I have a severe pacing problem that makes it difficult to get things done in a timely fashion. I’m a video editor and I work from home, and I find myself getting up frequently to pace the second floor of my house. Sometimes I’m getting up every two minutes, other times I can get away with 30 minutes. I feel like pacing helps me refocus and put my swarming thoughts at ease. It’s not linked with any emotion, but the stronger the emotion is, the more I will pace. Also, the more I don’t want to accomplish a task, the more I will pace. When I pace, I’m either analyzing an issue that has been bothering me, thinking about the project I’m working on, or day dreaming. Outside of accomplishing tasks, I have trouble sitting still to watch movies and tv shows. I can control the urge to pace outside my home for the most part, at school I always take the longest way to my classes. It’s almost like I’ve got so much going on in my head I cope by attempting to walk it away. I’ve found that showering (even if I don’t leave my home for work/school), keeping my workspace in order, and drinking tea helps me stay focused a little bit, but it’s not enough.
I don’t know if this is ADHD, OCD, maladaptive daydreaming, or what, but I really want it to stop. If anyone knows, please tell me! I am not in a situation where I can get a diagnosis, medication, or therapy, so if anyone knows any self treatment options, I’m all ears!