Beyond Trauma: How PTSD Can Affect Your Attention and Memory

If you ask most people to describe what impact PTSD has on you many will reply that it is primarily a response where you get flashbacks to a traumatic event. That is an accurate depiction, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. It has also been shown that PTSD can have a negative impact on your attention and memory.

A good starting point when talking about this recognized condition would be to point out that it is not always that clear whether you are actually experiencing PTSD symptoms. If you search do I have PTSD test, for instance, you will be able to arrange to confirm whether this is the case.

When it comes to the link between PTSD and learning difficulties, here are some key points to consider.

The association between PTSD and learning difficulties

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that typically produces recognized symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance, and intrusive thoughts. It has also been shown that the condition can also create learning problems as a result of its impact on your attention span and ability to memorize information.

What impact does it have on your memory?

PTSD can have a detrimental impact on your memory in a number of key areas.

Your verbal memory can be impacted, which means you could struggle to remember words. 

You might discover that facts and other important information such as key dates are difficult to recall or retain.

Your memory can also be impacted in a way that makes it difficult to remember past events. This is particularly the case with regard to recalling traumatic events from the past.

How does PTSD impact your levels of attention

It has also been shown that PTSD can be a contributory factor when it comes to having problems with attention.

PTSD sufferers can experience noticeable difficulty concentrating and can often be too easily distracted. These combined issues make it harder to pay attention when trying to complete tasks.

Difficulty with concentration levels is now considered to be one of the most common symptoms of PTSD. It has also been noted that someone with a diagnosed PTSD condition can regularly experience issues with reading as a result of their struggles with attention and concentration.

What other known issues can be experienced as a result of PTSD? 

Someone with PTSD is also more likely to experience difficulties with problem-solving tasks. This also stems from attention and memory problems.

PTSD sufferers tend to demonstrate worse problem-solving skills than average.

There is also a known problem with regard to what is known as executive functioning. This term describes the set of mental skills needed to be able to plan and manage tasks. 

Why does PTSD create these problems?

Someone with PTSD is more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression. The reason for this is that when you are experiencing high levels of anxiety it can impact your ability to retain information into your memory.

You can also experience sleep problems with PTSD. Lack of sleep will also have an impact on your attention and memory levels.

The solution to this particular issue is to seek professional help to address your PTSD symptoms. This should improve other aspects such as memory and attention as your condition responds to treatment.