What Is the Lethargic Brain?

When you are experiencing a lethargic brain, you may feel “under-aroused” or slow to process information. Your boss or teachers may perceive you as apathetic, depressed, or unmotivated, at least by mundane tasks. You may also have cognitive and learning issues, or at least be perceived as having them, as these concerns can contribute to or be confused with focus problems.

Science of the Lethargic Brain

The lethargic brain is caused primarily by low levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine. Problems with the neurotransmitter acetylcholine may also be part of the cause. Acetylcholine controls several brain activities, including your ability to:

• Retrieve and implement information quickly and efficiently
• Have good muscle coordination and contraction
• Pay attention
• Communicate ideas and concepts
• Have healthy social interactions
• Have an open mind and a flexible attitude

Mitochondrial dysfunction may also be a cause of slow brain processing speed.  Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell that create energy to fuel the body and brain. The signs and symptoms of mitochondrial dysfunction are diverse, but most apparent in systems like the brain and gut. These symptoms can include:

• Fatigue
• Language impairment (apraxia)
• Social impairment
• Weakness
• Clumsiness
• Poor growth
• Gastrointestinal dysfunction (constipation or diarrhea)
• Seizures
• Headaches
• Developmental delay or regression
• Low muscle tone
• Cognitive delay (usually slow processing)

The Good News

You can reboot your mitochondria and neurotransmitters. There are many strategies that can help you balance your subtype and focus a Lethargic Brain. See below key tools to help you reclaim your focus.