Psycho-Babble Medication Thread 34476

Shown: posts 1 to 25 of 65. This is the beginning of the thread.

 

Question to writers

Posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 0:47:42

Any full-time freelance writers out there?

Just to preface: I've been dealing with depression/anxiety for 8 years. My symptoms range from fatigue to intense worry. Sometimes (like now, for example) words simply don't come. Other times I feel great - at the top of my game. Still other times, I feel so agitated that my thoughts race, my muscles tighten and I grind my teeth incessantly. Of course, the kicker is that I have yet to be able to predict when these various feelings will occur, and why they occur in the first place.

My question: how do you stay on task when symptoms flare? I work from home full time. I'm not obligated to work 9-5 as long as I meet the weekly deadline. But as you know, this sort of freedom can be trouble for anyone, especially those of us who have various flavors of depression/anxiety, etc.

Any suggestions that might help me stay on track?

I have one more question that is miles off the subject. Has anyone read any substantial literature on the long-term effects of febrile convulsions in infants? Just wondering.

Thanks

 

Re: Question to writers

Posted by Mark H. on May 24, 2000, at 3:13:06

In reply to Question to writers, posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 0:47:42

Map your cycles. Keep a diet diary -- write down 100% of everything you eat, when, how you feel. Note your exposures to pollens, detergents, diesel fumes, whatever. Arguments with the SO. Stuffed anger over topics you can't change.

Write ahead when you're well. Fall back to the rules: show, don't tell. Outline half a dozen pieces on a good day; lay in the working body; play with the color and texture while you still feel the associations.

Crib your unfinished work. Look for a good vein and mine it.

Blow it all off and take a walk. Always carry a notebook. Look for something to read that is so good it makes you want to give up writing forever. Get mad: pick up the Readers Digest and see what others are getting paid to put out. Get laid.

My depression comes. I'm dull but accurate. I borrow spark then. (I edit -- destroyed what little writing ability I ever had -- never edit.) Get a second p-t job as a bookkeeper. See if you can do bank recons when you think you can't write. It might pay the rent.

Read every post boBB writes, even the ones (perhaps especially the ones) when you know you are listening to the exposed nerve in his jaw. Then read his rhapsodic entries, his gentle love for an overwrought mother, his friendship and concern for those in the line of fire, his fury with the arrogant. Notice that he breaks the rules of writing with the authority of confidence in his own voice.

Don't take the advice of an editor. ;-)

Mark H.

 

OT:Re: Question to writers

Posted by Theresa Pye on May 24, 2000, at 9:00:13

In reply to Question to writers, posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 0:47:42

How do you get such a job? Do you have a degree in English or other? I've often thought this would be an ideal job for me.
Theresa Pye
> Any full-time freelance writers out there?
>
> Just to preface: I've been dealing with depression/anxiety for 8 years. My symptoms range from fatigue to intense worry. Sometimes (like now, for example) words simply don't come. Other times I feel great - at the top of my game. Still other times, I feel so agitated that my thoughts race, my muscles tighten and I grind my teeth incessantly. Of course, the kicker is that I have yet to be able to predict when these various feelings will occur, and why they occur in the first place.
>
> My question: how do you stay on task when symptoms flare? I work from home full time. I'm not obligated to work 9-5 as long as I meet the weekly deadline. But as you know, this sort of freedom can be trouble for anyone, especially those of us who have various flavors of depression/anxiety, etc.
>
> Any suggestions that might help me stay on track?
>
> I have one more question that is miles off the subject. Has anyone read any substantial literature on the long-term effects of febrile convulsions in infants? Just wondering.
>
> Thanks

 

Re: Question to writers

Posted by Brenda on May 24, 2000, at 12:02:00

In reply to Question to writers, posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 0:47:42

