Memory loss due to stress, what does it consist of?

Memory loss due to stress is much more common than we think. Now, this cognitive failure is often experienced with great worry and anxiety: we forget appointments, conversations, names and even that important thing that we had to buy. It is difficult for us to retain information and even recover already consolidated memories.

It is often said that memory is a treasure that we must guard with special care and delicacy; However, something that we have all undoubtedly experienced at some point is that just when we need it most, it fails us. What’s more, when we suffer these momentary and even disconcerting failures, we often experience it with a certain fear: could this be the first sign of dementia?

It is not advisable to rush. Before thinking about cognitive deterioration, let’s take into account one factor, the one that explains about 80% of small daily memory errors: stress. However, far from breathing a sigh of relief by ruling out early dementia, it is important to consider a fact: Chronic stress, as well as anxiety disorders sustained over time, alters the functioning of the brain and even several of its structures..

The brain is very vulnerable to our lifestyle and, specifically, the way we manage our daily worries and tensions.

Memory loss due to stress, why does it occur?

Sometimes we do it, we leave work and come home on “autopilot.” As we cross the threshold of our home, we put our hands on our heads in utter anger and astonishment: how could we have forgotten to pick up our son from his English class? We run down and just when we get to the car, we realize that we don’t have the keys.

The exhausting cycle that both stress and anxiety lead us into is immense. Surreal situations like this are common, as is the feeling that we are losing control of our lives. After all, Few situations can be more distressing than forgetting data that is relevant on a daily basis.which are decisive for feeling competent and responsible in every area of ​​our daily lives.

Cortisol

If we now ask ourselves what is behind memory loss due to stress, we must name an old acquaintance, the hormone cortisol.

This glucocorticoid produced by the adrenal gland is released in response to stress. Now, if the peak of cortisol increases at a given moment beyond its usual levels, it is not a problem; in fact, a small increase in this hormone at a specific moment improves the formation of new memories.

The worrying thing is that the release of glucocorticoids occurs constantly and over weeks or months. It will be then when we will have difficulties remembering data and recovering existing data.

Let’s see what impact this can have on our brain.

Effects of cortisol on our brain

Excess cortisol at the brain level acts as a toxin. Thus, in a study carried out at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in San Antonio, it is noted that Adults between 40 and 50 years old, with higher cortisol levels, had a smaller brain volume.The hippocampus, associated with memory and our emotions, also loses volume.Memory loss due to stress is also associated with the fact that cortisol hinders proper blood circulation to the brain. Therefore, fewer nutrients and less oxygen reach us. All of this causes us to have a greater risk of suffering strokes, strokes, etc. It is a fact that we must consider.If the release of cortisol is constant we will perceive another effect: we will secrete fewer endorphins. This translates into greater discomfort, a clear inability to enjoy those activities that were previously pleasant to us. Cortisol affects our sleep-wake cycles. We suffer periods of insomnia or nights of constant awakenings.

Stress releases the glucocorticoid hormone, which alters the function of our cells and also causes the appearance of adrenaline.

What can we do to reduce memory loss associated with stress?

If we notice that in recent weeks or months we are experiencing unusual memory loss, it is best to consult with our doctors. Sometimes, These failures can be associated with poor nutrition (deficiency of vitamin B12 or vitamin D).

Likewise, disorders such as hypothyroidism can also determine these cognitive alterations. Therefore, and to avoid worries, it is advisable to speak with specialized professionals.

Once organic problems have been ruled out, we will approach the problem in the most appropriate way: managing stress. Let’s look at some keys.

Strategies to manage stress

Identify your stressors: Become aware of how your body reacts: muscle tension, stiff neck, shoulders, jaw, palpitations…Stress cannot be managed by avoiding those sources that take away our calm. It is managed by facing these threatening stimuli face to face, establishing priorities, deciding, taking control over one’s own reality. We will use appropriate breathing techniques.Reinterpret your reality: Become aware of what is truly important in your life, slow down, appreciate the present in a more relaxed way. Practices such as mindfulness They are suitable for managing stress. Thus, studies such as the one carried out by Dr. Philippe R. Goldin, from the University of California, show us its effectiveness.Eat healthy: fresh fruits and vegetables, plenty of water, oats, valerian infusions, chamomiles… Magnesium-based supplements are excellent for protecting our brain from the effects of stress.Go for a walk every day for half an hour. You will clear your mind, gain new perspectives and improve your blood circulation so that a greater supply of oxygen and nutrients reaches the brain.

To conclude, memory loss due to stress can completely alter our lives. If we do not manage the root problem, this stress will further intensify the problem until it reaches more areas: our mood will worsen, our motivation will decline… Let us learn, therefore, to slow down, to not want to go faster than life.. Our health is the most important thing.