Lived Experience Forum

[creative_writer]

Hi

I have an ASD diagnosis, but also have some ADHD symptoms (no diagnosis at this stage), I need to discuss my attention issues with my psych during my next appointment. I struggle a lot with concentration and remaining still for long periods of time, I stim a lot. I know relaxing music, relaxation exercises, prayer and good old matcha help me concentrate and feel calmer. Does anyone else have any other tips on studying? 

[tyme]

Timed breaks helps me, and self-talk in terms of rewarding myself. That is, I tell myself that once I've completed XYZ, then I'll treat myself to XYZ @creative_writer 

Thoughts?

[creative_writer]

@tyme I think that would work. I think structured breaks would be helpful, I kind of drift in and out depending on what my brain is feeling. I think I'm doing better today than I was yesterday. Still not perfect, but it appears I will be going through my matcha quicker now because I am too scattered brain without it 😂 

[tyme]

I found rewards really help me. 

Sometimes it may even be, "As soon as I finish reading this page, I'm going to walk outside." Hence I don't let myself get up until that is done. 

I think i've always done this, even as a child. I remember in maths, I'd challenge myself to complete an X number of questions before I let myself have dinner. I guess it was something that worked for me.

It's good you are reaching out to gather as many strats as you can. Then it's about finding what works for you.

[ArraDreaming]

@creative_writer I would keen to read long…. I don’t Imhavd a lot of tips because I’m not a studier I did an apprenticeship and spent one day a week at TAFE and it was a living hell
BUT there are certain things I need to concentrate and read etc…
I am also looking at doing my therapeutic hort course so I will need to build up some skills for that

[creative_writer]

@tyme I think I’m just in the process of trying to understand what works for me. Rewarding yourself can really go a long way. I also got up sooner today than later, I found that helped. Being in bed for ages just puts the day off.

@ArraDreaming I wish I had tips, but I’m in the process of figuring things out for myself. I think it’s also about recognising what may not help too. Like I know when I keep emotions in, they build up and can affect my ability to concentrate

[Shaz51]

Hugs @creative_writer 

@ArraDreaming , @tyme have some good ideas there 

And my husband has ASD undiagnosed but his MH team are sure he has it 

Will Tag @Jynx here too , may have some tips too 

[creative_writer]

@Shaz51 ASD can be rough, I hope your husband and you are receiving the support you both need 💖🫂. ASD wouldn’t surprise me, it’s common among those with bipolar.

I actually have one of those unofficial ASD diagnosis from multiple psychs. I never really went through the whole testing process, it’s so expensive as an adult. I don’t plan to get NDIS

[SkySeeker22]

Hi @creative_writer 

I know that you have already got some good tips from others on this thread, but I just wanted to drop in to say that there may assistance programs where you are studying that you could access.  I had no idea about this when I returned to study after 12 years, but found that disability support services recognise mental health conditions and have great supports available for use.  It might be worth looking into?  I just needed a letter of support from my GP/psych.

Also, if you are finding that you are needing to get up and move could you use this as a form of study time by listening to audio versions of texts/articles that you are needing to read?  That way when you go to sit down you can use the sitting time to write ideas down or write assignments/reports etc?

Warm regards

SkySeeker22

[creative_writer]

Won’t hurt to look into it @SkySeeker22 I think listening to the audio is a good suggestion. I find it really hard proof reading my work and I am always skipping words when I do, I found the read aloud function helpful for proofreading assignments. I am guilty of missing lots of reading though this semester, more than I want to admit. This semester has been very content heavy