Forgetting to Remember

Mysteries of Memory

Have you been feeling forgetful? Has it felt like too many things have been "slipping through the cracks?" Are you having difficulty with memories and/or remembering things? It's likely crossed your mind that such occurrences are the result of getting older, but chances are you are just on a memory overload and not a memory meltdown.

Many factors can come into to play that can cause you to be concerned about being so forgetful. According to an article, entitled "Human Memory", published by The College of William and Mary (WM), the brain records what is going on around you in code. This coded information is moved to a storage area, which sorts what information is remembered and kept, and which information is discarded. The brain can then retrieve or decode the stored information. (WM, 2004).

Several factors play roles in memory:

Mental Health Factors:

Stress, anxiety, and depression can play a large role in hampering your memory. "Anxiety can be paired with certain events, creating a very strong memory file that contains both the anxious event and the physical reaction (of stress) as well" (Carver, 2004). Depression can also impede memory by pulling negative memories. "The depressive state often increases complaints about poor everyday memory and concentration" (Kalska, 2001). If you suspect that depression and/or anxiety are a concern, consult with your doctor or mental health professional to help assess the situation.

Health Factors:

Lack of sleep, lack of proper nutrients, or a lack of exercise, can cause your brain not to function at a level needed for peek performance. This may be why you are feeling that you are running slower or feel unproductive with your time.

The "Clutter" factor:

Too much information can cause the "clutter factor". Basically, too much information can cause an overload, which can cause you to feel indecisive or sluggish, or to freeze when you need to make decisions. Are you trying to do too much? Have you taken on too much responsibility?

These are all factors that can cause you to lose concentration. Perhaps a greater concern is that it may be a combination of these factors. Identifying that there may be reasons or "causes" for your memory losses may be comforting; perhaps your memory isn't permanently damaged. Once identified, try listing out the areas of your life that can be altered in ways that might lesson your 'overload'

1. Identify your stressors.
2. Reorganize your information
3. Delegate whenever possible
4. Get rid of unnecessary files.

Once you have identified clutter factors, restart your thought process. Sometimes it may be as easy as taking a break or leaving the situation behind for a short period of time. As a comparison to a computer, "reboot yourself". This will help to put things back to the basics. Another helpful mental exercise may be to start using "to-do" lists. Instead of completely relying on your mind to remember, use a piece of paper. This can open up memory storage that may now be used for a better purpose.

Speaking of exercise, starting a good diet and exercise program can help clear the mind and strengthen the body to meet your "mind challenges". Another simple approach may be to make sure you are getting enough sleep. Sleep rejuvenates our minds.

For storing new information, try a three-step model to help you keep your thoughts in order, and remember information that will be helpful for you.

Step 1: Interest

Focus on a topic or subject that you find interesting. Start out simple, with such things as "Where did I put my keys?" or remembering song lyrics. Your curiosity can be a very strong tool in remembering! If you are especially interested in a particular subject or event, you are less likely to forget... or perhaps just be more motivated to remember!

Step 2: Attention and Understanding

After you have established a subject topic, identify the distinguishing features of these thoughts. For example, "where do I put my keys when I get home or when I arrive at the office?", or "what song do I want to learn?". This will help you identify specifically what you want to remember.

Step 3: Repetition

Learn to etch memories into your mind. Some subjects may require more effort, but repetition can ensure better remembrance in most cases.

These are some ideas that can help you find ways to improve your memory. Taking the time to analyze your thinking processes can be very helpful at untangling your brain. Remember, your interest and enthusiasm can go a long way toward improving your memory.

References:

College of William and Mary. (2004). Human Memory
Retrieved: October 26, 2004 from the World Wide Web.
Website: http://www.wm.edu/psyc/psy201efr/intro_70.htm

Carver, J.M. (2004). Emotional Memory Management: Positive Control Over Your Memory.
Retrieved: October 20, 2004 from the World Wide Web.
Website: http://www.drjoecarver.com/Memory.html

Kalska, H. (2001). Does Depression Impair Memory Function?
Retrieved: October 25, 2004 from the World Wide Web.
Website: http://www.defeatdepression.org/pdf/depimpmem.pdf