Why You Can’t Focus Anymore,And How to Fix It

The Interview at a Glance

In the interview, Dr. Jackson discusses:

• How stress affects brain function and why it feels harder to focus, remember, or regulate emotions under pressure

• The neuroscience of why movement, sleep, hydration, and food choices matter more than ever

• Realistic steps you can take to improve brain performance starting today

• How Brain Balance is helping adults, not just kids, overcome mental overload and thrive again

Key Takeaways for Parents and Adults

Stress Steals Your Brainpower

Dr. Jackson explains that when we’re under constant pressure—whether from work, parenting, or just daily responsibilities—our brain starts rerouting energy away from higher-level functions like focus, emotional control, and memory. Instead, it shifts to survival mode.

“We all have those days where we’re short with our kids or forget what we were doing. It’s not just fatigue—it’s your brain signaling that it’s maxed out.”

Try this:

• Pause when you feel mentally foggy or irritable.
• Ask yourself: Am I tired, hungry, dehydrated, or overstimulated?
• Take a moment to reset—step outside, drink water, or write a quick to-do list to offload mental clutter.

Movement = Brain Fuel

Exercise isn’t just for physical health—it’s essential for brain performance. Dr. Jackson breaks down three types of movement and how they benefit the brain differently:

• Quick bursts (3–5 minutes of jumping jacks, squats, brisk walking) fire up focus and attention

• Sustained movement (like walking or swimming for 20–30 minutes) boosts cognitive stamina and mood

• Strength training (even light resistance) helps release brain-protective hormones and reduces inflammation

“If you’re stuck mentally, move your body. Engage your core. There’s a reason teachers say ‘sit up straight’—it turns the brain on.”

Try this:

• Before work or school drop-off, do a 5-minute power walk.
• Break up long sitting periods with 2-minute stretch breaks.
• Add light resistance (like bodyweight squats or light dumbbells) 2–3 times per week.

The Brain Runs on Nutrients, Not Just Calories

Processed foods, added sugars, and low-nutrient meals are robbing your brain of what it needs. Dr. Jackson encourages listeners to focus on what to add, not just what to cut:

• Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale

• Berries (especially blueberries) for antioxidant power

• Healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and omega-3s

• Protein for stable mood and energy

• Probiotics for gut-brain health

“Your brain can’t function well if it’s not getting what it needs. Even small changes—like a smoothie in the morning—can make a big difference.”

Try this:

• Start the day with a smoothie: spinach + berries + avocado + protein powder
• Keep nuts or hard-boiled eggs on hand for quick, nutrient-dense snacks
• Swap sugary yogurts or bars for options lower in added sugar

Hydration Is Your Secret Weapon

Dr. Jackson shares that even a 2% drop in hydration can affect cognitive performance. And yet, many adults go through the day without drinking enough water.

Try this:

• Use a large, time-marked water bottle and aim to finish it daily
• Start the morning with water before coffee
• Add lemon, cucumber, or a splash of juice if plain water feels boring

It’s Not About Perfection—It’s About Repetition

Dr. Jackson emphasizes that sustainable brain health comes from consistent, small habits—not major overhauls.

“You don’t need to do everything perfectly. You just need to do the right things often enough that they become your routine.”

Try this:

• Make a weekly checklist with brain-healthy goals: move daily, hydrate, get protein, reduce sugar
• Post it somewhere visible for daily reinforcement
• Track small wins, not perfect days

Brain Balance Is Helping Adults, Too

While Brain Balance is well known for helping kids improve focus, behavior, and emotional regulation, it’s not just for children. Dr. Jackson explains how the same proven principles of brain connectivity, movement, nutrition, and cognitive training now support adults struggling with:

• Burnout

• Brain fog

• Mood swings

• Poor focus or memory

• Overstimulation and emotional dysregulation

With personalized coaching, in-center or virtual sessions, and a multi-modal approach tailored to adult lifestyles, the Brain Balance adult program is a powerful solution for anyone ready to feel sharp, present, and in control again.

You’re Not Just Tired—Your Brain Is Telling You Something

Parenting. Working. Juggling life. It's not just stressful—it’s neurologically demanding. If you’ve been feeling like your brain just can’t keep up, this episode of It’s Your Choice offers clarity and direction. Dr. Jackson reminds us that the symptoms we’re feeling—irritability, forgetfulness, mental fatigue—aren’t personality flaws. They’re signs the brain needs support.

And support is available.

Listen to the Full Interview

"This Is Why You Can’t Focus Anymore — And How to Fix It Fast"
with Dr. Rebecca Jackson on It’s Your Choice with Sally Pederson
▶️ Watch on YouTube
🎧 Listen on Spotify

Ready to Rebuild Your Brain Health?

Explore how the Brain Balance Adult Program can help you restore focus, improve mood, and regain control over your daily life.

• Learn more about our Adult Program

• Read Back on Track by Dr. Rebecca Jackson

• Schedule a free consultation