What Is Brain Fog? 

Hello lovely humans! Do you find yourself feeling tired or “lazy” randomly in the middle of the day? When someone asks you a question that you would usually have no problem answering, you take time, feel confused, slow, and unable to recall any information. Nothing makes sense and you feel lost. If so, chances are you aren’t lazy but suffering from Brain Fog. 

Brain fog is not a medical condition on its own; rather, it may be a result of other health issues - a symptom of other underlying conditions. It is a cognitive dysfunction usually characterised by “mental fuzziness,"  confusion, and forgetfulness. It is similar to mental fatigue, and depending on its level of severity, it may disrupt our everyday activities and tasks. 

It is important to remember that if you experience symptoms listed, seeking help is always a priority. Talking with a doctor or mental health professionals at Heart It Out, and other organisations can always ensure any underlying health issue is taken care of and addressed appropriately.

The Setbacks of Feeling Mentally Fuzzy

There can be both structural and functional causes of Brain Fog, which makes it very important to seek help. Let’s focus on a few causes while keeping in mind that many more do exist. 

When you are in a constant state of fight or flight, your blood pressure increases, which ultimately weakens your immune system. In your exhaustion, it becomes difficult to think, pay attention, remember, and reason, ultimately leading to feelings of fatigue

An increase or decrease in progesterone and oestrogen levels can affect your memory and cognition. 

Lack of sleep (less than 8-9 hours), and poor quality of sleep, can lead to fuzzy thoughts and decreased concentration. 

Research shows that many medications are accompanied by the side effects of Brain Fog and drowsiness. Many other conditions like inflammation, anaemia, hypothyroidism, depression, dehydration, migraines, and chronic fatigue syndrome can cause Brain Fog. COVID-19 was also found to cause inflammation in the brain, directly affecting the neurons present. 

Stress, depression, anxiety, and extreme feelings of isolation also indirectly cause Brain Fog.

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Recognising Signs and Seeking Help

If you’re feeling spaced out, having trouble remembering things, struggle to paying attention, and find it difficult to complete relatively simple tasks, it is extremely important to seek help from a healthcare professional.

Your doctor, therapist, or any healthcare professional will most likely ask you questions regarding your mental health, diet, sleep, and current medications. Remember, “feeling off”, is always a big deal and should be treated as such rather than being brushed away. 

Dispel the Mist - How To Boost Mental Clarity 

Here are some tips to prevent and reduce Brain Fog and increase mental clarity, thereby also improving your overall physical and mental well-being. 

Getting a solid 8 to 9 hours of good sleep makes you more alert, and also allows your body to repair and prepare itself for the next day. 

Including food that contains plenty of iron and vitamins can reduce Brain Fog. 

Extended periods spent in front of a computer screen or any other kind of screen can alter the structure and behaviour of the brain, leading to health problems with your eyesight and Brain Fog.

Leisure time is one of the most important aspects of maintaining our overall well-being, Strengthening the different parts of your brain by engaging in play, fun, and hobbies can prevent and reduce Brain Fog. 

We live in a world where we are expected to do as much as possible to ensure we don't miss out on anything and we stay constantly “productive”. This idea encourages us to multitask which is extremely harmful to our health. It drains our energy and forces us to pay attention to more than one task causing confusion and fatigue.

Photo by  Christina @ wocintechchat.com Team  on  Unsplash

Find Clarity with The Right Support 

Heart It Out is always a safe place to discuss any problems or concerns you may have! Brain Fog can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes even hopeless, but relief and help are always possible! While some people experience it occasionally, and others seem to feel it chronically, it is always important to talk to your healthcare providers.