Depression is known as a mood disorder, but it affects much more than your moods and emotions. You may know that depression can cause low energy, reduced appetite, or aches and pains. It can also have a significant impact on your memory and vice versa. Depression has a complex relationship with different types of short- and long-term memory.

Episodic memory is the detailed memory of the events we experience. Working memory is the short-term memory we use to complete complex tasks. There’s mixed evidence that depression may also affect general memory in older adults.

In this article, we’ll talk about the connection between depression and memory loss and treatments that may help.

The science behind depression’s impact on memory 

There are a few different theories about the relationship between depression and memory loss. The causes of mood and memory symptoms may be different from person to person. One possibility is that depression uses up resources that the brain needs for more difficult tasks, such as memory recall. It’s also possible that both depression and memory symptoms stem from one cause, like chronic stress. A third theory is that depression may be a result of cognitive decline related to aging and other causes.

Depressive mood symptoms are associated with decreases in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. This can affect certain cognitive processes. However, antidepressant medications that affect neurotransmitter levels don’t seem to improve memory. Successful treatment of mood symptoms may lead to improvements in memory. People with a history of depression may still experience more memory loss than others. In fact, taking antidepressants may contribute to memory problems. 

Both natural and accelerated aging are important factors to consider when talking about depression and memory. These symptoms together become more common during and after middle age. The prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus are parts of the brain that play roles in depression and memory. Atrophy or reduced volume in these areas may be related to both mood symptoms and cognitive decline. 

There are protective factors that can help prevent memory loss from depression. Some work by increasing cognitive reserve. This is your brain’s ability to compensate for problems that affect functioning. Education is one of the biggest protective factors. Your socioeconomic status, your job, access to healthcare, diet and other lifestyle factors can also make a difference.

Modern factors that compound memory loss from depression

Today’s modern lifestyle comes with high expectations and cognitive demands. These can contribute to both depression and memory issues. Cognitive overload from a busy schedule and constant context switching can impact working memory. Excessive social media use and a lack of sleep from too much screen time can also affect mood and memory consolidation. 

Struggling with certain tasks, such as social interactions, can create a cycle of avoidance that wears away at your confidence. This works like a self-fulfilling prophecy. After negative experiences, you may avoid putting yourself in the same situations. As a result, you have less experience with memory-strengthening activities.

Breaking the memory loss-depression cycle 

Evidence-based treatments and lifestyle modifications can help break the cycle, improving memory and mood symptoms. Each person should receive personalized treatment based on their symptoms and their health history. Care plans may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques, memory training exercises and medication. Your providers may also consult with you on self-care strategies such as sleep hygiene, exercise and nutrition. 

Here’s a bit more detail about treatments and lifestyle changes that may help:

• Psychiatric medication — When choosing an antidepressant, talk with your prescriber about how different options may affect your memory. Tell them about any cognitive symptoms you have and how they’re affecting your life.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — A therapist can use CBT techniques to help you manage mood symptoms affecting your memory. CBT also includes exercises to help with attention and focus, which can help improve memory. When memory loss can’t be avoided, CBT can help you reframe negative thoughts and reduce stress.
• Lifestyle modifications — Your brain can’t function at its best without a foundation of strong physical health. Sleep and nutrition are critical for cognitive performance. Your providers can help you find strategies that work for you.

Explore treatment options for depression and memory loss with ReKlame Health

If you’re experiencing both mood symptoms and memory loss, there’s a good chance they’re related. The specifics of your symptoms and what’s causing them will be unique to your situation. Typical depression treatments don’t always help with memory loss, so it’s critical to work with care providers who understand the possible connections. 

At ReKlame, we offer personalized, culturally relevant medication management services for complex mental health conditions. We can match you with a psychiatric nurse practitioner who has experience treating depression with cognitive symptoms. You can expect a supportive relationship with a provider who listens and addresses your concerns. 

Ready to start the conversation? Appointments are available now. Check your eligibility for free online or book an initial appointment online.