We’re writing this down really quickly – lest we end up fashionably forgetting. The human brain is a complex organ. But it is also a smart cookie. It knows the art of self-preservation: by forgetting things, wilfully. There are several kinds of manifestations. For instance, when you can’t remember the simplest things like a friend’s name or where you kept the car keys. Or the perennial problem of ‘finding’ your eyewear (with the glasses probably perched on your head). This forgetfulness can be irritating. It can be embarrassing. So, it’s best to learn to live with it, praying that these are not the first signs of dementia. And the thing is that it most probably is not. Say hello to the latest trending lifestyle disease: pseudo-dementia.
Doctors say this afflicts many young people because of work stress, overthinking and depression. Oh, and multitasking. Human memory works in three parts: giving attention to something, receiving attention, retaining attention. That’s serious workout for the brain. Now that the truth behind this adult upgrade of the old ‘The dog ate my homework’ chestnut has been revealed, doctors say one can keep a check by slowing down, managing stress and, if everything fails, going to counselling sessions. We are told taking the chill pill also helps. And have a list of dos and don’ts. That we must, um, remember.
