Logo Kanton Bern / Canton de BerneUniversities of Bern Counselling Centre

Difficulty concentrating

Are you currently having a little trouble concentrating on your work or learning? Here you will find information about what is going on inside us when we have trouble concentrating.

It is perfectly normal for us not to be able to concentrate well all the time. But if this goes on for a long time, it can have a serious impact on our daily lives and our well-being.  

Introduction to the topic

  • Concentration problems can have both psychological and physical causes.

Basically, it is important for our brain that we get enough sleep, eat and drink enough, and get regular exercise. Try to take breaks every now and then and offer your brain some variety. Also, make sure to eliminate all potential sources of disturbance and distraction.

Concentration is also very often impaired in the presence of psychological stress and disorders. Is there a topic that is currently preoccupying you and demanding a lot of your energy? Besides your concentration, are your mood and motivation at a low at the moment? Try to talk to someone close to you and/or contact us so that together we can find out what the concentration problems might be related to.

It is also possible that your concentration difficulties are at least partly due to a physical cause, e.g. an iron deficiency. Check with your general practitioner if necessary. 

Factors that can affect our concentration

  • Stress
  • Multitasking
  • Poor light and air conditions
  • Unfavourable room temperature
  • Fatigue / lack of sleep
  • Vitamin and nutrient deficiencies (e.g. omega-3 fatty acids, iron, vitamin B12, hypothyroidism)

What is the connection between concentration difficulties and ADHD?

ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Difficulty concentrating can be a symptom of ADHD. For more information, visit the website «adhs 20+», an information and counselling centre for adults with ADHD in Switzerland:

Are you wondering whether you suffer from ADHD? Then you can take the World Health Organization (WHO) self-test online. It will give you some initial clues as to whether you might have ADHD:

  • General work techniques (overview)

  • Study-specific techniques (overview)

  • Counselling services (overview)

Share this page