What is Attention and How Does It Work?
Attention is the ability to direct our consciousness to a specific subject and keep it there. All living beings have a similar attention mechanism to notice predators, find a mate, or protect themselves from danger. However, the human brain has developed a much more complex system on top of these basic circuits.
The attention system is a complex process where many networks work together, from the lower parts of the brain to the forebrain. When our mind focuses on a certain point, the “attention network” is activated and allows us to keep our attention there. Three main networks work together in our brain:
- Attention network: Enables focus.
- Default mode network: Represents the state of mind-wandering or being idle.
- Salience network: Allows us to choose what to pay attention to.
For example, when we are thirsty, we notice water in a room more easily. This is an example of the salience network’s function. For us to use our attention efficiently, these three networks need to work in harmony.
The Neurochemical Basis of Attention
When looking at the neurochemical basis of attention, two substances stand out:
- Noradrenaline (norepinephrine): Keeps the brain awake and alert. It helps us wake up in the morning and focus during the day. Its deficiency can lead to inattention.
- Dopamine: The chemical of motivation and reward. It increases when we do something we enjoy, prompting us to repeat that behavior. It plays a crucial role in sustaining attention.
This is why we can focus for long periods on enjoyable activities (like watching a movie), while it is much harder to sustain attention on boring tasks.
Causes of Attention Deficit
There are two main causes of attention deficit:
- Connective and genetic reasons: The unhealthy development of brain networks in the womb or early childhood. This is also seen at the core of disorders like autism, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder.
- Environmental reasons: The fast and constantly changing stimuli of the digital world prevent young people from practicing sustained attention. Attention is like a muscle; it doesn’t develop if not used.
If a child can play computer games for hours, it is not a genetic attention deficit. The game increases dopamine secretion, making it easier to focus. However, in boring tasks like studying, dopamine levels drop, and attention is quickly lost.
The Solution: How to Strengthen Attention?
Attention can be strengthened by exercising it, just like a muscle. One of the most effective methods for this is meditation and mindfulness exercises. The simplest practice is to focus on your breath for a few minutes a day. Initially, the mind will wander constantly, but gently redirecting your attention back to the breath when you notice it works the brain’s attention networks.
Studies show that even people who practice breath awareness for just 14 minutes once experience a measurable increase in attention. With regular practice, this skill strengthens, and focusing becomes easier.
Conclusion
In conclusion, attention deficit is one of the most significant problems of our age. However, it is possible to overcome it. By taking time for ourselves and practicing exercises to keep our mind on a single point, we can both strengthen our attention and better perceive the different layers of life.