Memory Techniques and Their Impact on Mental Health

Q: Memory Techniques and Their Impact on Mental Health

Hello： Your question is indeed difficult to answer, as there are still many uncertainties that need clarification. <br>First, you mentioned how to help with memory issues, and you concluded that handwriting is the solution. <br>At the same time, to remind yourself of the phrase "

Could you please provide more context or details about what you are asking?

Doctor, may I ask: (If someone wants to come up with something to remember and control their thoughts) what does this mean? For example, when I was studying in the past, I would use writing as a way to memorize things.
This method was something I did unconsciously, without even realizing it.
One day, while watching TV, I heard that when trying to memorize, using your eyes to see and your hands to write is more effective for memory retention, and the answer was that writing by hand is better.
After that, I realized that I had been using handwriting to memorize things.
However, I became worried that I would forget this method, so I immediately wanted to remember the phrase "write by hand" to ensure I would never forget it.
From then on, whenever I thought of those three words, I would know what to do.
But then a nightmare began; from that moment on, I started feeling dizzy, everything I did felt off, I began to stutter when speaking, and I experienced gastrointestinal issues, feeling like there was always gas in my stomach that I couldn't release.
My bowel movements became irregular compared to before.
I truly don't understand why I've become like this.
Doctor, could you please help me?

Xianxian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/19

Dr. Lin Yanhong reply Psychiatry

Hello: Your question is indeed difficult to answer, as there are still many uncertainties that need clarification.
First, you mentioned how to help with memory issues, and you concluded that handwriting is the solution.
At the same time, to remind yourself of the phrase "handwriting," you think about it constantly.
However, problems arose from that moment on; you began to feel dizzy, everything you did felt off, your speech became slightly stuttered, and you started experiencing gastrointestinal issues, feeling like there was always gas in your stomach that you couldn't release, and your bowel movements became irregular compared to before.
Did these issues really arise only after you became preoccupied with "handwriting"? Does the phrase "handwriting" involuntarily and repeatedly appear in your mind, even when you try not to think about it? If so, you may be experiencing obsessive thinking, which is classified as an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety can also lead to various physical discomforts, with the most common being heart and gastrointestinal problems.
I recommend that you consult a psychiatrist for treatment, as medication may help improve your condition.
Dr.
Lin

Reply Date: 2003/07/19

More Info

Memory techniques can significantly impact mental health, particularly in individuals experiencing anxiety or cognitive challenges. Your experience with using writing as a memory aid is a well-documented strategy known as "active recall," which involves engaging multiple senses to enhance memory retention. This method is effective because it requires more cognitive effort than passive reading, leading to better encoding of information in the brain.

When you mentioned that you felt dizzy and experienced gastrointestinal issues after trying to remember the phrase "use handwriting," it suggests that your anxiety may have been exacerbated by the pressure you placed on yourself to remember. Anxiety can manifest in various physical symptoms, including dizziness, gastrointestinal discomfort, and even speech difficulties, such as stuttering. This is often due to the body's fight-or-flight response, which can be triggered by stress or anxiety about performance, leading to a cycle of worry that further impairs cognitive function.

The relationship between anxiety and memory is complex. Anxiety can impair working memory, which is the type of memory used for temporarily holding and manipulating information. When you're anxious, your brain may struggle to focus on the task at hand, making it harder to recall information or complete tasks. This can create a feedback loop where anxiety leads to poor memory performance, which in turn increases anxiety.

To improve your memory and manage anxiety, consider the following strategies:
1. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety levels, allowing your brain to function more effectively.

2. Use Memory Techniques: Continue using writing as a memory aid. You might also explore other techniques such as mnemonic devices, visualization, and chunking information into smaller, manageable parts.

3. Establish a Routine: A consistent daily routine can help reduce anxiety by providing structure. Ensure you allocate time for studying, relaxation, and physical activity.

4. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function and reduce anxiety. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.

5. Prioritize Sleep: Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help your brain recover and function optimally.

6. Seek Professional Help: If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting a mental health professional. They can provide tailored strategies and, if necessary, discuss treatment options such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication.

7. Limit Caffeine and Sugar: High levels of caffeine and sugar can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Consider moderating your intake to see if it helps improve your overall well-being.

In conclusion, while memory techniques like writing can be beneficial, it's essential to manage anxiety levels to optimize cognitive function. By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your memory while also addressing the underlying anxiety that may be impacting your mental health. Remember, it's okay to seek help and take small steps toward improvement.

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