What is Executive Dysfunction?
Published February 15th, 2024
4.5 min read
Some mental health conditions affect how well we can manage our feelings, actions, and behaviours.
Written by Simon Spichak
Executive dysfunction is a common symptom of many mental health conditions like ADHD and depression. It makes it hard to plan ahead, organize thoughts, concentrate, and finish tasks on time. Executive dysfunction can be treated through therapy and by managing any underlying mental health conditions.
What is executive dysfunction and executive function?
Executive dysfunction (also called executive dysfunction disorder or disordered executive function) refers to problems with executive function, the system in the brain that helps regulate emotions, stay organized and concentrate on important tasks.
The prefrontal cortex is the part of the brain that controls these functions as a master regulator.
Core components of executive function include:
Short-term or working memory. This component of executive function stores temporary information and pulls it up as needed. For example, it can help you bring up, process, and analyze information while studying or writing an essay. When working memory isn’t working, it takes much longer to research, solve problems, or recall information.
Inhibition control. This component of executive function prevents you from being distracted. When you’re trying to focus in class or study, inhibition control prevents your brain from wandering off and helps you resist the urge to check your phone.
Task shifting or switching. This component helps the brain switch over from doing one task to another. When there are problems with shifting or switching between tasks, it can take longer to focus and get into the flow of things.
Cognitive flexibility. The ability to be creative, think outside the box and adapt to new situations or circumstances.
Signs and symptoms of executive dysfunction
In children, the signs of executive dysfunction can start very early and can lead to a lot of problems in school. Common symptoms in kids include:
Forgetting to do homework and assignments
Having a hard time getting themselves to start working on homework by themselves
Losing things frequently
Trouble listening or following instructions
Problems remembering names and other details
Being easily distracted
Having trouble guessing how long different tasks will take to do
In adults, the symptoms can look similar too. The symptoms lead to:
Trouble with time organization or planning ahead
Difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks
Problems with emotional regulation
Difficulties with time management
Problems with thinking, analyzing or processing information
These symptoms can affect personal relationships, self-esteem, motivation, and success in school and work.
Is executive dysfunction the same as ADHD?
While most people with ADHD might experience problems with executive function, many people with an executive function disorder do not have ADHD.
Executive function disorder also affects people across the neurodivergence spectrum as well as people with other mental health conditions, including:
Anxiety and depression
Autism spectrum disorder
Schizophrenia
Sleep disorders
How is executive dysfunction treated?
Treating executive dysfunction involves figuring out what is causing the problems in the first place.
For example, something like chronic stress could be addressed by making lifestyle changes to help you relax. If the problem is another mental illness, part of the treatment might involve medications or therapy specific to that mental illness.
One common form of therapy that helps people improve their executive function skills is called cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It can help you learn to manage intrusive thoughts and impulses and change how you respond to them.
Some people also opt for organizational coaching, which can involve using various accessibility tools and assistive technology to help you manage your executive function.
If you’re struggling with executive dysfunction, Resolvve is here to help. Our therapists can work with you to find the right assistive technology, tools, and therapy to help improve your performance in school or work, help improve your relationships, and manage your emotions.
Please note that this post is written for educational purposes; it is not therapy. If you need to talk to a professional, please book a consultation with a psychotherapist through Resolvve.
