We all have moments when we enter a room with a goal in mind, only to open the door and forget why we were there in the first place. If you have too many moments of memory loss, it could mean that you need to check in with a mental health professional. By taking good care of your mental health, your memory will improve with time.
Treat Depression
While depression can affect us mentally by putting us in a low mood that is hard to get out of, depression can also affect other aspects of our mental well-being. According to a study published by Science Daily titled “Depression Linked to Memory Problems and Brain Aging,” people with symptoms of depression had worse episodic memory.
Study author Adina Zeki Al Hazzouri says that 25% of older adults are experiencing depression, so it is important that the link between depression and memory problems is better understood. If you are struggling with memory problems and depression, it is important that you speak to your doctor to give you the tools you need for a better outlook on life.
Reduce Stress
One of the best things you can do for your memory is to relax more. The world tends always to find new ways to bring stress to our lives. That doesn’t mean that we need to let that stress take hold of everything and that away from the good in our lives.
According to a University of Iowa study titled “Stress Hormone Linked to Short-Term Memory Loss as We Age,” the stress hormone cortisol is linked to short-term memory loss in adults. You can use stress-reducing tools like mindfulness meditation, taking breaks from social media, and physical exercise to let go of your stress and live in the moment.
Socialize With Others
Spending time with your friends can be great for your mental health. A University of Michigan study titled “Ten Minutes of Talking Has a Mental Payoff” said that spending ten minutes with a friend can lead to significant improvements in memory and overall cognitive ability.
Every day, you can try to video chat or call a friend or a relative that will make you feel happy. Inviting a friend to the gym can be a great way to socialize as you both let those feel-good endorphins flow as you exercise together. Mental health check-ins can significantly improve your memory.
Memory problems can be a reflection of poor mental health. When we are depressed or stressed, our memory suffers the consequences. By doing more for your mental health, like reducing stress, treating your depression, and speaking to more of your loved ones, your memory will improve over time. At Alta Loma, we understand the negative consequences of mental illnesses going untreated, and we are here to help you. Located in Georgetown, Texas, we can offer you individualized therapy, medication management, life, and coping skills education, therapeutic recreational activities, and more. Give us a call at (866) 457-3843 for more information.