Is Stress HarmingYour Memory? How to Cope With Daily Triggers
for example, can be difficult. You have to figure out why they’re causing you stress and how the situation can be remedied. Dealing with a work-related confrontation can be hard, but having that difficult conversation and resolving the problem can ultimately lead to less long-term stress and improve your mental health. Another thing you can do to reduce stress is avoid multitasking. Taking on multiple projects or doing too much in too little time can leave you feeling overworked. Plus, studies have found that multitasking is not effective. You cannot deliver the same results when your attention is scattered as you can when you are focused on one thing. To make matters worse, multitasking takes a major toll on memory and cognition, according to a study from Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. If stress is impairing your memory, judgment, or cognition, take the above steps to reduce it. If you find your memory and cognition aren’t improving, consider speaking with a mental health professional to discuss your best next steps. Mental health and stress management are important, and the more we do to improve these areas of our lives, the healthier and happier we will be.
Stress can cause more than just a bad mood and low energy. Over time, mental exhaustion from stress can lead to forgetfulness and reduced cognition. This can hamper your ability to do your job and enjoy life. Though stress is unavoidable, there are steps you can take to mitigate some of the negative effects of mental exhaustion, including forgetfulness.
First, consider the source of your stress. These days, a common stressor is social media. If your feeds are full of bad news and negativity, shut them down. Many researchers suggest that spending less time on the internet leads to better health. Several studies have found that constant internet use, including time spent on social media, is negatively impacting our memories. Research from Harvard, Oxford, King’s College London, and Western Sydney University all confirm this: Too much internet use is a bad thing.
Of course, it can be easier to delete a social media app than it is to eliminate other types of stressors. Coping with a stressful coworker,
Patient
of the Month
REINA OSTAR NATIONAL KIDNEY FOUNDATION
“I have chosen this charity in support of my best friend, Leah. At just 30 years old, she is a two-time cancer survivor with chronic kidney disease due to effects of her cancer treatments. Currently, Leah is undergoing dialysis while she awaits her kidney transplant. Through all of her battles, she has remained one of the strongest, compassionate, and loving individuals I have ever met. We are both very grateful for your donation to help all the true warriors through their battle with kidney disease.” –Reina
Reina’s dedication and hard work to succeed in PT and return back to her best self makes her our choice for Patient of the Month. Despite challenges she has faced, she continues to work hard every day and perform her home exercises. Her upbeat and positive personality makes her a pleasure to work with. Keep up the great work, Reina!
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