[RKORyder]

Recently I have noticed that my intellectual abilities in school (I'm in college) have started to decline and so has my comprehension. One of my hobbies is to write stories which I usually do fairly well. This translated to writing very good essays for class as well. However, now when I try to write an essay, it sounds like a 5th grader wrote it. It's embarrassing because I know I can do better but when I try to write, it's difficult. Also when asked a question in class or on a test, I know the answer but I suddenly become confused and am unable to answer. I am much smarter than this but I feel like my intelligence and comprehensive abilities are deteriorating..... What is happening and can I fix it?

[alimak]

writer block? It happens to all the great writers. Take some time off (even just an afternoon) for some selfcare. Go for a walk, take a yoga class, go to the gym just do something to relax and then go back to your essay.

At times even just a change of scenery might help. If you usually write at home then maybe go to a coffee shop or the library?

[RKORyder]

It's not just with writing but with school in general.

[schatten]

If you're under a lot of stress and anxiety, that's almost definitely part of it. I've been so messed up in the past that I literally couldn't speak for two or three days.

I've gone through a similar situation only, in high school not college. My problem upon reflection was stress and anxiety. Too much, too fast, too soon type deal. Hope this helps

[pegasus]

Hello RKORyder, sounds like anxiety to me >>> Anxiety, Panic and Phobia Center - Psych Central Like a performance anxiety, when you are put on the spot you find you can't think straight to come up with the answers. Then you beat yourself up for being stupid and it becomes a vicious circle. Tests in particular do that to me and I become instantly dumb.

Let your teachers know if you have mental health issues so that they can make accommodations for you. Practice relaxation techniques, enquire and see if there is a counselling service and talk to your doctor about any medications that may help.

I'm not seeing much mention of feeling anxious or panicked or stressed in what you wrote. Are you having those feelings? I think I would see a doctor (regular kind) for a checkup if you can do that. Maybe you could take them examples of your writing before you were having a problem and now (preferably graded ones, if you have them.)

I had a problem with low blood sugar episodes when I was in college. It wasn't serious enough for medication, but at least I knew what I was dealing with after I saw a doctor. I had to stick to a strict diet and start an exercise routine. That helped a lot.

Good luck to you.

[avlady]

i agree with everyone here especially jo

[RKORyder]

I know I have anxiety issues but it has never interferred with school before.

[hannabee]

My daughter is convinced that her memory suffered while being on Paxil and long after she stopped. Don't know is this info is relevant to you or not??

[RKORyder]

I don't think so. I'm not on anything.

[RKORyder]

Originally Posted by hannabee

My daughter is convinced that her memory suffered while being on Paxil and long after she stopped. Don't know is this info is relevant to you or not??

I'm not on anything so I don't think so.