Struggling with Focus: A College Student's Mental Health Journey

What should I do?

Hello Doctor,
First of all, thank you for taking the time to see me.
I am currently a junior in college, and I often experience significant academic pressure.
My issue is that I frequently struggle to concentrate.
This problem first appeared when I was in the second year of junior high school and has persisted since then.
My symptoms tend to arise when I feel a bit stressed.
Specifically, I want to study, but I find it difficult to absorb information.
Additionally, I have always had a peculiar issue where I often focus on the "sensation" in my left hand.
I have a habit of touching my thumb and index finger together, and I need to feel "right" in order to concentrate better.
If the sensation feels off, I find it very hard to focus.
However, I’ve noticed that I can concentrate best when I am not aware of the "sensation" in my left hand, and it doesn’t matter if my thumb and index finger are touching or not.

I also pay a lot of attention to the "sensation" in my mouth; if my mouth is dry, I struggle to concentrate as well.
Another strange aspect is that I often cannot focus at one moment, but then I might be able to concentrate intensely the next minute.
The rapid transition surprises me.
When I can’t focus, I feel very anxious and often think that if I didn’t have this condition, I could handle my tasks much more quickly and wouldn’t have to worry about not finishing my studies, among other things.
I deeply understand that many of my problems stem from this "condition." I have tried to find solutions, but I have somewhat given up because these issues occur frequently, and they don’t necessarily require academic pressure to manifest.
They can even happen when I’m at home reading during the summer vacation.

I am truly troubled and distressed by this.
Doctor, could you please help me or provide some advice? If you need more detailed information about my condition or symptoms, feel free to ask me directly in your response, and I will answer you after reading it.
Thank you so much for your help.

An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/13

Dr. Ke Shengying reply Psychiatry

Dear An,
I have read your description, and it seems that your lack of focus has significantly impacted your life, which must be quite distressing.
It appears to be a compulsive behavior that may reflect some external pressures or internal conflicts.
Based solely on your written account, it is difficult to determine the appropriate treatment method.
I recommend that you visit the outpatient clinic for a consultation, as it should be beneficial for your condition.
Wishing you good health and all the best!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Ke Sheng-Ying
Psychiatry Department
Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan

Reply Date: 2005/03/13

More Info

Hello! Thank you for sharing your experiences and concerns regarding your mental health. It sounds like you are dealing with a complex set of challenges, particularly with focus and concentration, which can be quite distressing, especially as a college student facing academic pressures.

From your description, it seems that you have been experiencing difficulties with concentration since middle school, which can be indicative of underlying issues such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or anxiety-related disorders. The fact that you find it hard to focus when under stress, and that you have specific sensory sensitivities (like needing to feel your fingers touch), suggests that your brain may be processing information differently than others. This can lead to frustration, especially when you know you want to focus but find it difficult to do so.

Your mention of being able to concentrate at times but struggling at others is also a common experience for many individuals with attention-related issues. This inconsistency can be particularly frustrating, as it creates a cycle of anxiety about your ability to perform academically. It’s important to recognize that these fluctuations in focus are not a reflection of your intelligence or capability, but rather a symptom of a potential underlying condition.

Here are some strategies that may help you manage your focus and concentration issues:
1. Structured Environment: Create a dedicated study space that is free from distractions. This can help signal to your brain that it’s time to focus. Ensure that this space is organized and has all the materials you need at hand.

2. Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can be overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable parts and set specific goals for each study session. This can help reduce anxiety and make it easier to concentrate.

3. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can help calm your mind and improve focus.

4. Limit Multitasking: Focus on one task at a time. Multitasking can lead to decreased productivity and increased feelings of being overwhelmed.

5. Regular Breaks: Implement the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break. This can help maintain your focus and prevent burnout.

6. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can improve mood and cognitive function. Even short walks can help clear your mind and improve concentration.

7. Seek Professional Help: Since you’ve been struggling with these issues for a long time, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. They can provide a thorough assessment and may suggest therapy or medication if appropriate. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for managing anxiety and improving focus.

8. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Ensure you are getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated. These factors significantly impact cognitive function and overall mental health.

9. Support Systems: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or academic advisors for support. Sometimes, just talking about your struggles can alleviate some of the pressure you feel.

10. Educational Accommodations: If your concentration issues significantly impact your academic performance, consider discussing accommodations with your school. Many institutions have resources for students with learning differences.

Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take steps to improve your mental health. You are not alone in this journey, and many students face similar challenges. With the right strategies and support, you can find ways to manage your focus and succeed in your academic endeavors. Take care, and I wish you the best on your path to improved mental health!

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