>

Brian, I'm not a writer, but I have my own at home business with deadlines as well. I also suffer from depression and GAD. Yes, there are times when it can be really hard to work when I feel bad. When I feel bad I try to get the minimum work done needed for the day as best I can. Sometimes that means I'll work for 1/2 hour, stop, do something else. Usually, if I can do something else that gets me moving (gardening, whatever) I find I then have a little more motivation to get some work done. That's really all that works for me. If I go back to bed - I'm shot for the day, then suffer remorse and guilt. Physically moving really helps me.
Good luck - Brenda
Any full-time freelance writers out there?
>
> Just to preface: I've been dealing with depression/anxiety for 8 years. My symptoms range from fatigue to intense worry. Sometimes (like now, for example) words simply don't come. Other times I feel great - at the top of my game. Still other times, I feel so agitated that my thoughts race, my muscles tighten and I grind my teeth incessantly. Of course, the kicker is that I have yet to be able to predict when these various feelings will occur, and why they occur in the first place.
>
> My question: how do you stay on task when symptoms flare? I work from home full time. I'm not obligated to work 9-5 as long as I meet the weekly deadline. But as you know, this sort of freedom can be trouble for anyone, especially those of us who have various flavors of depression/anxiety, etc.
>
> Any suggestions that might help me stay on track?
>
> I have one more question that is miles off the subject. Has anyone read any substantial literature on the long-term effects of febrile convulsions in infants? Just wondering.
>
> Thanks

 

Re: Question to writers

Posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 13:26:01

In reply to Re: Question to writers, posted by Brenda on May 24, 2000, at 12:02:00

Brenda,

Yes, I've noticed that when I tell myself that I'll "just grab a little nap" nothing further gets done. Of course, jumping from desk to chair (my office is in my room) remains ever the temptation.

Thanks for your comments. I understand that this isn't simply a writer's problem. For me, procrastination leads to frustration, then to anxiety and depression. On the other hand, just getting work done lifts my spirits. The key is also the lock -- how does one overcome procrastination, especially in the face of day to day swings in mood and motivation?

Thanks also to Mark. You've got some solid ideas.

Theresa,

Yes, I have an English degree. I've been writing part or full time for about 5 years now. I started out writing fiction for a zine, did some non-fiction writing on the Web, then moved to NY and pretty much went for any writing job I could find. I did some direct mail advertising, Web site content and then 7 months as a reporter/editor at a financial publication. Now I'm working as a contractor, writing online content for a computer company. My progress as a writer is probably typical in its atypicality amongst writers. What I mean to say is that many of us don't follow a linear path. Have you ever been published? Do you have enough material to put together a convincing portfolio? There are a lot of Internet startups that are desperate for content producers. Scour sites like monster.com and hotjobs.com for opportunities. Also, check out major newpapers, like the NY Times. The Internet is a great tool for off-site workers. For example, I live in Brooklyn, my editor-in-chief lives upstate, and our proof readerlives in Texas. You don't necessarily have to go to an office anymore. Hope this helps.

B
>
> Brian, I'm not a writer, but I have my own at home business with deadlines as well. I also suffer from depression and GAD. Yes, there are times when it can be really hard to work when I feel bad. When I feel bad I try to get the minimum work done needed for the day as best I can. Sometimes that means I'll work for 1/2 hour, stop, do something else. Usually, if I can do something else that gets me moving (gardening, whatever) I find I then have a little more motivation to get some work done. That's really all that works for me. If I go back to bed - I'm shot for the day, then suffer remorse and guilt. Physically moving really helps me.
> Good luck - Brenda
> Any full-time freelance writers out there?
> >
> > Just to preface: I've been dealing with depression/anxiety for 8 years. My symptoms range from fatigue to intense worry. Sometimes (like now, for example) words simply don't come. Other times I feel great - at the top of my game. Still other times, I feel so agitated that my thoughts race, my muscles tighten and I grind my teeth incessantly. Of course, the kicker is that I have yet to be able to predict when these various feelings will occur, and why they occur in the first place.
> >
> > My question: how do you stay on task when symptoms flare? I work from home full time. I'm not obligated to work 9-5 as long as I meet the weekly deadline. But as you know, this sort of freedom can be trouble for anyone, especially those of us who have various flavors of depression/anxiety, etc.
> >
> > Any suggestions that might help me stay on track?
> >
> > I have one more question that is miles off the subject. Has anyone read any substantial literature on the long-term effects of febrile convulsions in infants? Just wondering.
> >
> > Thanks

 

Re: Question to writers

Posted by Julie on May 24, 2000, at 17:33:34

In reply to Question to writers, posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 0:47:42

