Introduction to Executive Functioning
Who is impacted by executive functioning challenges?
everyone/anyone can experience challenges
What is self-monitoring?
The ability to monitor and regulate self-presentations, emotions and behaviors in response to social environments and situations
What is emotional regulation?
It is the ability to modify or change your thoughts, emotions, actions and words to enable goal directed actions and to reframe
What is working memory?
The brain’s process of manipulating this information so that it is useful is Working Memory
Why is executive functioning challenging?
brains have limited capacity for input/output energy
brains can be overwhelmed
Name 2 things that can impact self-monitoring
thoughts
behaviors
emotions
physiological sensations
What is the window of tolerance?
the ideal zone, when our nervous system can manage and process emotional and respond to challenges.
What are 2 types of working memory (discussed in the video)?
Verbal (words)
Non-verbal (images)
Name 2 of the 4 reasons listed in week 1 that executive functioning is important
to increase self-esteem
to increase self-efficacy
to provide psychoeducation
to build resilience
What role does environment play in self-monitoring?
we may adjust behaviors
or feel, think, respond differently in different settings
What are 3 ways we can increase/widen our window of tolerance?
guided breathing
cold exposure
progressive muscle relaxation
hum/chant/sing
mindfulness/meditation
massage
relaxation exercises
What are some common challenges with working memory? (name 2)
remembering next steps
following directions
planning
changing topics suddenly
making irrelevant comments
recalling what you just read
What are the '4 pillars' that support executive functioning and mental health?
Eat, Sleep, Move your body, hydrate
Name the 4 pillars that support mental health & executive functioning
Eat
Sleep
Hydrate
Move your body
Thinking back- what are 3 external aids that support working memory?
lists
planners
apps
turn off notifications
reduce distractions
We have talked about 3 executive functions so far in group. Name 5 more that we will discuss.
Metacognition
Response Inhibition
Focus/Sustained Attention
Planning & Prioritizing
Cognitive Flexibility
Task Initiation
Goal Directed Persistence
Time Management
Organization
Thinking back- What are the 2 types of self-monitoring?
Acquisitive (attention, approval, fit in)
Protective (prevent perceived embarrassment, rejection)
What can we 'notice' that helps support emotional regulation (and is part of self-monitoring)?
thoughts
feelings
behaviors
body sensations
Thinking back- what are 2 ways to improve memory over time?
mental challenges
moving your body
getting quality sleep
eating well
repetition