The Broken Education System: My Struggles and Reflections

Going through the education system can often be a challenging journey, filled with highs and lows. For some, it can be a supportive and empowering environment, while for others, it can feel like an insurmountable obstacle. My journey through school was fraught with difficulties, which were exacerbated by my unique challenges such as ADHD and anxiety. This article delves into my struggles and how these experiences have shaped my view on the education system.

Early Challenges and Misunderstandings

My school life was marked by a series of misunderstandings and misdiagnoses. When I joined, my teachers immediately assumed that my anger issues stemmed from a lack of intelligence. This was a significant barrier to forming a connection with my educators, and it took the intervention of my music teacher to challenge these preconceptions. The misinterpretation of my behavioral issues continued, and instead of addressing the underlying anxiety and ADHD, my teachers assumed I was simply not putting in the effort. As the year progressed, I faced constant disciplinary issues without any recognition of my hardships. This persistent neglect and the inability to understand my struggles began to take a toll on my mental health. Depression and anxiety set in as I repeatedly brought up the issues of ADHD and sought help from my counselor, only to be brushed aside.

Diagnosing and Addressing ADHD

While my ADHD was slowly being taken seriously, my exam anxiety was dismissed. The inconsistent support and the continued assumption that I was not trying hard enough were damaging to my academic potential. Despite my efforts to improve, my teachers remained skeptical. I did attempt to do higher papers with the help of my friends, and the concept was understandable for me at times. However, the lack of proper support and the instant doubt cast upon me by my teachers led me to conclude that I was simply not being recognized for my capabilities.

One incident that stands out particularly vividly was when my friend wrote a higher math question for me during an exam. My teacher, in a moment of compassion, whispered to her that I couldn't do it. However, to everyone's surprise, I managed to score all the marks and found the question easy. This incident exemplifies the unfair assumptions and the lack of support that I faced. My struggles were not adequately acknowledged, and I was constantly labeled as someone who didn't want to learn or care. This perception followed me to college, where I continue to grapple with the legacy of my school experiences.

Exams and Unfairness

Another significant issue during my school years was the lack of support during exams. I was repeatedly placed in an unfair situation where my potential was ignored. For instance, when I requested the opportunity to take a higher paper, I was told that I would fail. This further reinforced the belief that my efforts were not valued and that I was not given a fair chance. When it came to the time of the exams, the original plans were changed without prior notice, leaving me in the exam hall. Despite my explanations and attempts to prove myself, I was never given the opportunity to do so. This systemic failure to provide a supportive environment is a critical flaw in our education system.

The Impact on Mental Health and Future Learning

The poor treatment during my school years has had a lasting impact on my mental health and my approach to learning. Now, at college, I often feel guilty for being happy and carefree, knowing that I was not given the support and opportunities that I deserved. The lack of understanding and the constant skepticism about my abilities have created a negative narrative that I often question. My counselor did acknowledge that the school environment was not supportive of mental health, which further highlights the systemic issues in the education system.

Going forward, it is crucial to address these issues and ensure that every student receives the support they need to excel. This includes recognizing and accommodating students with ADHD, providing proper mental health support, and avoiding assumptions based on behavior. The education system should strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment that values individual differences and potential. It is only through such efforts that we can build a better future for all students.