I'm writing a PhD dissertation (a literature/history thing) so I'm home a lot of the time trying to crank out the words. I take Effexor, and it's kept me from going down to the depths... but this solo writing, no external structure does seem to send my moods on somewhat of a roller coaster. Even my diss-writing friends without a history of depression and anxiety (the few there are in grad school!) get anxious and have trouble staying "on task." "Good" things I've done when I feel cranky/aphasic/anxious: go to the gym and work out really hard; do other "work" stuff that's not writing. Not so good things: drink wine; call people and procrastinate; surf the Net; freak out...etc. So... I guess I have no good advice, but I sure know where you're coming from.
>
>

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease

Posted by Mark H. on May 25, 2000, at 11:26:02

In reply to Re: Question to writers, posted by brian on May 24, 2000, at 13:26:01

Brian,

I'm very interested in procrastination as a disease or defense mechanism or even just as an amazing personal phenomenon. What am I doing on Psycho-Babble at the moment when I know I have a desk full of work to get to and I leave for vacation in two days? I would rather vacuum the house or wash dishes than get to my tasks. I would rather clean toilets that just sit down and do the work. Yet, like you, I know that getting even a couple of things done today would make me feel infinitely better. What is this all about?

Any procrastination experts out there? No humor, please -- I've read it all.

Thanks,

Mark

 

Later....

Posted by boBB on May 25, 2000, at 17:49:17

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease, posted by Mark H. on May 25, 2000, at 11:26:02

Well, I have a lot to say about this, but I can't seem to get my thoughts together. I'll tell you about it, later....

When is the deadline for replies?

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease

Posted by Noa on May 25, 2000, at 18:15:08

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease, posted by Mark H. on May 25, 2000, at 11:26:02

Well, one way procrastination serves as a defense---and does a mighty good job of it, I think---is that it protects the person from the personal risk involved in putting forth effort at a task, especially something as ego-involved as writing. By putting it off, the person creates a situation in which he or she can save face if the outcome of the effort is less than stellar in his own or someone else's eyes. I know this because I have done this a lot.

Another thing is that many people have difficulty with "executive functioning", a term I am using loosely here. I am referring to the ability to manage the self in service of completing a goal. It takes a lot of strength to do this, sometimes. It means narrowing the focus of your conscious brain, putting aside all other "business" in there, making a game plan as to what your goal is, how you want to meet the goal, breaking that into steps, focusing on manageable pieces of it one at a time, transitioning from one task to another, organizing your thoughts, etc etc. When this is difficult for a person, that can generate a lot of anxiety. The anxiety can be overwhelming at times, and the "best" defense against overwhelming anxiety is to AVOID the source of the anxiety or anything closely associated with it. Complex tasks require lots of executive functioning skills....this creates anxiety.....complex tasks are avoided.

I think executive functioning can be difficult for some folks because of neurological vulnerabilities that have been there since birth, but they can also develop this difficulty from living with psychiatric disorders......or both, of course.

I am sure there are lots of other ways to understand procrastination....these are just a couple of ideas.

BTW, there was a discussion above of CBT---cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT is a good form of treatment for problems with procrastination.

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease

Posted by JohnL on May 26, 2000, at 3:51:03

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease, posted by Mark H. on May 25, 2000, at 11:26:02

Mark,

It's just my opinion, but in my experience I think procrastination is a subgroup of anhedonia. That is, the lack of pleasure, or the lack of looking forward to doing whatever. When I was at my worst, I was drowning in procrastination. But it really was anhedonia more accurately. I spent a lot of time here, because there was absolutely nothing I was interested in doing. At least here I could occupy myself, learn new things, get support, and unwind. This place has been very therapeutic for me, in the sense that it helped me survive the roughest times.

so, I'm no expert on procrastination, but certainly a veteran of experiencing it for a long time. When I finally found the medication that treated my anhedonia, I became interested in everyday normal activities--including work. So, when I cured the anhedonia, it also cured the procrastination. I think they are almost the same thing. And yes, I would classify it as a disease. It's kind of like taking one prominent symptom of depression (anhedonia/procrastination), and then making a full-blown psychiatric condition out of that symptom cluster. Almost as if it is a stand-alone condition related to, yet separate from, depression.
JohnL

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?

