Have you ever picked up a book, read the same sentence three times, and still couldn’t tell what it said? Or maybe you want to read, but every time you sit down, your mind wanders, your phone pings, or you just feel too tired to focus. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people today are stuck in what’s called a reading slump—a time when reading feels more like a chore than a pleasure.

This struggle isn’t about being lazy or uninterested. It’s often the result of living in a world that demands our attention 24/7. With screen time at an all-time high and endless information overload from social media, news, emails, and texts, our attention spans are shorter than ever. Add in the constant distraction of devices, the pressure to stay “caught up,” and the emotional weight of stress, fatigue, or anxiety, and it’s no surprise that reading gets pushed aside.

Even if you love books, your brain might be too tired to dive into one. This kind of digital fatigue—mental exhaustion from too much screen exposure—can make it hard to concentrate, let alone enjoy a good story. And when your mental health is already strained, finding the energy or focus to read can feel impossible.

But here’s the good news: You can find your way back to reading. It might take a few simple shifts, some new tools, or just the right kind of book—but it’s totally doable. In this post, we’ll explore practical ways to reconnect with books and rediscover the joy of reading.

Why does it feel harder to read sometimes?

Digital fatigue, constant distraction, reduced attention span, and information overload can overwhelm the brain and affect focus.

We’re surrounded by digital tools—phones, laptops, tablets, apps, and notifications—that are constantly fighting for our attention span. From the moment we wake up, we’re checking messages, scrolling through feeds, and switching between tabs. This kind of human multitasking might seem normal, but it actually wears down our brain’s ability to focus. It increases what experts call cognitive load, which just means your brain is juggling too much at once.

Instead of having quiet time to enjoy a story, our minds are stuck reacting to texts, emails, and alerts. The internet gives us access to everything—news, videos, memes, messages—all at lightning speed. But this nonstop flow of content leads to information overload, where it becomes harder to concentrate, process, or even enjoy what we’re reading.

Plus, all that screen time comes with side effects. Long hours staring at screens can cause digital fatigue—that tired, drained feeling that hits after a day of scrolling, clicking, or working online. And while switching between apps or jumping from one thing to the next might feel productive, it actually chips away at your cognition—your brain’s ability to think deeply and stay focused.

Even software designed to help us be more efficient can backfire if it keeps us in a cycle of distraction. Add in flashy ads, autoplay videos, and constant updates, and suddenly reading a book feels like a slow, impossible task.

So if you’re stuck in a reading slump, know this: your brain isn’t broken—it’s just dealing with mental blocks while trying to survive in a world full of digital noise.

What are mental blocks?

Mental blocks are invisible walls in your mind that stop you from doing something, even when you want to. They can show up as a blank mind, a sudden wave of tiredness, or the urge to do anything but the thing you planned. When it comes to reading, mental blocks can make it feel like your brain just shuts down the second you open a book.

These blocks aren’t about being lazy. They’re about how your brain is reacting to stress, fatigue, or too much stimulus from your surroundings. In psychology, this is known as cognitive overload—when your brain is trying to handle too much at once. Mental blocks are a signal that your brain needs a break or a new approach.

Can mental roadblocks cause trouble reading?

Absolutely. One of the biggest reasons reading feels difficult is because of attention issues. Many of us are so used to fast-moving content that sitting down with a book can feel like hitting the brakes. Our attention spans have been worn down by distraction, endless digital scrolling, and a constant stream of notifications.

This is especially true if you struggle with something like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But even people without ADHD experience what’s called “attention span erosion.” This means it’s getting harder for everyone to focus for long periods, especially when there’s always something else calling for our attention.

Another problem is decision fatigue. With so many genres, authors, and book recommendations out there, choosing what to read can feel overwhelming. Should you go for fantasy or romance? A classic novel or a quick thriller? With too many choices, some people freeze and end up not reading at all.

Then there’s the emotional side. Feelings like anxiety, irritability, fear, or low mood can make reading seem impossible. Even if you start a book, your brain might be too full of worries to follow the story. This mental state isn’t just about mood—it’s also about your mental health, and how stress can interfere with cognition, memory, and motivation.

And let’s not forget the fear of missing out (FOMO). Sometimes, it’s not just about reading a book—it’s about the fear that you’re “wasting time” when you could be checking updates, watching something online, or staying in the loop.

The bottom line? Mental blocks are real, and they affect how we read, think, and feel. But with the right tools and mindset, you can learn to move past them.

How does digital technology affect reading?

Digital technology is part of almost everything we do—from work and school to entertainment and communication. But while it’s made life more convenient, it’s also made reading harder for many people.

