural herbs and vitamins that help with concentration or you can go seek a doctor if you prefer to go the drug route.

If you really believe that you have ADD then you need to get it verified.  Schools can work with you on your learning needs by cutting the amount of work that you do, oral tests, avoiding scantron testing, providing you with more time to complete assignments, offering you tutoring, etc.