Posted by CarolAnn on May 26, 2000, at 8:43:43

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease, posted by Mark H. on May 25, 2000, at 11:26:02

I was ruminating over my procrastination problems, wherein my typical excuse is, "I'm just too tired, I can't even think about doing that(whatever) right now." And I got to thinking about how when I was a teenager, my mother was always on my case about being "lazy". I know now, I was not lazy, I was depressed and suffering the fatigue of depression. I also know now(recent studies show), that teenagers really do need much more sleep(10 to 11 hrs/night) than adults, so I had legitimate reason to be tired(my mother *never* let me sleep long enough).
The point here is that I think my being too "tired" to get stuff done(procrastination), could be partly a form of rebellion against my mother and her relentless tirades on my so-called laziness. It's like, now that I am not under her thumb, I kind of have an attitude(exagerated by the ramifications of depression), that "it's my house, my life, I have control, and I don't have to do anything I don't want to do!". All that rolled up into one simple phrase, "God, I'm just sooo tired!". Hence, procrastination. Thoughts, anyone?? CarolAnn

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?

Posted by Noa on May 26, 2000, at 10:31:52

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?, posted by CarolAnn on May 26, 2000, at 8:43:43

Makes sense to me, CA!

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?

Posted by ChrisK on May 27, 2000, at 6:43:17

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?, posted by CarolAnn on May 26, 2000, at 8:43:43

CarolAnn,

Have you ever thought about adding some type of stimulant to your current meds. I'm doing a little better with Adderall besides my AD. You may want to discuss Adderall, Ritilan or Provigil or something similar with your doctor. I take mine in the morning and then again at noon. I wouldn't say it motivates me to do things I don't want to but it does keep me going through the day.

Chris

 

Re: to ChrisK

Posted by CarolAnn on May 27, 2000, at 8:06:46

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?, posted by ChrisK on May 27, 2000, at 6:43:17

Hey Chris, actually I do take Adderall, 10mgs. three times per day. It was really helpful in the beginning, but the effect seems to have tapered off. I still get some 'get up and go' from it, but not much in the way of "task" motivation. I am going to join a gym today, and I know, from past experience, that regular exercise will increase my energy and help my AD's regulate my moods(speaking of procrastination, I haven't exercised since I got pregnant three yrs ago!). Thank you so much for responding, it's so nice to have people who understand these things well enough to care! CarolAnn

 

Re: Procrastination

Posted by Noa on May 27, 2000, at 11:54:17

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?, posted by CarolAnn on May 26, 2000, at 8:43:43

The writers among you might enjoy this article, which I stumbled upon at Salon.com, when looking for the psych-related articles that Abby recommended:

http://www.salon.com/books/feature/2000/05/26/self_help/index.html

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?

Posted by Sara T on May 27, 2000, at 23:25:47

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?, posted by CarolAnn on May 26, 2000, at 8:43:43


Hi Carol Ann -

I must admit that I too suffer from massive amounts of procrastination and simply finding myself too overwhelmed by the thought of some tasks. An ADD characteristic I believe.

I take ritalin and find that it does help keep me going but I have to make a concerted effort to sticking to my "To Do" list. Distractions of children don't help either.

I think the exercise option is a great idea. I know it helps me. Also, breaking large tasks down into smaller parts might help. And also, with small children around, be realistic and don't expect to get as much accomplished as you might without them.

I think staying at home with the kids is one of the hardest things to do. There aren't the external cues to keep you on track like working in an outside environment would have. If your children are very young then there's not much intellectual stimulation on an adult level, and that can surely turn your brain to mush. If your little one isn't a good sleeper, you could be sleep deprived, even if its just an hour or so a night.

I don't know if any of this is useful to you but I'm citing all the things I know contribute to my owon depression and state of chaos. I have been working with my own therapist , however, since I discovered my own ADD to try and break down some of the old maladaptive habits (eg, procrastinating) and I have discovered some good rules of thumb to keep things going along. But it takes some self pushing and the ritalin does help with that, but it isn't everything.

Maybe an increase in the adderall would add some umph to your day. Have you discussed it with your doc?

Sara T

 

Procrastination/Desperation

Posted by forth Meg on May 28, 2000, at 17:02:14

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease, posted by Mark H. on May 25, 2000, at 11:26:02

Procrastination's a joke to most people, but not to me. My procrastination is TOTALLY out of control. All my life I've gotten myself in *lots* of trouble because of it, and I can't seem to get a handle on it no matter how much I focus on it.

