managing university

[largemoth]

does anybody have any tips for managing university while suffering from medication side effects and seizures? I was diagnosed with epilepsy a month ago and upon returning to university I am having quite a difficult time keeping up. I somehow managed to finish writing a 3000 word essay for my design theory class today. needless to say it was a nightmare. Constantly spacing out and forgetting things while having auras and god knows what else on top of that is certainly no fun at all when attempting to write 'academically' (or do anything for that matter). so any tips or methods for managing a full time university load would be appreciated. (if it matters at all I am studying communication design) Thanks

 

[Jeanbean]

I'm sorry to hear about your struggles I went through the same thing. I did get a tutor but that didn't help much as it was a math class I couldn't pass. They finally waived me through the class and that did help. Our University had a program for people who needed help. I spoke to a counselor a few times felt great relief. I finally lowered my load of hours and changed my degree to something more manageable. I wish you the best. Jeanne

 

[Nakamova]

Hey largemoth, here in the U.S. some universities will offer individualized accommodations for students with medical issues -- things like getting extra time for taking tests or completing assignments, or having someone take notes for you. Is that an option at your school?

 

[Dignan]

I think Nak's notes are good ideas. And, if the school gives you extra time, it may not be needed forever. For example, you noted that you began a month ago, and I can tell you that sometimes it takes your body (and particularly the brain) time to adjust to the meds, so your thinking may improve with time. I know when I began keppra, it took me about six months to not feel "slow" in my thinking, but once that subsided I was able to work more efficiently.

I did feel that some other things, like creativity have not fully come back, but I was able to get back to my work duties. Hopefully, if you are new to your med, your body will adjust and things will get easier for you. Maybe you can reduce your coursework load for a semester and give yourself time to adjust. If that does not happen, maybe you should express your concerns to your doctor and see if there is an adjustment that can be made to balance your neurological needs and those of your quality of life and ability to think more clearly.

Best of luck!