Do you ever feel like your brain just isn’t doing what it’s, err, supposed to?
Maybe you stare at your calendar for minutes only tostillstruggle with planning your day.
These scenarios are examples of a real phenomenon known as executive dysfunction, and it can happen to anyone.
Photo: Getty Images
What Is Executive Function?
to make it understand executivedysfunction, you must first understand executive function.
Say a deadline is unexpectedly moved up at work.
Such flexible thinking and adaptability are just two of many healthy executive functions.
That being said, this optimal, healthy functioning can ebb and flow throughout your day.
However, at other times, you might not excel at, for example, focus or time management.
Some of that is just a result of being human.
What Is Executive Dysfunction?
(To quote Hannah Montana, “everyone makes mistakes, everyone has those days.")
“Don’t jump to conclusions and assume that you are suffering from this malady.
Odds are you’re just having a bad day or a tough week.”
So, What Causes Executive Dysfunction?
traumatic brain injury) as well as mood disorders or psychiatric conditions (e.g.
ADHD), according to areview article inContinuum.
Meaning, executive dysfunction is often considered a symptom of what is usually a larger issue.
COVID-19, which is believed to cause someexecutive dysfunction.
Asmall study from February 2021found that 81 percent of patients experienced cognitive impairment while recovering from prolonged COVID-19 hospitalization.
Those who haven’t had severe coronavirus are also at risk for dysfunction.
Once executive dysfunction is diagnosed by a qualified professional, there are plenty of treatment options available.
The key, however, is identification and proactive treatment.
(
The good news?
Tools for Managing Executive Dysfunction
Limit screen time.
In other words, CBT directly targets executive functions (e.g.
organizing and planning, coping with distractions, adapting thoughts to circumstances, etc.)
“to help someone adjust their behaviors around an accepted set of circumstances,” explains Breland-Noble.
(BTW, did you know thatsleeping with socksmight also help you catch those Z’s?)
On the flip side, low levels of dopamine and norepinephrine can lead to attention deficits.
“So any activity that increases these levels could boost focus.”
Celebrate achieving that small assignment, and see if you feel motivated to continue.
