Thank you for sharing this so openly â what youâve described (immersive, repetitive daydreaming that interferes with daily life, studies, and sleep) is very similar to a condition some researchers call Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD). While not yet an official diagnosis in manuals like DSM-5, many psychologists recognize it as a real difficulty that can significantly affect focus, mood, and functioning. Your awareness that these daydreams are not just normal imagination but are persistent, immersive, and interfering with your life is important. It sounds like a coping mechanism your mind is using (perhaps for stress, loneliness, or unmet emotional needs) â but right now, itâs working against you rather than for you.
Next Steps
1. Seek a mental health professional (psychologist/counsellor) â mention specifically âissues with maladaptive daydreaming / intrusive imageryâ so they understand your focus. 2. Get an evaluation for coexisting conditions like anxiety, OCD, ADHD, or depression, since MD often overlaps with them. 3. Track your daydream triggers â note when (time of day), where (bed, desk, etc.), and what feelings precede them. This record will be very helpful for therapy. 4. Discuss therapy approaches: CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) to challenge thought loops. Mindfulness and grounding to reduce immersion. Behavioural scheduling (structuring tasks so thereâs less unoccupied time).
Health Tips
Restructure environment: Avoid lying in bed awake for long periods; use desk study and move locations when you catch yourself slipping into fantasy. Anchor activities: Keep your hands/mind slightly busy (fidget tool, chewing gum, soft music) during study â reduces immersion. â¢Set âdaydream timeâ: Instead of total suppression (which backfires), allow a short, controlled 10â15 minute âimagination breakâ â then return to tasks. Body grounding: Touch something textured, stretch, or do 5â4â3â2â1 senses exercise when caught in a loop. Prioritize sleep hygiene: fixed sleep/wake times, no bed use for study, calming pre-sleep routine â since tiredness fuels daydreaming. Guilt reduction: Remind yourself that this isnât laziness, but a habit your brain has built â and habits can be reshaped with support.