Think about how much time you spend in front of a computer or phone each day. Between online classes, remote work, emails, and group chats, your brain is constantly taking in huge amounts of information. This non-stop input can leave you feeling drained, even if you didn’t do anything physical. It’s a mental tiredness caused by too much screen exposure and too many digital tasks.

Then there’s Zoom fatigue. Sitting in virtual meetings for hours can cause your brain to work overtime. It has to process not only what people are saying, but also their facial expressions, background noises, and glitchy internet. All this effort adds up, making it harder to focus later on, even on something as simple as reading a book.

Spending so much time online also changes how we think. The constant flow of data, pop-ups, alerts, and videos from the internet trains our minds to jump quickly from one thing to the next. This makes it harder to slow down and enjoy a story. In fact, according to a podcast from the American Psychological Association in 2023, “excessive screen use is linked to reduced attention and lower reading comprehension scores among teens and young adults.” In short, the more time we spend online, the harder it becomes to concentrate on reading.

Screen time and eye strain

There’s also a physical side to this problem: eye strain. When you stare at a screen for hours—whether it’s for school, work, or scrolling—your eyes don’t get the breaks they need. That’s why so many people feel dry, tired, or even get headaches by the end of the day.

Screens shine light directly into your eyes, and the small text or fast-moving images make your eyes work extra hard. After all that effort, reading—even from a digital device like an e-reader—can feel like too much. It’s no surprise that many people avoid books entirely when their eyes already feel sore and overworked.

That’s where a digital detox can help. Taking breaks from screens, going outside, or even just resting your eyes for a few minutes every hour can reduce fatigue and make reading feel enjoyable again. It’s all about giving your brain and your body the rest they deserve so that reading becomes a pleasure, not a pain.

Understanding how digital tools, the internet, and non-stop screen time affect our cognition gives us the power to take control. Reading doesn’t have to disappear from our lives—it just needs space to come back.

How to build your reading confidence again

If you’ve been out of the reading game for a while, jumping into a huge novel can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to read a 600-page story to call yourself a reader. It’s okay to start small.

Try picking up a novella, a piece of poetry, or a graphic novel. These shorter forms of fiction still tell powerful stories—but in a way that’s easier to finish and enjoy. They’re perfect for building momentum and boosting your reading confidence one page at a time.

Small wins matter. Finishing just one short story or poem can make you feel proud and excited to continue. You’ll slowly rebuild your reading muscle without pressure or guilt.

You can also explore different genres to find what speaks to you. Maybe you’ve never tried a romance novel, or you didn’t realize how fun a thriller or fantasy story could be. Don’t be afraid to mix things up. Dive into historical fiction, cozy mysteries, or literary fiction that makes you think deeply. Every reader has a favorite style—they just have to find it.

If a book doesn’t grab you right away, that’s okay, too. Put it down and try something else. The goal isn’t to finish every book—it’s to enjoy the experience and grow your vocabulary, imagination, and confidence along the way.

Try audiobooks, podcasts, and other book alternatives

Not everyone likes sitting down with a book, and that’s totally okay. Listening is another great way to enjoy stories and rebuild your love for reading. Audiobooks let you enjoy a great book while you’re driving, walking, cleaning, or even relaxing. They’re a fantastic tool for busy people or anyone who finds it hard to focus on a page.

You can find audiobooks on platforms like Audible, Libby (from your local library), or Spotify. And guess what? Listening to books still supports literacy and cognition. Your brain is still working hard, just in a different way. It’s learning new words, imagining scenes, and connecting ideas, even without reading printed text.

Not sure where to begin? Start with a genre you love. Whether it’s thrillers, romance novels, or historical fiction, there’s an audiobook out there for you.

It’s also helpful to know the difference between formats:

• Audiobooks are full readings of books, just in audio form. 
• Podcasts are usually more conversational or focused on real-life stories, interviews, or topics. 
• Ebooks are digital versions of printed books that you can read on your phone, tablet, or e-reader. 

Each format offers a unique content experience. You can switch between them depending on your mood, schedule, or how you like to learn. The key is finding what works for you and allowing that to guide your understanding and connection with stories again.

Reading isn’t just about turning pages—it’s about finding joy in the story. And there are so many ways to get there.

How to develop a reading habit

If you want to get back into reading, building a solid habit is the best place to start. It’s just like learning any other skill—you don’t need to go big right away. You just need to show up for it a little each day.

Start with a simple goal: read for 10 minutes in the morning or before bed. Try turning your reading time into a ritual—maybe with a cozy blanket, a warm drink, and no phones allowed. Creating a calm, screen-free environment makes it easier to focus and enjoy the moment.

