Have you ever been in a situation where you can not remember basic information, someone’s name, or how to finish the sentence you have started? This phenomenon is frequent, but it is often misinterpreted as something related to ageing.
The phenomenon named ‘brain fog’ is not always a direct consequence of ageing. There is more to it than just ‘we are getting old’ jokes. In this article, we will try to explain what exactly brain fog is, what are the possible causes of it, and how to cope with it.
What is brain fog?
Naming it fog is pretty much self-explanatory. Brain fog is not exactly a medical term, but a descriptive one. It covers multiple feelings and situations. People who experience this often describe it as being forgetful, not present, and feeling like their judgment is clouded.
This may come out as being distanced, not concentrating on work, or conversation, or simply forgetting details as we speak. One of the most frequent situations that often happen to anyone is the scenario when you have to take something from the other room, but when you get there, you have forgotten what you came for.
So, the phenomenon under the name brain fog can be described as being forgetful, having a lack of concentration, and zoning out in the middle of doing something. These usually apply to regular daily tasks, which makes it really scary for people that are experiencing it.
Why do you experience brain fog?
Brain fog is usually interpreted as a follow-up of being too tired, not having enough concentration, or being stressed out, and it is often disregarded as such. This seems like we are treating brain fog as a consequence, not the issue itself. The problem is that brain fog can sometimes be an indicator of more serious issues.
It is scientifically proven that brain fog can be a result of a lousy sleep schedule, poor dieting choices, as well as high levels of stress in someone’s life. So, the first step to finding the cause of it is to simply double-check your lifestyle.
Implicit and explicit memory issues alone can be connected with multiple psychological and neurological conditions. Stress is, unfortunately, a part of everyone’s life nowadays, but if you feel like it is not that, and you strive to live as healthy as possible, we friendly suggest you consult your health provider.
How to cope with brain fog?
Aside from consulting a doctor, there are a few things you can do for yourself in this situation. The first and foremost thing you should try is to get your stress levels under control. We know that it may seem like a long shot, but it is extremely important.
You can deal with stress by going to therapy, meditating, practising yoga, etc. Whatever works for you. Do not underestimate the power of movement in combat against stress. A simple walk, a swim, jog, or dancing, can do wonders for your body and mind.
A healthy diet goes hand in hand with exercise. Supplementation is also a great choice if you feel like you might lack some vitamins and minerals. Vitamin shots or vitamin injections can be used to boost your energy, improve brain function, and combat viruses.
Try to manage your sleep schedule. You do not have to sleep 8+ hours each day, but try not to go below 6h. Sometimes the quality of your sleep is more important than quantity. Meaning, it is better to have a full-on quality 6h sleep, than average quality 8 hours.
Waking up in the middle of the night, not being able to fall asleep past midnight, and such, are lowering your sleep quality in general. Try to relax before bedtime. Go offline, and leave your gadgets outside the bedroom.
A cup of camomile tea in bed, relaxing music or white noise, or perhaps a nice book can help you get cosy and fall asleep easier.
Do whatever works best for you, and if you still have doubts, do not hesitate to ask for a medical opinion. Stay safe and healthy.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
