Memory Decline: When to Seek Psychiatric Help

Q: Memory Decline: When to Seek Psychiatric Help

Hello, netizen： It is true that some psychosomatic disorders may present with such symptoms in their early stages. <br>It is advisable to seek further evaluation at a mental health facility. <br>Dr. <br>Wu Enliang

Memory is becoming increasingly poor?

I have been experiencing poor memory for quite some time, and it seems to have worsened recently.
This week, as school starts, I look at my class schedule but cannot remember whether the teacher for a particular class is male or female.
My mind often confuses one teacher with another, and when people ask me what I had for lunch or dinner yesterday, my mind goes completely blank.
My language skills are also deteriorating; I often struggle to find the words to express what I want to say.
I know the meaning of the word I want to use, but I forget what it is called.
Additionally, I frequently lose track of what I was saying mid-sentence.
I often mix up vocabulary, for example, I meant to say "narration" but ended up saying "plain." There are many instances like this, and I don't understand why this is happening.
It is becoming increasingly severe, and I would like to know if I need to get checked.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/08

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry

Hello, netizen: It is true that some psychosomatic disorders may present with such symptoms in their early stages.
It is advisable to seek further evaluation at a mental health facility.
Dr.
Wu Enliang

Reply Date: 2020/03/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant cognitive difficulties, including memory issues and language problems, which can be quite distressing. Given the symptoms you've described, it is advisable to seek psychiatric or neurological evaluation. Memory decline and language difficulties can stem from various causes, including stress, anxiety, depression, or even neurological conditions.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that memory and cognitive functions can be affected by a range of factors. Stress and anxiety, for instance, can lead to cognitive overload, making it difficult to concentrate and remember information. In your case, the onset of these symptoms coinciding with the start of a new school term may suggest that academic pressures are contributing to your cognitive decline.
Moreover, the specific issues you mentioned, such as forgetting the names of teachers or mixing up words, could indicate a condition known as "word-finding difficulty" or anomia, which is often seen in various forms of cognitive impairment. While it can be a benign issue related to stress or fatigue, it can also be a sign of more serious conditions, such as mild cognitive impairment or even early signs of dementia, especially if these symptoms are progressively worsening.

Given the complexity of cognitive functions, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough assessment. This may include cognitive testing, a review of your medical history, and possibly brain imaging studies to rule out any underlying neurological issues.
In addition to seeking professional help, there are several strategies you can employ to manage your symptoms in the meantime. Keeping a journal can help you track your thoughts and experiences, which may alleviate some of the pressure on your memory. Engaging in regular physical exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and ensuring you get adequate sleep are also vital for cognitive health. Furthermore, practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.

If your healthcare provider determines that your symptoms are related to stress or anxiety, they may recommend therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be effective in addressing cognitive distortions and improving memory function. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage anxiety or depression, which can, in turn, improve cognitive performance.

In summary, your symptoms warrant a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Early intervention can be crucial in addressing cognitive decline and improving your quality of life. Remember, you are not alone in this, and seeking help is a positive step towards understanding and managing your cognitive health.

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