All about PTSD and Memory Loss 

Post-traumatic stress disorder is unique in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. That’s because for physicians to diagnose, they need to expose the person to trauma. For this reason, PTSD and memory issues are often called “trauma-related anxiety disorder.” But memory changes represent such a central part of the symptom picture. So some researchers consider PTSD as a disorder of basic memory function.

Recurrent intrusive memories of a traumatic event characterize post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They occur six months after the accident and persist for over a month. Scientists have not fully understood the pathophysiology of this disorder. Symptoms also include:

• avoidance of stimuli;
• associated with the traumatic event;
• nightmares and flashbacks. 

Doctors make a diagnosis based on the history of PTSD effects on memory. Treatment consists of exposure and medication therapy.

PTSD impairs memory. It means that at the slightest hint of memories of trauma, intrusive flashbacks can occur. They can take you back to the worst times of your life. But it can also lead to large memory lapses and short-term memory impairment. Read our article further to learn more about PTSD and short-term memory loss.

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Symptoms

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental illness. It can develop after a person has experienced or seen a traumatic event. PTSD and loss of memory symptoms can vary from person to person. Doctors have grouped them into four main categories: 

• re-experiencing;
• avoidance;
• negative changes in mood;
• cognition hyperexcitability. 

Here are some common symptoms of PTSD:

• Re-experiencing symptoms. It occurs due to the triggers can be because of memories. When reminded of the event, they may also experience physical reactions such as:

• sweating;
• rapid heartbeat.

• Avoidance symptoms. People with PTSD may avoid anything that reminds them of the traumatic event, including:

• people;
• places;
• activities. 

They may also avoid talking about the event or their feelings related to it.

• Negative changes in mood and cognition. Traumatic memory loss can cause people to feel numbness or detachment from others. Or they may have a persistent negative mood. They may also experience negative thoughts or feelings about themselves or the world, such as:

• guilt;
• shame;
• hopelessness.

• Hyperarousal symptoms. People with PTSD may constantly feel on edge, irritable, or have difficulty sleeping. They may also experience hypervigilance. It means they are constantly scanning their environment for potential threats.

PTSD symptoms can be severe and disruptive to a person’s daily life. They may last for months or even years after the traumatic event. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD and memory problems. It’s important to seek professional help from a mental health provider. Treatment for PTSD may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

How does PTSD affect your memory?

PTSD has several effects on memory. People with PTSD may have difficulty recalling specific details about traumatic events. They may also have trouble remembering certain aspects of their lives:

• before;
• after the event. 

Sometimes, people with PTSD may have difficulty forming new memories or retaining information.

Here are some ways that PTSD can affect memory:

Why does PTSD affect short-term memory?

PTSD can affect short-term memory loss. Because of the effects of the brain’s stress response. When a person experiences a traumatic event, the brain’s stress response becomes active. This causes the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones help the body respond to an immediate threat. But they can also harm memory.

In particular, cortisol can impair the brain’s ability to form new memories. This is what affects short-term memory. When a person has elevated cortisol levels, the hippocampus becomes damaged or inhibited. This is the part of the brain involved in forming new memories. This can make it difficult to encode new information into long-term memory. This then means that PTSD  can cause difficulties with short-term memory loss.

Also, hypervigilance is a common symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder.  It can interfere with focusing on information or retaining it in short-term memory. People with PTSD may have a heightened state of alertness. They may be easily distracted or overwhelmed.

How to improve your PTSD-related short-term memory problems?

If you are experiencing short-term memory loss due to PTSD, you have to get treatment. Several strategies may help improve your memory function:

1.Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety, improving memory function. It can be:

• deep breathing;
• meditation;
• progressive muscle relaxation.

2. Improve sleep habits. PTSD and memory problems can often lead to sleep disturbances, negatively affecting memory. Good sleep hygiene practices can improve sleep quality and boost memory function. It can be: 

• maintaining a consistent sleep schedule;
• avoiding electronic devices before bed;
• creating a relaxing sleep environment.

3. Engage in cognitive training. Certain cognitive training programs, such as computer-based brain training exercises, may help. They improve short-term memory function.

4. Exercise regularly. Studies have shown that exercises have a positive effect on memory function. As it promotes the release of neurotransmitters and growth factors.

5. Seek professional treatment. Treatment for traumatic memory loss, such as therapy and medication, can help to alleviate symptoms and improve memory function. A mental health provider can work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

6. Use memory aids. Things such as calendars or reminders can help to compensate for memory problems. So they improve day-to-day functioning.

Are you or a loved one struggling with PTSD  and its effects on memory? If so, Lone Star Neurology can help. Our experienced and compassionate neurologists specialize in treating PTSD and associated memory problems using state-of-the-art techniques and therapies. We work with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan. It addresses their unique needs and goals. Whether you are looking for medication management, psychotherapy, or cognitive rehabilitation, we are here to provide the care and support you need to improve your quality of life. Don’t let PTSD and loss of memory control your life any longer. Contact Lone Star Neurology to schedule a consultation! So you can start your journey toward healing and recovery.

FAQ

• Can memory loss from PTSD be reversed?

Memory loss from PTSD can often be improved but may not always be completely reversible, as the extent to which memory can be restored depends on various factors such as the severity and duration of the memory loss and the response to treatment.

• How long does it take for the brain to recover from PTSD?

The duration of recovery from PTSD can vary for each individual. It is difficult to predict a specific timeline for brain recovery. As it depends on various factors such as the severity and duration of the trauma. The type of treatment and the individual’s health and response are also important.

• How do people behave when they have PTSD?

People with PTSD may exhibit a range of behaviors such as avoidance of triggers, hyperarousal, re-experiencing traumatic events through flashbacks or nightmares, emotional numbness, and difficulties with concentration and memory.

• How quickly does PTSD develop?

It develops very quickly, within a few hours or days. This disorder of consciousness, stunting of some kind, can be. However, PTSD can also develop for a long time. Within a month, the PTSD condition is assessed as a pathological stress reaction.