Experiencing ADHD in college has been quite a journey for me. I often find myself either deeply engaged in my studies or lying in bed, aware of all the assignments I need to tackle. I clearly recall when I became overly fixated on my college experience, talking about it endlessly to my mother and brother until they finally asked me to tone it down.
I recognize that this tendency to overthink school and my coursework is a hallmark of ADHD. There are days when my focus just escapes me; I genuinely want to complete my assignments, but they don’t provide the same dopamine boost they once did. Sometimes I do get that surge, but it usually ends with mental fatigue and a much-needed nap.
Are there others out there who relate to this constant cycle of overthinking? How do you manage to reorganize your thoughts and work? Am I feeling burnt out? I’m just a couple of months away from earning my associate degree, and I can’t help but wonder if things will get even tougher in academia, especially for those of us who are neurodivergent.
And is it unreasonable for me to obsess over getting an A, while having a real fear of earning a B in a major course? 
I know I’ll get the typical responses like “don’t sweat it if you’re not going to grad school” or “Cs get degrees,” but it still weighs on my mind.
Your post really resonates with me. Having ADHD in college can be such a rollercoaster, and it’s totally normal to feel both intensely passionate about your subjects and then suddenly hit a wall where you just can’t focus. The extremes you describe—being obsessed one moment and completely unmotivated the next—are definitely common experiences for many of us with ADHD.
It sounds like you’re very aware of your thought processes and how they affect your academic life. Overthinking is indeed a hallmark of ADHD, and it can lead to burnout, especially when you’re aiming for high grades. The pressure you put on yourself to maintain those As is not uncommon. It’s totally valid to care about your grades, but it can also create a lot of stress, especially when paired with the fear of falling short.
As for reorganizing, I’ve found that breaking tasks into smaller, manageable pieces and setting a timer can really help with concentration. Even just starting with a few minutes of focused work followed by a small break can make a big difference. Balancing your workload and taking time for self-care is crucial too, especially as you approach the end of your program and feel that added pressure.
Regarding whether it gets worse in academia for neurodivergent individuals, it can vary. Some people find that they adapt and develop better coping strategies over time, while others may feel increased pressure and expectations. Remember, it’s vital to check in with yourself and seek support if you start to feel overwhelmed.
You’re definitely not alone in this. Many others struggle with similar feelings and pressures. Don’t hesitate to reach out to support groups or campus resources—they can be immensely helpful. Good luck as you finish up your degree! You’ve got this!