Is Memory Loss a Sign of Depression?

Memory loss is most commonly associated with aging. The older we get, the harder it can be at times to remember things without help. However, older people aren’t the only ones who suffer from memory loss issues. Memory loss can affect all types of people from different walks of life. Unfortunately, one of the causes of memory loss and dementia is depression. People who suffer from depression tend to also have issues when it comes to memory retention.

In this blog, we will take a look at memory loss as it pertains to mental health issues as well as dive deeper into the question of “is memory loss a sign of depression?”

What Is the Connection Between Memory Loss and Depression?

Depression has often been linked to memory problems, such as forgetfulness or confusion. It can also make it difficult to do basic things such as focusing on work or other tasks, making decisions, or thinking clearly. Depression tends to only impact short-term memory. Other types of memory such as long-term memory and procedural memory, which controls motor skills are not affected by depression and anxiety.

In addition to memory problems, other signs of depression include:

Loss of appetite
A drastic change in weight
Not sleeping enough
Sleeping too much
Suicidal thoughts or actions
feeling sad, anxious, numb, or hopeless
Feeling restless or irritable
Feeling powerless or worthless
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies
having little energy and feeling fatigued
having physical problems, such as headaches, stomachaches, and back pain

How Does Depression Affect Different Types of Memory?

Over the years, scientists and researchers have identified a correlation between depression and different types of memory loss. Additionally, for those who are taking medication for their depression, memory loss can be one of the side-effects associated with taking the medication.

Short Term Memory Loss

One of the most commonly related memory issues, as it pertains to depression, is short-term memory loss. Studies have shown that the worse the depression is, the more severe the short-term memory loss is. The reason for this is because depression affects a person’s ability to focus and pay attention. When someone is having trouble focusing or paying attention, they might miss something that they need to retain in their short-term memory and recall later on.

Additionally, those struggling with short-term memory loss as a result of depression tend to struggle with executive function. Executive function is responsible for skills that help people focus on tasks, pay attention, and self-monitor their behavior. Struggling to be able to do these things can result in memory loss as well.

Dementia

Not only can depression cause memory loss, but in the long run, it can also lead to dementia in some cases in older people. Studies have shown that the cognitive impairments that some older people experience with depression can be an early warning sign of dementia.

There is also a correlation with decreased levels of gray matter. People that suffer from depression tend to have a lower volume of grey matter, particularly in the areas of the brain that are associated with emotion and working memory. One of the common things found in people suffering from dementia is also a decrease in the levels of grey matter. This would suggest a connection between depression and dementia.

Antidepressants

For those who have a mental disorder such as depression, antidepressants are commonly used to help treat the associated symptoms. However, little do people know, these medications could possibly be harming their short-term and long-term memory.

A type of antidepressant called Tricyclic antidepressants has been shown to increase the risk of memory loss in some people. Additionally, those who are taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have also experienced an increase in memory loss during the first 8 weeks of treatment.

Memory loss doesn’t only impact those that are older. Those who suffer from depression in their teens and early twenties are more likely to have problems when it comes to memory retention. Additionally, those suffering from depression at a young age are more likely to suffer from memory loss and even dementia when they reach their later years.

Memory Loss and Depression

While many people seek medical or psychological treatment for their depression and subsequent memory loss not everyone goes that route. Many people turn to unhealthy alternatives to address their issues. In many cases, the person suffering is either too embarrassed to address the issue or thinks that he or she can just fix it.

Therapy

Since memory loss can be a direct result of your depression, knowing the warning signs can help you or a loved one recognize when it is time to get professional help. It is important to get help for depression and any signs or symptoms of memory loss as early as possible. Early intervention has been proven to save lives, as catching things early can reduce the development of disease and level of severity.

One of the most common and successful evidence-based treatment methods for depression-related memory loss with various types of therapy and counseling. Whether you know what the issue is that is causing your depression or not, there is a reason you are depressed and it is important to figure out what it is.

Therapy is a great way to dig down inside yourself and not only identify what is causing the depression but also figure out ways to fix it. Doing so in therapy allows you to address those issues in a safe space with a trained professional who can work with you through your issues and address your depression head-on.

Medications

Many different types of medications and supplements are available that specifically address both depression and memory loss. This could be an effective solution. It is important to speak with your doctor or therapist before taking any supplement or medication to address depression and memory loss.

Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to medications and therapy, there are many things you can do in your day-to-day life to help strengthen your memory. Some of those things include:

Regular exercise and recreational activity
Spending time with those you trust
Avoiding isolation
Avoiding situations that might exacerbate your depression
Setting realistic goals for yourself
Not expecting immediate results when it comes to your mood improving
Postpone important decisions, such as getting married or divorced, or changing jobs until you feel better
Discuss decisions with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation
Continuing to educate yourself about depression