I've come to the conclusion that it's something like an addiction - even though there's no "high" or anything - I feel it's a compulsive, destructive behavior I don't know how to stop.

I've been working on it in therapy, and there are probably a LOT of reasons why I procrastinate - habit, anxiety and avoidance, anger, a touch of anhedonia and hopelessness, identity issues, perfectionism, laziness, passivity, "locus of control" problems...but knowing these things doesn't get me to change my behavior.

I've tried some techniques, making lists, tracking my time, etc., and they work for a little while sometimes, but I always return to the same patterns eventually.

It's not ADD/ADHD I know, because usually I can concentrate very well - if it's something other than the "task at hand" that is. I have no other symptoms of ADD really either - probably fewer than the average person. I've had a lot of depression, and that always makes the situation MUCH worse - but even when I'm "well" I procrastinate.

Some medications that have helped with depression have helped with procrastination - a LITTLE - that is, when my energy returns I start doing *more* - sometimes working incredibly hard - but usually it's unfocused, irrelevant work that wastes a lot of time on unimportant details. In fact the one time I was fired, ironically, was during one of these high-energy periods, where I felt I was working incredibly hard, but kept missing deadlines because I was zooming off in so many directions.

At this point I don't know where to turn next. I feel completely hopeless about myself/my life. I know that doesn't help the situation, but it's how I feel.


> Brian,
>
> I'm very interested in procrastination as a disease or defense mechanism or even just as an amazing personal phenomenon. What am I doing on Psycho-Babble at the moment when I know I have a desk full of work to get to and I leave for vacation in two days? I would rather vacuum the house or wash dishes than get to my tasks. I would rather clean toilets that just sit down and do the work. Yet, like you, I know that getting even a couple of things done today would make me feel infinitely better. What is this all about?
>
> Any procrastination experts out there? No humor, please -- I've read it all.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Mark

 

Re: Procrastination/Desperation

Posted by Sara T on May 28, 2000, at 19:06:47

In reply to Procrastination/Desperation, posted by forth Meg on May 28, 2000, at 17:02:14

> Procrastination's a joke to most people, but
Some medications that have helped with depression have helped with procrastination - a LITTLE - that is, when my energy returns I start doing *more* - sometimes working incredibly hard - but usually it's unfocused, irrelevant work that wastes a lot of time on unimportant details. In fact the one time I was fired, ironically, was during one of these high-energy periods, where I felt I was working incredibly hard, but kept missing deadlines because I was zooming off in so many directions.

The unfocused energy, missed dealines, zooming off in too many directions at once, all sound ADD to me. Another myth about ADD is that people with ADD can't concentrate on anything, when in fact, they hyperconcentrate on things that are of high interest.

I do not presume to tell you that you have ADD, so don't get me wrong. But many of the things you say remind me of my own foiables and I know that I am ADD, although I didn't realize it until this past year. I have also suffered from depression, which is commonly comorbid with ADD, for longer than I care to think about.

Sara T.

 

Re: Procrastination/Desperation

Posted by forth meg on May 28, 2000, at 21:06:20

In reply to Re: Procrastination/Desperation, posted by Sara T on May 28, 2000, at 19:06:47

> > Procrastination's a joke to most people, but
> Some medications that have helped with depression have helped with procrastination - a LITTLE - that is, when my energy returns I start doing *more* - sometimes working incredibly hard - but usually it's unfocused, irrelevant work that wastes a lot of time on unimportant details. In fact the one time I was fired, ironically, was during one of these high-energy periods, where I felt I was working incredibly hard, but kept missing deadlines because I was zooming off in so many directions.
>
> The unfocused energy, missed dealines, zooming off in too many directions at once, all sound ADD to me. Another myth about ADD is that people with ADD can't concentrate on anything, when in fact, they hyperconcentrate on things that are of high interest.
>
> I do not presume to tell you that you have ADD, so don't get me wrong. But many of the things you say remind me of my own foiables and I know that I am ADD, although I didn't realize it until this past year. I have also suffered from depression, which is commonly comorbid with ADD, for longer than I care to think about.
>
> Sara T.

