Executive dysfunction

Executive dysfunction means the skills that manage planning and task‑starting are harder to use in that moment. It is about brain load, not effort.

Definition

Executive dysfunction describes times when executive function skills are less available. Stress, fatigue, or sensory overload can reduce capacity. People may struggle to start tasks, sequence steps, or hold multiple items in mind. Support focuses on simplifying tasks and reducing decision load.

Why it matters here

We design routines to reduce decision fatigue and lower the activation barrier.

In NeuroBreath you can use this term for…

Common misunderstandings

  • It is the same as laziness.
  • More pressure will fix it.

Related terms

Citations & review

Educational only. External links are provided as copy‑only references.

Written by:NeuroBreath Editorial Team·Editorial team
Reviewed by:Evidence Review Desk·Evidence reviewer
Editorial roles: Author drafts content · Reviewer checks clarity and safety language · Evidence reviewer checks source quality · Accessibility reviewer checks readability. Meet the editorial team.

Last reviewed

17 Jan 2026

Next review due

16 Jul 2026

Updated

17 Jan 2026

Evidence & sources

0 sources · tiers C

Update history
  • 17 Jan 2026contentInitial glossary definition published.

Educational information only — not medical advice. Read the disclaimer.

Executive dysfunction — Glossary | NeuroBreath | NeuroBreath