Recurrent episodes of depression in adulthood are associated with a risk of memory problems. It is well known that depression and mental health issues can affect short term memory.
One study published in Cognition and Emotion found that individuals with persistent unhappiness and depression had poorer working memory compared to people without mental health problems.
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The latest research findings link mental health problems experienced throughout adulthood to memory problems by the age of 50.
The researchers explain that the more depressive episodes someone experiences, the greater their risk of later life cognitive impairment.
They followed a cohort for over 60 years and collected health information throughout the participant’s years. Symptoms were also documented, and the participant’s agreed to undergo cognitive and memory tests.
The researchers looked at the frequency with which participants experienced mental health symptoms throughout the study and memory function was assessed at age 50. The researchers found that symptoms spanning across decades were associated with reduced cognitive function in midlife.
A single depressive episode was not associated with a decline in cognitive function, but repeated episodes had the strongest association with cognitive decline.
Study first author Amber John explained, “We knew from previous research that depressive symptoms experienced in mid-adulthood to late-adulthood can predict a decline in brain function in later life, but we were surprised to see just how clearly persistent depressive symptoms across three decades of adulthood are an important predictor of poorer memory function in midlife.”
The study highlights the importance of caring for one’s mental health throughout the years as a means of reducing the risk of cognitive problems and memory loss. Generally, the risk increases with age, but it could be sped up due to depressive episodes.
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John concluded, “From an individual’s perspective this research should be a wake-up call to do what you can to protect your mental health, such as maintaining strong relationships with friends and family, taking up physical exercise, or practicing mindfulness meditation — all of which have been shown to boost mental health.”
If you believe you are depressed or experiencing mental health problems, speak to your doctor, as there are many different treatment options available.
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Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
