Cognitive disorders
Cognitive disorders are difficulties with memory, thinking, attention, or finding words.
Our cognitive abilities—memory, attention, thinking, learning, and decision-making—keep our daily lives, work, and relationships functioning. Difficulties in these areas can be temporary (due to stress or lack of sleep, for example) or more permanent, indicating a neurological or mental illness.
Our cognitive abilities—memory, attention, thinking, learning, and decision-making—keep our daily lives, work, and relationships functioning. Difficulties in these areas can be temporary (due to stress or lack of sleep, for example) or more permanent, indicating a neurological or mental illness.
Our cognitive abilities—memory, attention, thinking, learning, and decision-making—keep our daily lives, work, and relationships functioning. Difficulties in these areas can be temporary (due to stress or lack of sleep, for example) or more permanent, indicating a neurological or mental illness.
Cognitive abilities are
- Learning ability and memory (short-term, long-term, working memory)
- Attention and concentration
- Language skills and speech processing
- Executive functions (e.g., planning, decision-making, impulse control, problem-solving skills)
- Perception (integration of external stimuli, e.g., spatial and temporal perception)
How can you tell if you have a cognitive disorder?
Mild forgetfulness and absent-mindedness are common, especially during stressful and tiring periods of life. It is worth seeking help if the problem worsens, persists for several months, and interferes with your daily life.
If self-help (sleep, rest, aids) does not help, consult your family doctor. The doctor will assess your condition and refer you for tests if necessary.
The most common symptoms of cognitive impairment are
- frequent forgetfulness,
- persistent difficulty concentrating,
- slow thinking,
- difficulty finding words,
- difficulty orienting oneself,
- difficulty planning or performing daily activities.
The most common symptoms of cognitive impairment are
- frequent forgetfulness,
- persistent difficulty concentrating,
- slow thinking,
- difficulty finding words,
- difficulty orienting oneself,
- difficulty planning or performing daily activities.
The impact of aging on mental capacity
As we age, our brains process information a little more slowly and our attention wanders more easily, so learning new things can take longer.
However, most older people can still function independently—this is normal aging, not a disease.
The impact of aging on mental capacity
As we age, our brains process information a little more slowly and our attention wanders more easily, so learning new things can take longer.
However, most older people can still function independently—this is normal aging, not a disease.
The impact of stress and overload on mental capacity
Long-term stress can interfere with attention and memory because stress hormones inhibit the work of the hippocampus. The good news is that these changes are usually reversible.
To recover, get enough sleep, take short breaks during the day, take time for breathing exercises or a walk, reduce your workload, and rest.
The impact of stress and overload on mental capacity
Long-term stress can interfere with attention and memory because stress hormones inhibit the work of the hippocampus. The good news is that these changes are usually reversible.
To recover, get enough sleep, take short breaks during the day, take time for breathing exercises or a walk, reduce your workload, and rest.
Medications and their impact on mental capacity
Some medications (e.g., sedatives, sleeping pills, and painkillers) can cause drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, or memory problems.
If you notice such changes after starting a new medication, talk to your doctor.
Medications and their impact on mental capacity
Some medications (e.g., sedatives, sleeping pills, and painkillers) can cause drowsiness, difficulty concentrating, or memory problems.
If you notice such changes after starting a new medication, talk to your doctor.
Major cognitive disorders
From mild impairment to dementia
Mild cognitive impairment may involve memory problems or other cognitive changes, but the person can still cope with everyday life.
Dementia is a more severe and persistent cognitive decline that interferes with independent functioning, so that the person may need help with daily activities. Dementia may be preceded by a stage of mild cognitive impairment, but this is not always the case.
Depression and anxiety disorders
Depression and anxiety disorders are often accompanied by difficulties with concentration and memory. These changes are usually reversible—as mental well-being improves, so do thinking and memory.
Sometimes these symptoms resemble mild cognitive impairment or early dementia, so it is worth consulting a doctor to determine the cause.
Other mental disorders
Thinking, memory, and concentration can also be affected by other conditions, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, addiction, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia).
Important questions
Why do cognitive disorders occur?
There is no single cause for cognitive disorders. They are influenced by a number of different factors.
How common are cognitive disorders?
Temporary cognitive difficulties occur in about one in three adults during their lifetime.
How can you help yourself or your loved ones?
There are several ways to do this, but the most important thing is to stay active.
Diagnosis and treatment options
Consult your family doctor if forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or other symptoms interfere with your daily life or ability to work.