How Stress Affects Your Memory

Brain fog is a common complaint that I see in my practice. It can involve a number of symptoms like feeling scattered and having a hard time focusing but one of the most frustrating symptoms is memory issues. By memory issues, I’m not referring to the more major lapses in memory that are observed in dementia. More severe memory loss needs to be thoroughly evaluated. Many of my patients have more subtle memory issues that nonetheless have a meaningful impact on their lives.

A number of factors can negatively affect memory. Stress is an important one to consider. Research in the field of neuroscience has found that chronic stress can change the structure of the brain. It can cause damage to nerve cells and reduced communication channels between nerve cells. These changes occur in parts of the brain that are important for memory such as the hippocampus.

Part of the blame may be due to one of the “stress hormones” called cortisol. Cortisol is released in response to stressful triggers to help the body cope until the trigger is removed. It is a normal, healthy response when cortisol is elevated appropriately. Things go haywire when people are exposed to constant stress that leads to long term elevation of cortisol. Elevated cortisol may be one of factors that changes the brain in a way that interferes with memory. Chronic stress can be very overstimulating to the brain which can make it harder for the brain to form memories.

There are a number of ways that I help my patients deal with memory issues related to stress. My treatment plans typically include devising a good nutrition plan, exercise plan, daily healthy habits and natural remedies to help the body cope with stress better and improve memory. If you need support with brain fog, memory issues and stress management, book a free 15 minute phone consultation to learn more about how I can help you.