I think i have problem with forgetfulness

  • Thread starter Ian_Brooks
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In summary, Ian's forgetfulness is due to fatigue and stress from his studies. He should try to get more sleep and take other measures to reduce stress.
  • #1
Ian_Brooks
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Its not really with forgetting names or dates or equations but lately I find when I step outside to check the mail, i end up going outside and forgetting why I came out in the first place; or I stand with a blank face in front of the fridge trying to recall what I wanted to eat.

It was never like this -just recently has been occurring more frequently.
I'm 23 - surely I can't be losing my mind?
 
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  • #2
Wait until you hit

what was I writing about?

Oh, yeah. Your forgetfulness will only improve with age. Wait until you hit 50, or 60, or higher.

You are most likely operating on autopilot. You have certain fixed tasks you do when you get home from work or school. Performing these becomes nearly automatic. You barely have to think to perform these tasks. If you are partially distracted by what transpired at work or in school, you can find yourself staring at the great outdoors or at the fridge and not remember how you got to that state. If you are fully distracted (How can I hit on that cute chick at the office? How can I solve this intractable problem?) you might find yourself holding the mail or eating leftover pizza and not remember having gone to the mailbox or fridge at all.
 
  • #3
I wouldn't worry about it unless it seems to be gradually increasing over many months or a year or two, or something more profound happens like you get lost in an area with which you were once recently fairly familiar. You've probably just got a lot on your mind these days which is being processed in the background without you being consciously aware of it. In fact, that sort of forgetfulness is the classic symptom of a concentrating mind, and thus the reason for the stereotypical absent minded professor. Even so, keep an eye on it and ask others if they notice anything in you.
 
  • #4
Run a mile, eat a fruit or two, some peanuts, and do something different from your daily routine.
 
  • #5
D H said:
Wait until you hit

what was I writing about?

Oh, yeah. Your forgetfulness will only improve with age. Wait until you hit 50, or 60, or higher.

You are most likely operating on autopilot. You have certain fixed tasks you do when you get home from work or school. Performing these becomes nearly automatic. You barely have to think to perform these tasks. If you are partially distracted by what transpired at work or in school, you can find yourself staring at the great outdoors or at the fridge and not remember how you got to that state. If you are fully distracted (How can I hit on that cute chick at the office? How can I solve this intractable problem?) you might find yourself holding the mail or eating leftover pizza and not remember having gone to the mailbox or fridge at all.

This sounds about right to me. I have been having it happen to me since I was a teenager. I spend most of my time on autopilot and thinking of other things and sometimes not really thinking at all. I think it comes from doing repeatative tasks and/or spending lots of time with nothing much to do but occupy your mind with other thoughts. Both situations you may find yourself in if you do a lot of lab work from what I understand.
 
  • #6
Ian_Brooks said:
Its not really with forgetting names or dates or equations but lately I find when I step outside to check the mail, i end up going outside and forgetting why I came out in the first place; or I stand with a blank face in front of the fridge trying to recall what I wanted to eat.

It was never like this -just recently has been occurring more frequently.
I'm 23 - surely I can't be losing my mind?

How much sleep are you getting?
 
  • #7
Just finished my last semester of college, didn't run on much sleep for a month because of my thesis and back-to-back exams.

I'll consider everyone's advice - i should pick up running and different things to do since I'm free till I start work.

Thanks
 
  • #8
I sleep 5h per night on average. A few years ago, I thought I could get away with 2-3h per night. Eventually after 3 months, I had hallucinations, first auditive, then visual as well. Indeed I drastically changed my lifestyle, and one good thing with practicing exercise is that it gets you physically tired enough to sleep ! Anyway, I would really recommend to sleep enough, but I never suffered memory loss, or at least I did not realize it at that time. I guess it really depends on the person. Good luck with the study Ian !
 

1. What are the common causes of forgetfulness?

Forgetfulness can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, lack of sleep, aging, and certain medical conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or depression. It can also be a side effect of medication or a result of a head injury.

2. When should I be concerned about my forgetfulness?

If your forgetfulness is impacting your daily life and activities, such as forgetting important appointments, conversations, or tasks, it may be a cause for concern. Additionally, if you notice a significant decline in your memory or ability to learn new things, it is important to consult a doctor.

3. How can I improve my memory and prevent forgetfulness?

There are several ways to improve memory and prevent forgetfulness, such as staying physically and mentally active, getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and managing stress. It is also important to practice good habits, such as keeping a daily planner, making lists, and using memory aids like sticky notes or phone reminders.

4. Can forgetfulness be reversed?

In some cases, forgetfulness can be reversed by addressing the underlying cause, such as treating a medical condition or adjusting medication. Engaging in activities that stimulate the brain, like puzzles or learning a new skill, can also potentially improve memory function.

5. Is forgetfulness a normal part of aging?

It is common to experience some degree of forgetfulness as we age, but it is not considered a normal part of the aging process. If forgetfulness is significantly impacting daily life, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

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