Focus apps are failing neurodivergent minds, new research finds 

 ADHD in the News 2026-06-04


In today’s attention economy, social media platforms, entertainment apps and news feeds all compete for our focus. Millions of people have turned to focus apps in response to help them be more productive while studying or working. Some of these apps help us manage our attention by blocking distracting apps or websites. Whether it’s growing a virtual tree in Forest or locking down social media with Apple Screen Time, these apps promise to help us “regain control.” Unfortunately, if you’re neurodivergent, these digital distraction blockers may actually make you feel worse about yourself, according to our recent research at the University of British Columbia.

View Article: The Conversation, June 3, 2026




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