Understanding The Sustained Attention Executive Function Skill (And What To Do If This Is A Challenge For You)

​(Published at Psychology Today)

By Catherine Mutti-Driscoll

Sustained attention is a crucial executive function skill, and it is the first topic we will explore in this series on ADHD and executive function skills. Executive function skills are brain-based abilities that help us accomplish tasks and manage our daily lives (Dawson & Guare, 2016). For those with ADHD, some executive function skills may be significant strengths, while others present complex challenges.

What is Sustained Attention?

Sustained attention refers to the ability to remain focused on the primary content of a situation, even when it is uninteresting or when we have low energy. The "main content" can vary depending on the context. For example:

• At a movie, the main content is watching the film.
• During social interactions, it is engaging in conversation and interaction.
• In class, the main content may be the teacher’s lecture or participation in a required peer discussion.

People with strong, sustained attention can maintain their focus on the main content of a situation most of the time despite boredom, fatigue, or lack of interest. In contrast, individuals with ADHD often struggle to regulate their attention in such situations, particularly if they find them dull or fatigued. Many with ADHD may hyperfocus on interesting tasks, but focusing on less engaging tasks can be tricky (Mutti-Driscoll, 2024).

Strategies to Improve Sustained Attention

If you struggle with sustained attention some or all of the time, here are some strategies that might help:

• Engage in Tasks of Interest: Whenever possible, work on tasks that genuinely interest you to boost your attention naturally.
• Optimize Your Energy Levels: Tackle tasks requiring more focus during peak energy times. Some people are most energized in the morning, while others may have more energy later in the day.
• Modify Your Environment: Adjust your surroundings to make focusing easier. For example, listening to music while doing chores or using a fidget toy during lectures can help maintain attention.
• Consider Seeking an ADHD Diagnosis: If you suspect you might have ADHD, seeking a diagnosis could lead to treatments like medication, which can help improve sustained attention.
• Take Movement Breaks: Regular breaks, such as a short walk, can refresh your focus and prevent fatigue from setting in.

These strategies help whether you feel your sustained attention skills are strong or need improvement. Remember, since sustained attention is a brain-based skill, it’s essential to be kind to yourself when you face difficulties. Like any skill, sustained attention can be developed with practice and the right strategies tailored to your needs.

Understanding and applying these techniques can enhance your ability to sustain attention and manage tasks more effectively.

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