I've been dealing with memory issues for the past seven months.
If it puts your mind at ease, I have the exact same cognitive issues that you list here. I have trouble recalling memories and there is almost a mental barrier when I try to remember something specific. I also have difficulties focusing on one task and will completely forget something in a matter of seconds if I am not giving it my undivided attention. I went to get an MRI just to make sure and it came back completely normal, which leads me to believe that this symptom is merely a component of anxiety.
In your case, I would say that it is much of the same. If you're having several panic attacks, it's clear that you have quite the anxious mind. It's been overworked and exhausted from all of this. When this happens, it can be hard to give your cognition the motivation that it needs to kick on and work 100%. I've also noticed that long stints on the computer can also exacerbate it. Since I'm in university and many of my courses are online, I typically spend 5-7 hours (after school) working on my course load. This typically makes the brain fog worse, but I haven't quite figured out why. Perhaps the abundance of information computers provide may be the cause.
Anyway, I honestly don't believe your memory problems are permanent. You aren't forgetful of things that would generally allude to something serious. It would be wise to get away from the computer for a bit also. Something that I've been trying for the past month (to pretty great results):
Sometimes, I think we're so wrapped up in our own heads that it becomes difficult to process things cognitively. Especially when on the internet, our brain is working at triple the efficiency and is exhausting itself. If we give it time to relax and recuperate, we should be able to get it back on track. Have you thought about speaking to a therapist about your panic attacks?
Also, I see this is your first post. Welcome to the site!
If it puts your mind at ease, I have the exact same cognitive issues that you list here. I have trouble recalling memories and there is almost a mental barrier when I try to remember something specific. I also have difficulties focusing on one task and will completely forget something in a matter of seconds if I am not giving it my undivided attention. I went to get an MRI just to make sure and it came back completely normal, which leads me to believe that this symptom is merely a component of anxiety.
In your case, I would say that it is much of the same. If you're having several panic attacks, it's clear that you have quite the anxious mind. It's been overworked and exhausted from all of this. When this happens, it can be hard to give your cognition the motivation that it needs to kick on and work 100%. I've also noticed that long stints on the computer can also exacerbate it. Since I'm in university and many of my courses are online, I typically spend 5-7 hours (after school) working on my course load. This typically makes the brain fog worse, but I haven't quite figured out why. Perhaps the abundance of information computers provide may be the cause.
Anyway, I honestly don't believe your memory problems are permanent. You aren't forgetful of things that would generally allude to something serious. It would be wise to get away from the computer for a bit also. Something that I've been trying for the past month (to pretty great results):
- Make sure your diet fulfills all nutrient and vitamin requirements.
- Exercise frequently and daily. Doesn't have to be strenuous, as long as you're getting out.
- Get away from the computer and find a hobby outside - something that you enjoy and can easily take your attention.
Sometimes, I think we're so wrapped up in our own heads that it becomes difficult to process things cognitively. Especially when on the internet, our brain is working at triple the efficiency and is exhausting itself. If we give it time to relax and recuperate, we should be able to get it back on track. Have you thought about speaking to a therapist about your panic attacks?
Also, I see this is your first post. Welcome to the site!
