Depression Memory Loss

One of the major signs of depression is memory loss. It can often go unrecognized as being depressed because it may be confused with just simple forgetfulness. If the person is elderly, people looking on may see it as just a part of the aging process. While this may be true in some respects, it is not always the case. Memory loss can indicate that a person is depressed.

A person suffering from depression may have problems making plans or organizing their thoughts. During episodes of melancholy, the person may only remember negative memories and not the happy ones. Lack of attention and concentration, which are factors of depression, can hinder a person's ability to establish long-term memories.

Reduced levels of serotonin are found in people suffering from depression. Serotonin is also a participant in regulating arousal, or being able to have an interest in enjoyable activities. New depression medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, and monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, increase arousal by raising the amount of available serotonin in the brain.

In order to combat depression, you must first detect the symptoms. Secondly, contact your mental health care provider for help in getting a proper diagnosis and treatment. While treatment regimens differ for everyone, your doctor will prescribe medications according to your needs and make the necessary adjustment to dosages that will work for you.

Are you depressed?

Major depression is a serious mood disorder, marked by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness. Other symptoms of depression include:

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.


• A loss of interest in people and/or activities previously enjoyed.


• A change in eating or sleeping habits.


• Fatigue


• Restlessness or irritability.


• Thoughts of death, suicide, or harming yourself

What are your risks for depression?

• Gender - More women than men are diagnosed with this disorder


• Age - The elderly are more prone to being depressed


• Alcohol or drug abuse


• Heredity or family history

It is important to remember that just because you may have a family member who is depressed, this does not mean that you will get it also. It just means that your risk is higher than for someone who does not have a family history of it. However, depression has been found in people who have no family history of it at all.

Treatment:

Complaints of memory loss in people with depression can be greatly reduced with appropriate treatment and therapy. There are many avenues that can be taken to help lift the down moods and memory loss associated with this disorder.

Antidepressant medications, as well as group therapy are major treatment modalities. Proper diet, exercise, and rest have also been proven to help the person with a depressive disorder.

Getting educated on the signs and symptoms of depression and memory loss will help you to recognize this disorder in yourself or someone you know. If you are showing signs, it is important to get the help of a health care professional as soon as possible to prevent complications.

by Barb Hicks