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What happens in the brain when your mind blanks

Mind blanking is a common experience characterized by lapses in attention, memory issues, and cessation of inner speech. Studies have shown that it's associated with specific neural signatures and changes in arousal levels, leading to malfunctions in key cognitive mechanisms like memory and language.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Cognitive Sciences·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 24, 2025

Why children can’t pay attention to the task at hand

Children's brains cannot focus on tasks because their working memory is not fully developed, according to a new study. Researchers found that even with rewards, children still 'over explore' and gather unnecessary information. This suggests that kids are naturally curious and unsure of retaining information in their memory.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPsychological Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2024

Breakthrough study shows exercise improves cognitive health for people with Down syndrome

A breakthrough study found that light exercise can improve cognitive health in adults with Down syndrome, leading to improved information processing and attention. After just eight weeks of walking, participants showed significant increases in physical fitness and reductions in errors during cognitive assessments.

SourceAnglia Ruskin University·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateNov 29, 2023

UTA research examines how to stay on task

A new study by researchers at UTA found that setting specific goals can significantly improve sustained attention and reduce attention lapses. The results suggest that goal-setting techniques can help individuals better stay focused, particularly in tasks that require sustained attention.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalAttention Perception & Psychophysics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

Researchers gain a better understanding of how the most commonly used ADHD medication works

A new study has shed light on how the most commonly used ADHD medication, methylphenidate, works in the brain. The research found that methylphenidate increases dopamine levels in the nucleus accumbens and improves coordinated brain network activity, resulting in more stable sustained attention in children with ADHD.

SourceElsevier·JournalBiological Psychiatry Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging·TypeObservational study·DateDec 8, 2022

Omega-3 fatty acids, and in particular DHA, are associated with increased attention scores in adolescents

A study of 332 adolescents found that higher levels of DHA were associated with better selective and sustained attention, while ALA was linked to lower impulsivity. The results suggest the importance of a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids for healthy brain development.

SourceBarcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal)·JournalEuropean Child & Adolescent Psychiatry·TypeObservational study·DateSep 28, 2022

Music intervention and mindfulness reduces the effect of mental fatigue

A new study found that music-intervention (binaural beats) and 4 weeks of daily mindfulness training significantly reduced the effect of mental fatigue on sustained attention. The experienced mindfulness group performed better than others, indicating that practicing mindfulness helps focus and handle stressful situations.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark Faculty of Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Cognitive Enhancement·DateMar 6, 2020

Meditate regularly for an improved attention span in old age

Regular meditation practice has been shown to improve sustained attention and response inhibition in older adults, with benefits partially maintained over seven years. Despite plateauing, the cognitive gains observed suggest potential long-term benefits of continued meditation practice.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cognitive Enhancement·DateMar 28, 2018