Yeah, I know that does sound like ADD. But those are only occasional periods I've had on medications. For the most part my problem is just pure inertia.
I have looked at the symptoms of ADD - and I just don't have them.
But I do appreciate your input on this.

 

Re: Procrastination Syndrome?

Posted by medlib on May 29, 2000, at 13:05:22

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease - or rebellion?, posted by CarolAnn on May 26, 2000, at 8:43:43

Mark et al--

Procrastination is my defining personal characteristic; a lifetime of practice has honed it into the very essence of my dysfunction. Typically, I have even procrastinated on posting about procrastination!

I have recognized truth in every post on this thread; it's fascinating that we each approach procrastination differently. Maybe it should be viewed as a syndrome--one set of behaviors, with similar results, which can be triggered by many different causes.

For me, it is very, very difficult to begin what I cannot finish.

As a child, I learned very early that my parents viewed their role as "helping" me to improve upon whatever I did. My mother used to relate with a kind of baffled pride that, as a toddler, I was too "stubborn" to talk; she knew I could, because she often overheard me practicing speaking in my room. She never saw the sadness in that. Whatever I accomplished or became *always* led to expectations of more, or better. When I was successful in skipping the first grade, it was not accepted as "enough." They immediately began looking for evidence that I "needed" to skip another grade--so I skipped the fourth grade as well. Academically, it was just as successful; socially, it was a complete disaster.

Naturally, it occurred to me that projects which were never completed successfully could not serve as launching pads for more projects. Similarly, there could be no pressure to finish what had not yet been started. Eventually, I learned to protect myself with procrastination; the potential failure embedded in every success could be avoided by simply postponing success.

I need not ever be truly impoverished if I avoid paying the bills. I need not risk failure in a professional job if I never quite graduate. (Once, I completed a degree program and never filed for the diploma.)

To me, "potential" is a four-letter word; it robs my present of its rewards. Ultimately, if "I am" is not sufficient, "I will be" can have no reality. I buried my mother eighteen months ago; I allowed her to bury me much earlier.

Medlib--in mourning for both of us.

 

Re: Procrastination Syndrome?

Posted by brian on May 29, 2000, at 14:02:01

In reply to Re: Procrastination Syndrome?, posted by medlib on May 29, 2000, at 13:05:22

> Mark et al--
>
> Procrastination is my defining personal characteristic; a lifetime of practice has honed it into the very essence of my dysfunction. Typically, I have even procrastinated on posting about procrastination!
>
> I have recognized truth in every post on this thread; it's fascinating that we each approach procrastination differently. Maybe it should be viewed as a syndrome--one set of behaviors, with similar results, which can be triggered by many different causes.
>
> For me, it is very, very difficult to begin what I cannot finish.
>
> As a child, I learned very early that my parents viewed their role as "helping" me to improve upon whatever I did. My mother used to relate with a kind of baffled pride that, as a toddler, I was too "stubborn" to talk; she knew I could, because she often overheard me practicing speaking in my room. She never saw the sadness in that. Whatever I accomplished or became *always* led to expectations of more, or better. When I was successful in skipping the first grade, it was not accepted as "enough." They immediately began looking for evidence that I "needed" to skip another grade--so I skipped the fourth grade as well. Academically, it was just as successful; socially, it was a complete disaster.
>
> Naturally, it occurred to me that projects which were never completed successfully could not serve as launching pads for more projects. Similarly, there could be no pressure to finish what had not yet been started. Eventually, I learned to protect myself with procrastination; the potential failure embedded in every success could be avoided by simply postponing success.
>
> I need not ever be truly impoverished if I avoid paying the bills. I need not risk failure in a professional job if I never quite graduate. (Once, I completed a degree program and never filed for the diploma.)
>
> To me, "potential" is a four-letter word; it robs my present of its rewards. Ultimately, if "I am" is not sufficient, "I will be" can have no reality. I buried my mother eighteen months ago; I allowed her to bury me much earlier.
>
> Medlib--in mourning for both of us.


Here's something I've noticed. Having insight into why I procrastinate doesn't stop me from continuing to do so. I can sit in my room, thinking, "I've gotta clean up a little." But I put it off, sometimes until it is too unbearable to stand the mess. The same is true with work. I procrastinate, often creatively. I become interested in other things, or obsess over psychological symptoms, get suddenly sleepy -- whatever. The point is this: procrastination isn't the same as being unaware. I am very aware when I'm procrastinating.

