Self-help program
1. WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?
At its best, attention stays on the relevant task without extra effort for as long as needed. It can shift to a new focus when necessary. Often, this shift happens automatically—for example, when reacting to sounds or changes.
Attention can also be directed consciously. For some people, this voluntary control is easier than for others.
Difficulty concentrating
Difficulty concentrating means focusing on the wrong things—it isn’t a complete lack of ability to concentrate.
In the following expert video (1:09), you will hear about:
- symptoms related to concentration difficulties
- underlying causes of these symptoms
- ways you can try to work on them yourself
Typical difficulties
Sometimes attention is drawn to irrelevant things or wanders uncontrollably. When you’re supposed to listen to a lecture, you may find yourself looking at a bird outside the window or checking a notification on your phone. While reading, you may find yourself starting to think about work stuff.
When regulating attention is difficult, even important things may be missed. Appointments or deadlines may be forgotten, and it can be hard to focus on listening to others.
Associated difficulties
Concentration problems are often linked with other difficulties in regulating your own behavior.
It may be difficult to:
- predict what’s next
- make plans
- manage your time effectively
In such cases, this is referred to as difficulties with executive functioning.
In addition to thoughts, behavior may also be impulsive, and emotions may fluctuate.
How can these problems appear?
Difficulty managing the flow of your thoughts can lead to many kinds of problems. A wandering mind can be frustrating, and getting things done may take a lot of time.
Effective learning and memory require concentration and the ability to regulate your own behavior. Difficulty concentrating can affect relationships as well as your ability to cope at work and in school or university.
If concentration difficulties persist, repeated failures and negative feedback may weaken self-confidence.
Concentration difficulties are common
Despite difficulty concentrating, many people live rich and fulfilling lives.
In the following video (2:43), people experiencing concentration difficulties share what kinds of professions they have pursued and how these challenges have felt at different stages of life. At the end of the video, you will hear how a meaningful career as an entrepreneur emerged through a different kind of learning path.
Remember
Difficulty managing the direction of attention can lead to problems, for example, in:
- learning
- time management
- relationships
Improving concentration
Everyone can think about what helps them concentrate and take steps to improve it.
Concentration difficulties related to a challenging life situation may pass on their own. Managing stress and taking care of yourself may help.
If difficulty concentrating clearly causes problems, it’s important to look at your own habits and behavior. Even small insights and new routines can make a big difference.
Self-Help Program
You can improve your concentration even if no underlying cause is diagnosed. With a Self-Help Program, anyone can learn more about concentration and find ways to improve it.
The program can be valuable even if you’re already receiving treatment or support for your difficulties.
In the following video (1:39), you will hear what the Self-Help Program includes and how to do the exercises.
Professional help
In addition to independent self-help, professional support is also available for concentration difficulties. If this Self-Help Program does not provide sufficient help, you will find tips at the end of the program on how to seek further support.