Occasionally, everyone experiences difficulty concentrating, remembering a name or is forgetful. This can result from multi-tasking, stressful circumstances and even daydreaming.
However, changes in concentration or memory loss that occur suddenly or worsen over time can indicate a more serious condition and should not be ignored. When you experience frequent confusion or a prolonged state of confusion that hinders your ability to perform familiar tasks or results in dangerous behaviors, it can be an indication of a bigger problem.
If one or more of these problems describes your situation, you may require professional help:
- Wake up in the morning and forget what day it is
- Have difficulty balancing your checkbook
- Forget to turn off the stove
- Commonly experience abnormal sleeplessness and hyperactivity
Here’s an example of how excessive confusion can adversely affect someone:
Jim and his wife were filled with joy when their daughter gave birth to their first grandson and his namesake. Now that they were retired he looked forward to spending time with “Little Jim” and showing him off to his friends at their neighborhood park. The first symptom that Jim noticed was that he blanked on his grandson’s name when he made his introductory presentation in the park. This embarrassed him so he covered it up by referring to the child as “the boy” and was relieved that no one noticed. One day he realized that he didn’t recognize the street that he was on as they walked home. This scared him and he began to find excuses to avoid going to the park. One afternoon, while chatting with his neighbor, he heard his wife screaming from inside the house. He suddenly realized that before he had gone outside to get the mail he had started grilling a cheese sandwich and had completely forgot. He thought, “What is wrong with me?”
Excessive confusion has many causes. The clinical staff at Belmont Behavioral Health can help you understand what you are going through and work with you to develop a plan to help get your life back.
When you need to talk to someone, turn to Belmont.
Call 1-800-220-HELP (4357) or (215) 456-8000 to get the help you need.
Get more information on the following behavioral health disorders:
Mood / Affective Disorder