What could be wrong with my brain / memory?

Question

I am 27 years old, mother of three children (5, 3 and 1 1/2). For the past 4 months I have been having these strange things happening:

Having a hard time remembering things (which I attribute to too many kids screaming and fighting all the time)

I will say things to people and they go, "you just said this______" and I will say, "No, I said this _______" and I really thought I said what I thought I said, but I didn't.

I have a hard time getting out simple words in everyday conversation. For example I wanted my daughter to lay down on her pillow and I said, "Lay down on your couch." I just couldn't think of the word "pillow" at the time.

Even in typing, I will repeatedly type the wrong thing thinking that I am typing the right letters.

And in phone dialing, I know the number I want to push, but I push something else instead (I always have nightmares about this same thing too, I try to dial a simple phone number and it takes me multiple tries to get it right).

Please help!

Answer 1

You have too much on your plate right now. Everything you mentioned can be attributed to stress. I think you need to get a basysitter in more often and go out with friends, or just go for a walk in the park by yourself to rejuvenate. If you have the money, could you hire a housekeeper part-time? One evening, after the children are in bed, make yourself a cup of tea (or coffee) and figure out what you can do for yourself. Is there a family agency you could call? Do you have a sister who could help you out on a regular basis? A neighbour or a friend, or your mother? Think of things you are doing that don't need to be done as often. Try and cut down your workload or ways of becoming more organized.

I know it's hectic right now. But I guarantee it will get better in time. Right now, think of ways you can get some help and some time for yourself.

Answer 2

Maybe you had latent ADD that is becoming more noticeable because of all that you have to stressfully juggle at this time in your life. You can't think straight because of OVERLOAD.

Answer 3

I agree with the above about stress. Also might want to consider sleep, which is closely correlated with memory and anti-correlated with having children. Getting regular sleep helps tremendously with memory. If these problems persist, it wouldn't hurt to get a neurological exam - perhaps they are indications of a biological issue.

Answer 4

all these things happen to me too... im 22 with 2 little boys.. i think its just stress.. lack of concentration.. i know with me im always thinking about what comes next, so like.. ill be doing the dishes not concentraiting on that but thinking about getting the kids lunch ready.. then ill be getting lunches ready and ill be thinking about getting the washing done.. if that makes sense??

the dream thing really freaks me out.. i often dream that im in trouble and i need to dial 000 or whatever.. but i never can i always press other numbers.. its really scary!

maybe you need to take more time for yourself, doing quiet and relaxing things.. maybe try some yoga??

good luck with it, i hope you feel better soon!