Bipolar Memory Problems

Problems with memory impairment are common with bipolar disorder. There are many factors that contribute to the memory problems, such as side effects from medications and the psychological state of mind. Both long- and short-term memory can be affected at different times when this condition is not stabilized.

Medication Side Effects

• Many of the medications that are prescribed for bipolar disorder may contribute to memory problems. Lithium is one of the more commonly used drugs for this condition and one of its side effects is memory impairment. Benzodiazepines are often prescribed to treat the anxiety symptoms that may occur with this diagnosis. They can also impair memory and are very sedating, which can present confusion around remembering things.

Manic Phase

• When in a manic phase of bipolar disorder, your memory can be affected greatly. The thought process is extremely out of balance and many people remember very little while in the height of a manic state. Short-term memory impairment is very common after the episode has stabilized with many patients not remembering much of the occasion.

Psychotic Phase

• Bipolar disorder can produce a state of psychosis in some people. The manic stage that persists for too long without treatment can produce symptoms of hearing and seeing things. This psychotic state can impair memory to the extremes of not recognizing family members and not being able to distinguish right from wrong. This state can affect both long-term and short-term memory.

Depressive Phase

• The depressive state that comes with the bipolar disorder can also cause memory problems. It is very common for a person in this state to forget appointments or forget to do household chores. The last time the person showered or changed clothes may also be forgotten. This type of short-term memory impairment is common when someone is deep in depression.

Noncompliance of Medication

• One of the more serious problems with someone not stabilized in their bipolar disorder is that the medication regimen is usually not followed correctly. It is common for people in the manic, depressive or psychotic state to not be taking their medication correctly due to memory impairment. They forget to take the drugs or the importance of taking their drugs is forgotten. This adds to the problem of stabilization of their disorder.