Distractions are my best friends and worst enemies.

Distractions keep me from thinking, from worrying about the problems or what others could be thinking. A busy schedule keeps me awake, unable to fall back into my mental problems.

I got a new job recently, working a long six hours. Because of this, I haven’t had many anxiety problems and I haven’t been able to worry. It was nice not panicking all the time.

But distractions can make my life hell.

I’ve got things to do, plans, and something happens and my whole life plan gets thrown out the window. I need to empty the dishwasher, but if anyone talks to me between putting my bag down and getting to the kitchen, it will not happen.

Sometimes, I focus so much on doing something, I actually convince myself I’ve already done it. Then I freak out when people get mad at me for not doing something, I thought I did.

Then I get worried, I’m off schedule and the rest of the day is falling apart. My day is now ruined.

Distractions keep me from overthinking and falling into a depressive episode, but distractions make my ADHD and anxiety worse.

Sometimes, I need a distraction. Something to cut me away from what’s happening. Other times, I need to be left completely alone in order to get things done. And sometimes, I don’t even know which I need at that time. Within moments, I can totally change in what I need to function, which is hard on those around me.