Can Depression Cause Memory Loss?

Depression has been linked to memory problems, such as forgetfulness or confusion. It can also make it difficult to focus on work or other tasks, make decisions, or think clearly. Stress and anxiety can also lead to poor memory.
Depression is associated with short-term memory loss. It doesn’t affect other types of memory, such as long-term memory and procedural memory, which controls motor skills.
Other symptoms of depression include:

• feeling sad, anxious, numb, or hopeless
• a loss of interest in activities or hobbies
• having little energy and feeling fatigued
• feeling restless or irritable
• feeling shame, guilt, worthlessness, or powerlessness
• a loss of appetite and drastic changes in weight
• having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• thinking about death or suicide
• having physical problems, such as headaches, stomachaches, and back pain

What the research says

Researchers in one 2013 study discovered that people with depression couldn’t identify objects on a screen that were identical or similar to an object they had seen previously. According to researchers, this suggests that memory can be diminished as a result of depression. Researchers in a 2015 studyTrusted Source came to a similar conclusion. They concluded that depression might cause short-term memory loss.

Other causes of memory loss

Other reasons you may experience memory loss can include the following:
• Normal age-related memory loss is common and manageable. One example of this is forgetting where you put your glasses but remembering later in the day.
• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It can cause progressive, irreparable brain damage and memory loss.
• Mild cognitive impairment can alter thinking skills and eventually progress to Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
• Minor head injury or trauma can trigger slight memory problems, even if you didn’t lose consciousness.
• Forgetfulness is a potential side effect of certain medications.
• Brain tumors or brain infections can affect your memory or trigger dementia-like symptoms.
• Vitamin B-12 deficiency can create problems with your memory. This is because you’re not maintaining healthy nerve cells and red blood cells.
• Drug abuse can impair your mental state and abilities.
• Hypothyroidism slows your metabolism, which can lead to memory problems and other issues with thinking.
• Brain or nerve damage caused by diseases such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis can cause memory problems. A 2013 study found that people with depression have a greater risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

How to manage memory loss

Memory loss due to depression is typically managed with regular counseling or therapy and antidepressants. Leading an active lifestyle and getting involved in your community can also elevate your mood.
You can also manage your memory loss by using memory aids. You may also consider getting a home care provider to help you as needed. You may also consider joining a support group.
Medications that can improve memory and brain function in people with Alzheimer’s disease or other neurological disorders are also available.