But there's some breakdown in the planning/execution process. Where does this happen? What part of me, for example, consciously notices the collecting mess on my desk, then "decides" not to pick it up before it accumulates into a disaster? Why do I become sleepy in the middle of large projects? Why can the smallest, simplest parts of large projects seem so daunting?

I can find answers to these questions, and I can even change my reactions, temporarily. But there's a larger pattern at play. How do I apply procrastination-breaking techniques such as making lists, etc, when the very act of doing so seems impossible to do consistently?

It's very frustrating. Any suggestions?


 

Re: Procrastination Syndrome?

Posted by Sara T on May 29, 2000, at 16:22:40

In reply to Re: Procrastination Syndrome?, posted by brian on May 29, 2000, at 14:02:01

Brian -

Since procrastination is a hallmark of Adult ADD (not that I mean to imply that that is your problem), it might be useful to you to look at some of the techniques in books about ADD that address this very issue. Driven to Distration by Ratey and Hallowell is a great source, and there are others.

One thing I got from that book was the rule, "Never handle something twice". That refers to paperwork. It means that you get a bill, you deal with it then and you don't have to go back to it. Of course, you need a workable system of doing things and that requires that the PHYSICAL space you work in be organized. Most important, too, is to break the dreaded task down into smaller parts and take it a step at a time. There are coaches, yes, people who can help you get started and keep going. Again, look up some of the ADD sites (CHADD, for instance) and you will see them listed. Once you have your "system" in place, you must not let it fall apart (easier said than done). Again, a coach can help.

For me, ritalin has been a godsend because I often can't build up the forward momentum to get started on many things, much to my own detriment.The addition of the stimulant to my AD gets me up and going, but it isn't everything.

Changing a lifetime of maladapive habits is HARD work. You have to be motivated to do it. In the end, the answer to procrastination is in our own hands.

Sara T.

 

Re: Procrastination Syndrome?

Posted by brian on May 29, 2000, at 17:48:09

In reply to Re: Procrastination Syndrome?, posted by Sara T on May 29, 2000, at 16:22:40

> Brian -
>
> Since procrastination is a hallmark of Adult ADD (not that I mean to imply that that is your problem), it might be useful to you to look at some of the techniques in books about ADD that address this very issue. Driven to Distration by Ratey and Hallowell is a great source, and there are others.
>
> One thing I got from that book was the rule, "Never handle something twice". That refers to paperwork. It means that you get a bill, you deal with it then and you don't have to go back to it. Of course, you need a workable system of doing things and that requires that the PHYSICAL space you work in be organized. Most important, too, is to break the dreaded task down into smaller parts and take it a step at a time. There are coaches, yes, people who can help you get started and keep going. Again, look up some of the ADD sites (CHADD, for instance) and you will see them listed. Once you have your "system" in place, you must not let it fall apart (easier said than done). Again, a coach can help.
>
> For me, ritalin has been a godsend because I often can't build up the forward momentum to get started on many things, much to my own detriment.The addition of the stimulant to my AD gets me up and going, but it isn't everything.
>
> Changing a lifetime of maladapive habits is HARD work. You have to be motivated to do it. In the end, the answer to procrastination is in our own hands.
>
> Sara T.

Thanks Sara,

It is hard work, no question about it. I have read a few books about ADD, including the one that you suggested. I'm not sure what mix of habits, psychology and chemicals make organization and motivation to attack large projects such a challenge for me.

When I moved to NYC last summer, I tried dexetrine for awhile. Actually, I wasn't prescribed it; I just borrowed from a friend who has a prescription. I took it according to my friend's doctor's orders for him. I must say that it really did provide energy and motivation. It really seemed to clear out the fog. It also caused sleeplessnes if I took it too late.

I am seeing a therapist in addition to taking celexa. I think I'll ask him about ADD comorbidity in anxiety/depression. I'll also see about getting some tips or help from him on working out an organizational system.

The funny thing is -- and I'd be interested to hear if this describes you -- I can put forth a great amount of work for short bursts. I'm like life's sprinter. I'll excersize for 4 months, get in great shape, then just let it go. I can write when I absolutely need to -- I write for a living -- then I just get off track and way behind. In other words, I can follow a schedule for a while, but then I just drop it.

