Education, Academics and School Issues / Question
Published: April 30, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
It always takes me forever to do my homework, like 3 times more than the average person. I start work at 5:00 work till 6:00, eat dinner start work at 7:00 and then work until 12:00 and get up each morning at 5:00am to do more work! I don't get why the work takes me so long for most other people it only takes them 3 or 4 hours. I don't understand a lot of the math homework and my grades are getting very bad even though I'm working so much. It takes me soooo long to just read one page of a book too (15 mins per page) I have to keep on going back to make sure I understand every little detail. What do u think is wrong with me? Do u think I could have ADD/Learning Disability/OCD?
Signed: So Much Homework, So Little Time
Dear So Much Homework, So Little Time,
TeenHealthFX understands that school and homework are not always easy. There is more pressure today to do well and know everything. It takes a lot of time and effort to do well and often it is frustrating when we do not. You are probably not alone in your endless nights of homework.
Each person has different study habits and learns at a different pace. Just because it may take you longer to understand or do something it does not mean there is something "wrong" with you. You sound as though you are trying to absorb all the information you can in a small time frame. You need to give yourself a break. Working for 3-4 hours straight through can actually hinder your learning process. After a while the information just becomes words on the page and the concepts are lost. Try taking short study breaks and creating a reading or homework schedule for the week. If you can break down the assignments into smaller assignments you can more easily tackle them. Remember that you need to balance school work and relaxation time. A deficit in one can make you unhappy and less productive.
If you are truly having trouble with the material you should see your teachers. You can set up a time before or after school to clarify and go over the material. Your teachers are there to help; all you need to do is ask. If you express your difficulty they may be able to work with you and turn things around.
Only a professional can diagnose you with ADD/Learning Disability/OCD. TeenHealthFX urges you to see your doctor if you suspect that you may have ADD, a Learning Disability or OCD. Your doctor can perform specific tests and refer you to a specialist if needed. If you do not have your own doctor and live in northern New Jersey you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973.971.6475 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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