My Mental Struggles: Seeking Help for Memory and Mood Issues

I don't know what's wrong with me?

Hello doctor, while I am organizing things or handling company affairs, I often forget things that others have reminded me of or taught me after a while.
Keeping a journal or notebook hasn’t helped (sometimes I even forget to bring the notebook).
I have also tried repeating what others say, but this has led to frustration from colleagues and family.
When organizing data, I often make typos or omissions.
This has been an issue for a long time, but I used to dismiss it as carelessness.
After graduating from college, it became severe enough that I was forced to leave a job, which has led to increasing feelings of loss regarding work and interests, as well as headaches, and this has continued to the present day.

Additionally, what I think and what I write can differ, and this also occurs during speaking and other behaviors (though not to a criminal extent).
Recently, a colleague mentioned that my logical thinking seems off, which made me realize something is wrong.
I didn’t often chat with friends and family when I was younger, and most of my interactions occurred when they initiated conversation.

I am unsure what is wrong with me, as I continue to perform poorly at work and make mistakes.
However, I have a vague sense that I might have depression (or bipolar disorder), as negative emotions hit me suddenly, and I cannot control my thoughts from drifting to the negative side.
I feel a sense of despair but do not have suicidal thoughts.
When I am in a bad mood, I tend to accelerate recklessly while riding my motorcycle.

I have noticed my lack of attention to detail and have tried to be more mindful, yet I still struggle.
I feel powerless.
Should I consider undergoing any relevant tests or treatments? Thank you.

Ji Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/02/01

Dr. Qiu Junda reply Psychiatry

Hello.
The text reveals long-term negative emotions, which seem to be affecting your physical and mental health as well as your social and occupational functioning.
I recommend that you consult a mental health professional (what you referred to as a psychologist) as soon as possible.
If that's not convenient, please consider reaching out to Teacher Chang (1980) or the Lifeline (1995) hotline.
They also provide counseling, consultation, referral, and other services to help you address your concerns.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2018/02/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a complex interplay of memory issues, mood disturbances, and possibly anxiety or depressive symptoms. Your concerns about forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and the negative impact these have on your work and personal life are valid and warrant attention.
From what you've described, it seems that your memory lapses and difficulties in processing information have been ongoing and have intensified since you graduated from college. This could be related to several factors, including stress, anxiety, or even underlying mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. The fact that you mentioned feeling a sense of hopelessness and having sudden negative emotions suggests that your mental health may indeed be affected.

Memory issues can be exacerbated by stress and anxiety. When we are under pressure, our cognitive functions, including memory and attention, can suffer. This is often referred to as "cognitive overload," where the brain struggles to process and retain information due to the high levels of stress or emotional turmoil. It’s also important to note that mental health conditions like depression can lead to cognitive impairment, which may manifest as forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, and a general decline in cognitive performance.

You mentioned that you have tried journaling and taking notes, but these strategies have not been effective for you. This could indicate that the underlying issue is more complex than simple forgetfulness. It might be beneficial to explore other coping strategies or therapeutic approaches. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one effective method for addressing negative thought patterns and improving cognitive function. A mental health professional can help you identify specific cognitive distortions and work with you to develop healthier thought patterns.

Additionally, you expressed concerns about your mood, including feelings of hopelessness and sudden negative emotions. These symptoms can be indicative of depression or anxiety disorders. It’s crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a mental health professional who can assess your symptoms and provide a proper diagnosis. They may recommend psychological testing to better understand your cognitive and emotional functioning.

In terms of treatment, medication may also be an option worth discussing with a psychiatrist. Antidepressants or mood stabilizers can help regulate mood and improve cognitive function in individuals with mood disorders. However, medication should always be considered in conjunction with therapy for the best outcomes.

Furthermore, lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in managing your symptoms. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are all crucial for maintaining mental health. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or yoga, can also help reduce anxiety and improve focus.

It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this struggle, and seeking help is a vital step toward recovery. The feelings of helplessness and frustration you are experiencing are common among individuals dealing with similar issues. By reaching out for professional support, you can gain the tools and strategies needed to manage your symptoms effectively and improve your overall quality of life.

In summary, I strongly encourage you to seek a consultation with a mental health professional who can provide a thorough assessment and develop a tailored treatment plan for you. Addressing both your cognitive and emotional challenges will be essential in helping you regain control over your life and work. Remember, taking the first step to seek help is a sign of strength, and there is hope for improvement.

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