Thanks for your suggestions. I'll definately look into this further.

Brian

 

Re: Procrastination Syndrome?

Posted by Sara T on May 29, 2000, at 19:39:55

In reply to Re: Procrastination Syndrome?, posted by brian on May 29, 2000, at 17:48:09

> > Brian -
> >
> > Since procrastination is a hallmark of Adult ADD (not that I mean to imply that that is your problem), it might be useful to you to look at some of the techniques in books about ADD that address this very issue. Driven to Distration by Ratey and Hallowell is a great source, and there are others.
> >
> > One thing I got from that book was the rule, "Never handle something twice". That refers to paperwork. It means that you get a bill, you deal with it then and you don't have to go back to it. Of course, you need a workable system of doing things and that requires that the PHYSICAL space you work in be organized. Most important, too, is to break the dreaded task down into smaller parts and take it a step at a time. There are coaches, yes, people who can help you get started and keep going. Again, look up some of the ADD sites (CHADD, for instance) and you will see them listed. Once you have your "system" in place, you must not let it fall apart (easier said than done). Again, a coach can help.
> >
> > For me, ritalin has been a godsend because I often can't build up the forward momentum to get started on many things, much to my own detriment.The addition of the stimulant to my AD gets me up and going, but it isn't everything.
> >
> > Changing a lifetime of maladapive habits is HARD work. You have to be motivated to do it. In the end, the answer to procrastination is in our own hands.
> >
> > Sara T.
>
> Thanks Sara,
>
> It is hard work, no question about it. I have read a few books about ADD, including the one that you suggested. I'm not sure what mix of habits, psychology and chemicals make organization and motivation to attack large projects such a challenge for me.
>
> When I moved to NYC last summer, I tried dexetrine for awhile. Actually, I wasn't prescribed it; I just borrowed from a friend who has a prescription. I took it according to my friend's doctor's orders for him. I must say that it really did provide energy and motivation. It really seemed to clear out the fog. It also caused sleeplessnes if I took it too late.
>
> I am seeing a therapist in addition to taking celexa. I think I'll ask him about ADD comorbidity in anxiety/depression. I'll also see about getting some tips or help from him on working out an organizational system.
>
> The funny thing is -- and I'd be interested to hear if this describes you -- I can put forth a great amount of work for short bursts. I'm like life's sprinter. I'll excersize for 4 months, get in great shape, then just let it go. I can write when I absolutely need to -- I write for a living -- then I just get off track and way behind. In other words, I can follow a schedule for a while, but then I just drop it.
>
> Thanks for your suggestions. I'll definately look into this further.
>
> Brian

Brian-
In short, YES. In fact that's the type of thing I do that's gotten me to the low place I'm in today. For example, I did a bang up job on my architecture thesis, but I failed to follow through with liscensure. I'm the soul of innconsistency, which is also one of those ADD traits. Its one of the things my husband complains most bitterly about, that I don't finish or follow through on important things. And, yes, I get myself organized and then let it all fall apart. I'm like that with exercize too.

Bad news for a parent of a child like mine who needs considerable scheduling to keep him on track (he's mildly autistic, with ADHD and LD).
But I'm trying to learn and it is a day by day process, and when depression gets in the way I have to learn to pick myself up and get back on track again. That's what I'm working on with my therapist now.

Depression, anxiety are commonly comorbid with ADD. If you look into it, be careful to go to someone with experience in Adult ADD.

Sara T.

 

Re: Procrastination as Disease

Posted by S.D. on May 29, 2000, at 20:53:52

In reply to Re: Procrastination as Disease, posted by JohnL on May 26, 2000, at 3:51:03

>When I finally found the medication that
>treated my anhedonia, I became interested in
>everyday normal activities--including work. So,
>when I cured the anhedonia, it also cured the
>procrastination.

Your description sounds much like my experience, except I still have the anhedonia/procrastination in spite of not otherwise being depressed (Parnate helped me eventually and I've been off it now a couple of months).
Was it the case for you that you continued to experience anhedonia even after other depression symptoms cleared (with or without meds)? What med is/was it that treated your anhedonia/procrastination?

peace and health,

S.D.


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