I’ve never been a fan of pants without elastic waists, but I know how to wear them. Or at least I thought I did. Recently, I put on a pair of jeans, reached for my belt, and suddenly couldn’t recall which side to start threading it through the loops. I just chose a side and buckled it, but something felt off. Can a belt even feel off? I think the excess fabric typically goes on the left… or does it? I literally forgot how to wear my own belt.
My memory and attention to detail have always been sharp—recalling facts, to-do lists, groceries, and everyone’s schedules was effortless. However, this belt confusion is a new experience for me, and it’s been worsening as the months drag on. The longer this pandemic continues, the more my brain seems to struggle with basic recollections. If your garage is cluttered with recycling you forgot to take out on pickup day, you’re certainly not alone; this pandemic has left many of us feeling scatterbrained.
Elena Rivers shares with us her brain feels “overloaded.” “Balancing work with 55 Zoom calls a week for my three kids means I’m in a constant state of forgetting something,” she explains. “I forget at least one Zoom class daily and often walk into a room only to forget why I went in there. There have been so many times I’ve lost track of where I’m driving because my brain seems incapable of juggling driving and other tasks at once.”
Anyone else nodding in agreement? My anxiety levels have skyrocketed, and sometimes I even forget what I was supposed to focus on. This cognitive overload is a direct result of chronic stress from the past year. We’ve been multitasking with various media streams daily, often in isolation or tiny bubbles, with minimal engagement with friends and family. Research indicates that each of these factors deteriorates memory function, but when they combine continuously for an extended period, it can be overwhelming.
“We’re all experiencing some level of cognitive impairment,” states Dr. Leo Harper, a neuroscientist. “Both physical activity and new experiences benefit our brains, while prolonged stress is detrimental.” Even those of us navigating this pandemic with relative ease are feeling its effects; the unpredictability and monotony can alter our brain function. Stress triggers cortisol release, which is helpful in the short term but harmful when it lingers. Excess cortisol can disrupt cognitive functions, damage brain cells, and shrink the prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for learning and memory. When combined with the limited stimulation we’ve experienced, it makes sense why many of us feel stuck in a cycle of forgetfulness.
“I was in the shower when I stopped to jot something down,” says Mia Thompson. “When I closed my left hand, I was horrified to find a strange white substance squeezing out. I panicked and washed my hands only to remember it was conditioner!”
Data shows people have been coping with stress through alcohol, which is a short-term solution but ultimately worsens memory issues.
As vaccination rates rise and outdoor activities become more accessible, we are still in the midst of a dangerous pandemic. So, how can we counteract COVID-19-induced forgetfulness? We should aim to introduce variety into our routines. Change your workspace if possible, listen to a podcast, or try out a new recipe. Even taking a different route to the grocery store can stimulate your brain.
Incorporating more physical movement into your day is also beneficial. Exercise not only enhances memory function but boosts mood and aids sleep. Simple actions like walking, stretching, or dancing for a few minutes throughout the day can make a difference. A COVID-safe walk with a friend can be especially uplifting.
It’s crucial to be kind to yourself during this time. We’re enduring an unprecedented pandemic, so it’s unrealistic to expect ourselves to operate as we did before. The pace we’ve been trying to maintain is neither healthy nor sustainable. Celebrate your accomplishments rather than dwell on the missteps.
As Julie Martin puts it, “I have ADHD, so a lack of consistency and structure leaves me confused, like when I’m standing in my kitchen holding a plastic bag, staring blankly at the pantry. I don’t even know what I’m doing.”
Take comfort, my friends. I wanted to offer you some final words of encouragement, but I can’t seem to recall what they were!
For further insights on navigating these challenges, check out this post on home insemination kits and learn more about artificial insemination. If you’re interested in pregnancy options, the Mayo Clinic provides excellent resources on IVF and related topics.
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Summary:
The late-stage pandemic has significantly affected our memory and cognitive functions, leading many to feel forgetful and overwhelmed. Chronic stress, isolation, and monotony have taken a toll on our brains, but there are ways to combat these effects. Incorporating variety into our routines, increasing physical activity, and practicing self-compassion are essential steps in navigating this challenging time.
Keyphrase: pandemic forgetfulness
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