What could be causing my memory issues and fatigue after past depression and anxiety treatment at 19?

Question #29471

45 days ago

100

What could be causing my memory issues and fatigue after past depression and anxiety treatment at 19? - #29471

Client_de601e

I am a 19-year-old who experienced depression between the ages of 14 and 18, during which I also dealt with anxiety and panic attacks. I took antidepressants for a short period (about a month) and eventually noticed that my depression and anxiety symptoms improved, even though I didn’t clearly recognize when I recovered. However, I am now struggling with persistent memory issues that affect my daily life. I tend to forget recent conversations, especially the exact words that were said, even if they happened just 15–20 minutes ago. I usually remember the general reason or outcome of an interaction, but not the details. I also have difficulty recalling routine things like what I ate the previous day unless I think very hard. After emotional situations, such as arguments, I often feel emotionally numb rather than overwhelmed, and although I no longer overthink like I used to, I still sometimes feel physical sensations like chest discomfort without being able to recall the thoughts that caused them. Additionally, I occasionally forget important tasks, meetings, and responsibilities, which is affecting my productivity. I sleep around 9–10 hours per night, but I still often feel tired, and while I do use screens frequently for work, I avoid short-form content. Overall, I am concerned about whether these memory and focus issues are related to my past mental health struggles, emotional processing, or something else, and I would like a proper evaluation and guidance. How long have you been experiencing these memory issues?: - More than 6 months How would you rate the severity of your memory problems?: - Moderate — frequent issues affecting daily life Have you noticed any triggers that worsen your memory issues?: - Stressful situations How do you feel emotionally after these memory lapses?: - Numb Do you have any other symptoms besides memory issues?: - Difficulty concentrating How would you describe your sleep quality despite sleeping 9-10 hours?: - Feeling tired upon waking Have you discussed your memory issues with a mental health professional?: - No, not yet

How long have you been experiencing these memory issues?:

- More than 6 months

How would you rate the severity of your memory problems?:

- Moderate — frequent issues affecting daily life

Have you noticed any patterns in when your memory issues occur?:

- No specific pattern

How do you feel emotionally after these memory lapses?:

- Numb

Do you have any other symptoms besides memory issues?:

- Difficulty concentrating

How would you describe your sleep quality despite sleeping 9-10 hours?:

- Feeling tired upon waking

Have you discussed your memory issues with a mental health professional?:

- No, not yet

How often do you use screens for work?:

- Most of the day

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

43 days ago

Hello dear
See you have combination of
Anxiety
Depression
Fog
Earlier three was overactivity of brain but now the processing speed has fallen
Reason is
Change of diurnal cycle of sleep
Emotional instability
Lack of Focus
However it can be modified by following precautions
Do meditation
Take good balanced diet for good health
Engage in social media
Indulge in hobbies like reading and writing
Avoid overthinking
Avoid junk food and alcohol/ smoking
Set your goals for every day
In addition please get following tests routinely for confirmation
CBC
Serum ferritin
Serum tsh
Serum dopamine and serotonin
Serum bradykinin
EMR
Regards
Brain USG
Hopefully you recover soon
Regards

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

43 days ago

Your memory problems and fatigue could related to several factors. Given your history of depression and anxiety, it’s possible that these are lingering effects, as both conditions can impact cognitive function, including memory and concentration. Sometimes, even if the emotional symptoms seem to have improved, cognitive symptoms can persist or reappear, especially under stress. Another factor might be the quality of your sleep. Even with 9-10 hours of sleep, if the quality isn’t good, it can lead to fatigue and cognitive issues. Conditions like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome can disrupt sleep cycles, undermining rest. Your frequent use of screens could also contribute, as extended screen time might affect both sleep patterns and cognitive clarity, particularly through blue light exposure or the nature of content.
It’s important to consider nutritional factors. Deficiencies in certain vitamins, like B12 or Vitamin D, can affect memory and energy levels. Checking your diet or having a talk with a healthcare provider about this could be useful. Also, physical health issues, such as thyroid dysfunction, can result in fatigue and cognitive disturbances. A full medical examination, including blood tests, might be a good step to rule out these possibilities. I recommend that you consult with a healthcare professional, ideally a neurologist or psychiatrist, who can perform a thorough assessment, possibly including cognitive testing to identify and differentiate between potential causes.
Managing stress might also help improve your memory and concentration issues. Techniques like mindfulness or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial. Prioritizing a sleep routine that supports deep sleep, such as minimizing screen time before bed or maintaining a regular sleep schedule, can be part of a non-drug strategy to enhance cognitive function. If you notice that your symptoms worsen significantly or interfere with your daily life, don’t delay in seeking medical advice, as a timely assessment leads to better management and resolution of underlying conditions. Remembering your routines, using reminders, or notes for tasks can also help bridge the gap while working on the root cause.

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