Strategies for People with Difficulty Concentrating

Many people who have had a stroke, brain injury, or other neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD may have trouble concentrating or paying attention. People with problems concentrating might notice they get distracted easily and have difficulty finishing tasks like completing their household chores. Some may have trouble switching from one task to another such as answering a phone call and then returning to a work task. Problems concentrating can make it hard to learn new information such as how to use a new computer program. Occupational therapists can help those with strokes and brain injuries compensate for these difficulties with strategies. I like to think of strategies as tips and tricks to help us do the things we need to do and want to do. A few quick tips and tricks if you have difficulty concentrating:

• Minimize distractions. Try working in a quiet room, turning off your cell phone, and decrease the clutter in your work space.
• Do one thing at a time. We often want to multitask but none of us actually function better that way. Turn off your phone, close your email, and focus on the task at hand.
• Take regular rest breaks. Our brains need breaks just like our muscles do. Take breaks when doing tasks that require a lot of mental energy. Take a walk or do some stretches, return to the task when your mind is refreshed.
• Get a good night's sleep. We think best when we are well rested. Professionals such as occupational therapists and psychologists can help provide strategies to improve your sleep. Talk to your doctor to see if any of your medications may be making it difficult to sleep.

If you would like to know more about how occupational therapy can help you incorporate strategies such as these into your daily activities contact Moxie OT today!