Memory Loss and Depression – 3 Ways You Can Prevent Them
Memory loss and depression are symptoms that frequently occur together. When we are depressed, we have trouble concentrating on things. When we lose memories, we become depressed about the loss. But there are several ways you can prevent them.
Depression has many known causes. Illness and stress are the most common reasons, but depression may be passed down through families or brought on by drug and alcohol addiction. One in six Americans will suffer depression at least once in their lives, and the likelihood increases as we get older.
As we age, we worry about things like death and loss of function. Our brains lose the sharpness of youth and we are not quick to recollect things as we once were. This memory loss brings an anxious feeling that can turn into depression.
What can we do to prevent memory loss and depression?
1. Nutrition
Malnourishment is one of the major causes of depression. By eating a nutritious diet rich in vitamin B12, vitamin B9 and antioxidants we can ensure the healthy interactions of neurotransmitters in our brains, preserving memories. This mimics the effect of most well-known antidepressants by lowering the serotonin in our blood.
2. Exercise
Physical activity has also proven to lower serotonin in the blood. By keeping physically fit you can lower the risk of heart disease and obesity, removing two biological contributors to depression.
3. Antidepressants
In the most extreme cases of depression, antidepressants may be necessary. These can be pharmaceuticals such as Prozac or herbal remedies like St. John’s Wort. Herbal remedies are becoming increasingly popular, since they don’t have the severe side effects of prescription drugs. St. John’s Wort is currently the most prescribed antidepressant in Germany.
Memory loss and depression, while common, can be debilitating when experienced at the same time. But by leading a healthy lifestyle in general, you can lower your chances of becoming depressed.