I’ve had brain fog for a few years. Sometimes I barely notice it. Sometimes I can’t remember the first part of my sentence. I’ve blamed it on long COVID, inflammation, or the lingering impact of cancer treatment, but one thing I’ve ignored is pain.
Just being in pain makes it hard to think clearly.
In research experiments, people in pain struggle more with complex tasks that require memory, attention, and decision-making. Basically, pain pulls mental resources away from whatever you’re trying to do. Which includes social interactions… conversations, coordinating activities, that sort of thing.
When I can’t find the right word or my thought process just stops cold, often I’m in a world of pain, and all my mental energy is centered around coping with it. I’m sure others here can relate.
So, bottom line, go easy on yourself. If you stumble over words like me, don’t sweat it. You have enough to worry about. Say what you can. Communicate when you’re up for it. There are other ways to create connection that don’t require words.
