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What Lighting Is Best for Concentration? 

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

When it comes to productivity, the best lighting concentration isn’t just about brightness; it’s about balance. The right lighting setup can help reduce fatigue, sharpen mental clarity, and maintain attention throughout the day. 

Why Natural and Balanced Lighting Matters 

The gold standard? Natural light focus. Daylight regulates your circadian rhythm and boosts serotonin, which improves alertness and mood. If natural light isn’t an option, mimicking its effects with soft, cool-toned lighting is key. Poor lighting, either too dim or overly harsh, can lead to eye strain, headaches, and mental fatigue. 

Here’s how to create optimal workspace lighting for better concentration: 

Use daylight when possible:  

Set up your desk near a window to maximise exposure to natural light. 

Avoid overhead glare:  

Harsh ceiling lights can cause squinting and discomfort, opt for adjustable desk lamps instead. 

Cool-toned LEDs:  

Lights in the 4000–5000K range mimic daylight and help keep your mind alert during tasks. 

Dimmers and timers:  

These help regulate lighting throughout the day, reducing strain during long work sessions. 

Warm lighting in the evening:  

Helps wind down the brain and prepare for restful sleep, preserving next-day focus. 

Good lighting supports not just your eyes, but your brain’s ability to stay sharp. A small change to your setup can have a surprisingly big impact. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD difficulty concentrating.  

Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.