The last few posts have been about “brain fog” and potential physical causes. Today, I would like to broaden that discussion – specifically, your ability to concentrate and some related issues that may be the result of psychological issues rather than physical.

Do You . . .

•    Have a hard time concentrating?
•    Have episodes of short term memory loss, confusion, or dizziness?
•    Frequently lose your train of thought?
•    Have a hard time staying focused?
•    Have a hard time learning new things?

Everyone can answer yes to those questions occasionally. However, if you are having the problems frequently, over an extended period of time, they may be linked to psychological issues.

Possible Causes:

Depression

Web MD describes depression as follows:

Depression is a serious and pervasive mood disorder. It causes feelings of sadness, hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness. Depression can be mild to moderate with symptoms of apathy, little appetite, difficulty sleeping, low self-esteem, and low-grade fatigue. Or it can be more severe.”

It affects everyone differently, but regardless of its intensity, it is difficult. When you add concentration problems, it can be hard to even deal with life.

Depression is not something to try to deal with on your own. You need to get professional help.

Insomnia

The human body requires sleep in order to renew itself. If you suffer from insomnia or sleep deprivation, your overall health may be at risk, and your mental health will also suffer. If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. S/he may recommend taking Vitamin D or a natural sleep aid like melatonin – or possibly something stronger. Try to nip this early, rather than letting it become a chronic problem.

Anxiety

Anxiety can be caused by a combination of factors, including changes in the brain and environmental stress such as a trauma other significant events; plus, studies show that some people may be genetically predisposed to anxiety.

Anxiety creates mental anguish and it is difficult to think clearly.

General symptoms include:

• Feelings of panic, fear, and uneasiness
• Heart palpitations
• Problems sleeping
• Cold or sweaty hands and/or feet
• Constant agitation
• Excessive worry and mental tension
• Plus others . . .

It is important to face the problem rather than try to live with it. There are medications that can help alleviate the symptoms and counseling from a trained professional can also help. If you suffer with anxiety, it is better to face the problem and get help, rather than try to live with it. It is not something that tends to go away on its own.

Emotional Conflict

Emotional stress from personal situations can cause serious side effects for your body and your mind.

Divorce, bankruptcy, job loss, difficult work situations, and trouble with your spouse or children are all types of emotional conflict that create intense stress. Because of the strong emotions involved, it is hard to not think about the situation all the time, which makes the ability to concentrate erratic.

The best thing is to find constructive ways to cope. Talking to someone helps – a counselor or a trusted friend. Getting your feelings out in the open can give some perspective and will help you explore your options on how to deal with them.  Keeping everything bottled up is not a healthy way to cope.

Trauma

Trauma as the result of a serious car accident, a physical attack, or death of a loved one can affect your ability to concentrate and think clearly. Everyone deals with trauma differently, but many struggle with frustration and anger, feeling overwhelmed with loss and grief, problems with concentration and sometimes mental confusion.

Since psychological factors can affect concentration, it is important that for all types of psychological issues that take care of yourself as quickly as possible and get professional help. It is important to do everything you can to keep you mind healthy and sharp.

** Please note the author is not a medical professional. Every effort has been made to include accurate information, but further research and the advice of a physician is highly recommended before following any of the advice listed.