Some people like bedtime reading to help them wind down, while others prefer “morning pages” to get their mind moving for the day. You can also carve out screen-free time during lunch breaks or right after school or work. Making reading a part of your everyday lifestyle helps you stay consistent and keeps your mood balanced.

There are also fun tools to help you stay on track. You can use a reading log to track your progress, or download apps with gamification features (like earning badges for finishing a chapter). 

You don’t have to read alone

Reading might feel like a solo activity, but it doesn’t have to be. Sometimes, the best way to stay motivated is to share the experience with others. Joining a book club, whether online or in person, gives you a reason to keep turning pages—and people to talk to about what you’re reading.

You can also chat about books with your family, coworkers, or friends. Start a casual conversation at school or in the workplace. You never know who might be reading the same thing or looking for a new recommendation.

Want to take it a step further? Create a reading newsletter or start a mailing list where you share your thoughts, favorite quotes, or reading tips. It doesn’t have to be formal—just a way to connect with others through stories. If you like writing, this is a great way to combine your love for books with your creative side.

Reading can be a powerful part of any culture, from your home to your classroom to your workplace. It brings people together, sparks ideas, and encourages leadership and learning—whether you’re a student, a parent, a teen, or a team leader in the workforce.

How to manage digital overload and distraction

In a world full of pings, pop-ups, and endless scrolling, it’s no surprise that distraction has become a daily struggle. Our phones and laptops are constantly calling for our attention, and it feels like we’re always switching from one thing to the next. That’s the downside of living in an attention economy—your focus is valuable, and everything online is competing to grab it.

But your mind needs quiet time, too. Taking care of your health—both physical and mental—can help you take back control. Simple things like meditation, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep all play a big role in improving your attention and boosting your mood. Even just 5–10 minutes of deep breathing or stretching can make your brain feel more clear and less foggy.

If you’ve been feeling drained or unable to focus, you might be dealing with digital overload. That’s when your brain has had too much screen time and starts to shut down. It can lead to things like insomnia, low energy, or trouble staying focused—even on things you care about.

That’s where a digital detox comes in. You don’t have to throw your phone away, but you can make small changes that create space for your brain to breathe:

• Turn off notifications when you’re reading or relaxing. 
• Try time-blocking, where you set aside specific parts of the day for reading or offline activities. 
• Use a different device, like an e-reader or paperback book, instead of reading on your phone. 

These habits aren’t just good for focus—they’re part of smart stress management. By setting boundaries with your technology, you’re giving your brain a chance to rest, recharge, and return to reading with a clearer head.

Creating even a little space away from digital noise can make a big difference. You’ll feel more present, less stressed, and more ready to enjoy your next great book.

How do anxiety and depression affect reading?

Sometimes, the hardest part of reading isn’t the book—it’s what’s going on inside your mind. If you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or just feeling emotionally drained, it can be tough to focus or enjoy a story. That’s because your mental health affects everything, including your ability to read and stay interested.

When your brain is overwhelmed by stress, fear, or sadness, it becomes harder to sit still, pay attention, or process words. This isn’t about being lazy—it’s a real psychological response. Many adults and teens experience this phenomenon, especially during hard times or after emotional burnout. Even things like anger or feeling hopeless can block your motivation to read.

These struggles are connected to your emotional intelligence—how well you understand and manage your feelings. But the truth is, it’s okay to not be okay. You’re not alone, and you’re not broken.

Reading can feel difficult when you’re carrying heavy emotions, but there’s help. Whether it’s through therapy, support from loved ones, or brain training techniques to improve focus, there are ways forward. With time and understanding, reading can once again be something that brings comfort, not pressure.

What to do when struggling with mental health?

It’s okay to admit when you’re not feeling like yourself. Sometimes, the stress of life, school, work, or just trying to keep up with everything digital can take a real toll on your mental health. If reading feels impossible, your energy is low, or your emotions are all over the place, your mind might be asking for help.

Here are some signs you might be struggling:

• Constant fatigue or low energy 
• Trouble focusing or feeling mentally foggy 
• Mood swings, irritability, or anger management issues 
• Sleep problems like insomnia 
• Feeling overwhelmed by screens (digital fatigue) 
• Avoiding things you used to enjoy, like reading 
• Feeling anxious, burned out, or just “off” 
• Struggling to concentrate at work or school 
• Feeling disconnected in your home or work environment 

If any of this sounds familiar, Pacific Health Group is here for you. We offer individual therapy, family therapy, couples counseling, and flexible telehealth options tailored to your lifestyle and needs.

Don’t wait to feel better. You deserve support that fits your life, your pace, and your goals. Call us at 1-877-811-1217 or visit www.mypacifichealth.com for more information.