meds and concentration

For years now my ability to concentrate has gotten worse and worse, no matter what state i am in.... so i told my new pdoc this but he just put me on Depakote for BP, but i am under the impression that this will make my concentration WORSE. The problem is i am still trying to finish college, and that is difficult enough without the rapidcycling BP + mild OCD etc. etc. I know it isn't entirely laziness or lack of motivation, i really need help. Do any of you have any advice on medications that will help me concentrate, please??

Not last night
Not this morning
Melon flowers bloomed
--Basho

I am no longer on Depakote, but while I was I too was in college, and surprising I made it through, even with A's in most of my courses, made honors twice, the spring and fall semester the year I graduated. I know though everyone is different and may have different response to the different meds, so I could only share my own experience with you.
I needed to get off of the Depakote after 2 years it was making me too tired, I'm presently on Lamictal, almost for 2 years, it is the best of the others I have been on, and has great anti-depressant qualities besides being a mood stabilizer, it is another anti-convulsant like Depakote, and you do not have to go for monthly bloodwork
Just my 2 cents, I wish you luck

DE

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON

I had trouble concentrating for the last year. For me, it got better about a month ago - I think it was just a symptom of depression that was really persistent. I'm not sure what made it finally ease up either. My T suggested some strategies for reading more efficiently, like using a piece of paper to direct where your eyes are on the page, and stopping to ask yourself questions on what you have read to make sure that you are taking it in. And make sure that you study in a good place without distractions, not on your bed, etc.

Also, my sister (who is a psychiatrist) suggested trying a med called Strattera. I didn't, but you can ask about it.

I have been a full time student for the last year also, and it has sometimes been really hard to do my studying, but I kept at it and made lists for myself of what I had to do for each class, and I have been getting A's.

Good Luck!

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