What's happening to my understanding of math?

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SUMMARY

A physics major in their third semester is experiencing a sudden and profound disconnect with fundamental mathematical concepts, including negative numbers, acceleration, and basic algebraic operations. Despite having a strong academic background and a passion for mathematics, the individual feels an overwhelming sense of confusion and frustration regarding their understanding. The discussion highlights the importance of addressing mental health concerns when faced with cognitive dissonance in academic performance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic algebraic concepts, including the distributive property.
  • Familiarity with Newton's Second Law of Motion (F=ma).
  • Knowledge of fundamental physics principles, particularly acceleration.
  • Awareness of mental health implications related to academic stress.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research cognitive dissonance and its effects on learning and understanding.
  • Explore resources on mental health support for students in STEM fields.
  • Learn about effective study techniques to reinforce understanding of mathematical concepts.
  • Investigate the relationship between anxiety and academic performance in higher education.
USEFUL FOR

Students in STEM disciplines, particularly those studying physics and mathematics, educators, and mental health professionals interested in the cognitive challenges faced by high-achieving students.

davidbenari
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I don't know if this is the right place to post this but something very horrible is happening to me. And I wanted to know if anyone can relate to it.

It's worth mentioning I'm somewhat advanced in my undergrad as a physics major (3rd semester).
The thing is this (although it probably includes more things than the description I'm about to give):

All of a sudden, negative numbers make no sense to me. All of a sudden I don't know what acceleration is. I don't know why its a constant here on earth. I don't understand how all forces are reducible to F=ma. I don't understand simple stuff like the distributive property or whatever, and other algebraic steps. I have the feeling I don't understand what addition and substraction is.

Although I do understand all this! I love math and love proofs and theorems, so I know why all of those things are valid.

For some reason, I have the same feeling you get when you don't comprehend something, even though I do understand all of this. It's incredibly frustrating, I don't know what's up. It's like I have the feeling of not-understanding even though I do and it's bugging me all the time.

Has anyone had this experience, and know what to do about it?

I've been trying to ignore my thoughts, but it's pretty darn hard.

Thanks for listening.

Edit: I realize this post might make me sound pretty dumb or whatever, put please consider I am a top student, with excellent grades, who has seen "advanced mathematics". Something is seriously wrong here. Thanks.
 
Last edited:
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David, we are unable to diagnose you. Please see a doctor as soon as possible. I hope you feel better soon.
 
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