Pseudo-Dementia: The Silent Threat Among the Young & Stressed

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Highlights:

• Pseudo-dementia, unlike dementia, doesn't result in true brain degeneration but mimics its symptoms due to stress
• Chronic stress, multitasking, and high workloads are increasing cases of cognitive issues in those under 50
• Awareness, counseling, and cognitive behavioral therapy can help manage and treat these issues effectively

Do you frequently forget the names of people you know well, the location of your car keys, or the title of the movie you recently saw? While many people believe that forgetfulness is an early sign of dementia, doctors refer to it as 'pseudo-dementia,' which they say affects younger individuals owing to excessive stress, multitasking, and high workload, which can lead to despair (1^✔).

Rising Concern of Pseudo-Dementia

Doctors believe that with this illness, depression or severe stress induces cognitive deficiencies that mimic dementia. However, unlike dementia, pseudo-dementia is not progressing and does not result in true brain degeneration. Its sufferers frequently have difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and indications of depression or overthinking. Significant amnesia is becoming more common among the younger people.

Chronic Stress, Multitasking, and Memory Lapses Can Lead to 'Pseudo Dementia'

Doctors receive 5-10 cases every month from people under the age of 50 who seek treatment for such illnesses. Excessive career-related stress, a heavy workload, and concerns about social standing all impose strain on the brain, preventing it from absorbing information entirely and preventing it from reaching permanent memory. Furthermore, processing too much information at the same time, or multitasking, leads to a loss of focus.

Memory works in three stages: paying attention to something, receiving it, and maintaining it. Every step demands some effort from the brain, but chronic stress can impair its capabilities. People who are aware of the reasons for it can keep it in check with a little effort (2^✔). Consciously attempting to concentrate or taking actions to alleviate depression can help to improve the condition and minimize anxiety.

How Anxiety Affects our Mind, Memory and Daily Functioning

Excessive work pressure, negative thinking, overthinking, multitasking, and interpersonal problems all contribute to anxiety. These are linked because when people are anxious, they are unable to complete numerous things. Their memory, attention span, and concentration suffer, affecting daily functioning (3^✔). People suffering from the disease can benefit from counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation. More and more young people are struggling to cope with life's stresses, whether personal, professional, or financial. It is very alarming, but with appropriate information and awareness, it should be preventable and treatable.

‘Facing forgetfulness or concentration issues in your 30s or 40s? It might be pseudo-dementia, a result of our modern-day stresses. Knowledge is power; let's tackle it head-on! #pseudodementiaawareness ’

References:

1. Pseudodementia - (https:pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/453349/)
2. Pseudo-dementia: A neuropsychological review - (https:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4090838/)
3. Pseudodementia caused by severe depression - (https:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4543958/)

Source: Medindia

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