TeenHealthFX - Answers - Worried I Won't Perform The Way I'm Supposed To In College

Education, Academics and School Issues / Question
Published: October 13, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

Hi, my name is X. I am currently enrolling into college. Throughout high school I have had many problems with myself. I had problems paying attention in class. I could never get organized, and I have problems doing easy work, such as review work or something I already knew. Also I never had my supplies mainly because I always misplaced them. I never did my homework, and never could find an excuse other than I was lazy, but even when I wanted to start doing it I would always forget or would start doing it and never finish. At my job I always seemed to forget a lot of things. I would get in trouble for forgetting to do something the manager asked me to do. While working there, I have locked my keys in my truck 6 times and lost 2 sets of keys. I am worried I will not be able to perform the way I am supposed to in college. I'm afraid I will not make it. Do you know what my problem is? Is there anything I can do to help my problem? If you can, please email me and tell me what might be wrong?

Signed: Worried I Won't Perform The Way I'm Supposed To In College

Dear Worried I Won't Perform The Way I'm Supposed To In College,

TeenHealthFX understands why you are concerned. Unfortunately, we are unable to email individuals. While we cannot make a diagnosis over the internet, from your description of what is going on with you, we think you might benefit from some information on Attention Deficit Disorder. A person with this disorder:

does not pay close attention to details; may make careless mistakes at work, school, or other activities

fails to complete tasks

has difficulty maintaining attention in tasks or play activities

does not listen when spoken to directly

has difficulty organizing tasks

is easily distracted

is unable to follow more than one instruction at a time

You might try reading the answer to Do I Have ADD? for more information.

TeenHealthFX recommends that you see a doctor, who can listen to your symptoms, evaluate you and recommend a course of treatment, if necessary. If you do have ADD, there are treatments available, including (but not limited to) medication. If you do not have a doctor and you live in Northern New Jersey, please call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475. You can also call the ACCESS Center of Atlantic Behavioral Health at 888.247.1400 for an appointment with a counselor. Outside of this area, you can log onto the US Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) website for referrals.

We understand that you are worried about starting college given the trouble you have had in high school and at your job. It's good that you are taking steps to take care of this ahead of time. In addition, when you start school, we recommend you find out what resources are available to help students with their study habits. Good luck.

Signed: TeenHealthFX