Trouble retaining information

[BlahBlah12]

I dont know whether its from all the drinking I did while in college or taking xanax when I need it, but I cannot retain information like I used to.
I will read a nonfiction book or a textbook, understand it at the time, but forget the majority of information contained within it a few hours later unless I re-read it like 10 times and take notes.

I also have a ton of trouble concentrating..the minute i open up a book even if i want to read it, im looking in the refridge, checking my email, checking gossip sites...anything else but actually getting myself to the point where im settled down enough to read and concentrate

is this ADD?

 

[squeegee]

Got the same problem dude. Dopamine is a b**ch!

 

[HughJass]

more likely it's the depression and anxiety you are medicating with the xanax that is causing your concentration and memory problems

 

[ali777]

I'm not sure if it's directly related to alcohol or the lifestyle changes, but since I stopped drinking alcohol my brain functions much better. I still drink once in a blue moon. I'm somehow convinced alcohol has a part to play in it.

In my opinion the biggest problem is lack of motivation and anxiety. You need to find your comfort zone where you get things done. There is no magic formula here, everyone is different. I also don't perform well under pressure, the only way for me to do things is through finding my comfort zone.

I noticed the way my brain works has changed in the last few years, I'm 31 BTW. I take needed information much easier, and I filter out everything else, ie, I don't want to know it. I put it down to experience and changes in my mindset.

I'm not sure if this works for others, but think of it as something you want to do rather than you have to do. I mean treat your profession as a hobby and try to enjoy it. I know the lack of employment and money is not the best of motivations to pursue our hobbies, but you have to love what you are doing. You have to take a satisfaction out of it.

 

[mulder]

If you drank heavily and didn't eat right it may have had an impact. If you're taking Xanax now it can have an effect.