Monday, December 14, 2009

Jeremy and exams

My son is anxious, like his mom. He doesn't like to admit it, and last year took himself off all the medications he had been on since he was 8 years old. He has done quite well, and actually, the cognitive dulling the medications caused has lifted, so he has been doing very well in that department. However, sometimes he has a hard time, and exam season I'm afraid is conducive to this sort of problem.
He takes his philosophy exam tomorrow. He has studied a lot for it, but has failed every exam this semester, despite studying. He should probably not be taking regular timed exams because of his disabilities, but he refuses all assistance, although he is entitled to it. So he is not sleeping, is angry, feels helpless, and doesn't know if he'll ever make it through college. He failed most of his classes last year because of this very reason.
I told him he might think about going to Disabled Students, but that would require him to go back to a psychiatrist and probably on a few meds again, and I don't think he is willing to do that or even that it would be the best thing for him right now, in most ways.
He has done very well in English class, but then there are no exams in this English class, and he has two English professor/writer parents, so it's not a surprise. I feel for him, but I don't think there is anything else I can do for him.

4 comments:

lou said...

Good luck to Jeremy!

Robbi N. said...

That's all we can wish him, although Richard stayed up all last night working out a last minute study guide for him and entering all the emendations Jeremy has made to his paper into the computer. Jeremy can't really keyboard either, except with one finger.

Robin said...

I am sorry to hear Jeremy is having so much trouble in philosophy! I know I had my problems as an ADHD kid, and felt frustrated a lot in school. So I can relate--a bit! But his success in Engish (especially knowing how tough the IVC classes can be!) is a really hopeful sign! Hopefully, he can remind himself of his achievements in English, Sports, etc. so his self esteem doesn't suffer too much.

Robbi N. said...

It took a lot of work, and a very good couple of teachers (Brenda and Richard) to help him make that improvement. He just didn't have that with the other classes.