Can stress and lack of sleep cause memory problems?

Question

I have had some bad sleeping patterns during the past years (sleeping late, waking up early and not having any specific sleep and wake up time and not getting enough sleep during the night) and I have also had stress and anxiety problems. Recently I have noticed that at times I have trouble remembering things that I could easily remember in the past....

Is lack of sleep and stress/anxiety related to memory problems? Can fixing the sleeping patterns and changing life-style help to improve the problem? I'm kind of worried is this problem dangerous? How can I fix it?

I remember once I even forgot my girlfriend's name while she was sitting right next to me. I have started forgetting very simple stuff (Such as name, places etc...) although I'm still young (27). Could it all be due to my bad sleeping habits and stressful life-style?

Answer 1

Absolutely...yes.
To function normally the brain has to have a rest, just like a battery needs time to recharge.

Answer 2

You're right.
If the body doesn't get enough regular rest, over time it will start to reduce its functions. It's kind of like a government running out of money and cutting its services.
Your memory issues could definitely be related to poor sleep patterns and should be addressed as soon as possible.
Sleep hygeine is an interesting idea which supposes that we should have a specific regimen for sleeping- regular times, regular activities etc. There are many sources for further reading.
I would also suggest that in addition, smaller meals at night, combined with some exercise and meditative breathing would certainly help.

Answer 3

Lack of sleep alone can cause memory problems. If you really want to improve your memory the two biggest factors are 8 uninterrupted hours of sleep and a daily exercise routine. Also its good to sleep on the same schedule every night as well so that your body knows when to sleep and eventually you'll wake up automatically without the need of alarm clocks. Thats when you know your sleeping habits where they need to be. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and also improves general feelings of happieness and lowers stress levels.

Answer 4

not only memory problems, it also causes concentration problems, decreased mental activity , fatigue, dark circles around the eyes, loss of hair, weight gain, irritability, hallucinations.. headache, color blindness, imaptience, depression.. and the list goes onnnnn and ooooon...........etc

Answer 5

sure could be, after all your mind needs to rest to, so it can heal , and with stand the stuff being thrown at it all the time.

Answer 6

yes

Answer 7

yes

Answer 8

Sounds like someone has been a bad boy.When my husband was doing things he shouldn't of been doing that is what happened to him.

Answer 9

yes; you need med help