Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Memory issues, 10+ yrs, no improvement
I’ve had significant memory and cognitive issues for 10+ years (poor recall, weak working memory, difficulty articulating). Sleep stabilization and multiple antidepressants (Venlafaxine, Fluoxetine, Fluvoxamine, Vortioxetine) gave no benefit.
Could this be adult ADHD or executive dysfunction? If not, what evidence-based options remain for improving cognition?
Answers (7)
Get your queries answered instantly with Care AI FREE
20000+ health queries resolved in last month
I want to acknowledge how much courage it takes to voice these struggles. Often, we treat mental health as a matter of 'willpower,' but as a psychiatrist, I can tell you that what you are experiencing has a real biological and neurological basis.
Your brain, like any other organ, can sometimes struggle to maintain balance under stress. Seeking treatment isn't a sign of failure; it’s a proactive medical decision to regain your quality of life. We can work together to understand the 'why' behind these feelings and find a structured path back to your baseline. You don't have to navigate this alone.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced psychiatrist online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
+193
"Hi there, I understand that seeking help can feel overwhelming, but you’ve already taken the first brave step. I can guide you with a clear treatment plan tailored just for you, so you can feel better and regain control over your life. You can reach me directly on WhatsApp for quick support on seven zero eight two zero two two zero six two."
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Detailed evaluation of origin,duration and progression is required to know the cause and course of symptoms
Next Steps
Consult psychiatrist for better evaluation
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
A definite diagnosis cannot be made based on symptoms alone. Conditions such as adult ADHD, executive dysfunction, mood or anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, or medical causes can present with similar cognitive complaints.
A thorough clinical evaluation is essential, including:
Detailed developmental and psychiatric history
Assessment of attention and executive functioning
Evaluation for mood, anxiety, sleep, and substance-related disorders
Neuropsychological testing when indicated
Relevant medical investigations (e.g., thyroid function, vitamin B12)
Only after a comprehensive assessment can a diagnosis be established and evidence-based treatment options be appropriately recommended.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
First we need to distinguish whether the issue lies in cognition or attention or both.
rule out it isn't an organic disorder or effects of drugs or alcohol. Since you have already tried one too many drugs.. my suggestion will be to try mindfulness based CBT.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Dr. Rupali Mohbe (PhD)
Psychologist
26 yrs exp
Ahmedabad
Long-standing difficulty with recall, attention, and verbal expression can arise from several causes. Sometimes it reflects attention regulation or executive functioning differences, such as adult ADHD. In other cases, chronic anxiety, low mood, prolonged stress, or poor sleep over the years can quietly affect working memory and mental clarity. When antidepressants and sleep correction have not improved cognition, it becomes important to reassess rather than assume one single cause. The first step is clarity, not guessing.
Next Steps
Constructive next steps may include:
- Seeking a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation specifically focused on adult ADHD and executive functioning
- Undergoing a formal psychological or neuropsychological assessment, which can objectively measure attention, memory, and processing speed
- Consulting a mental health professional, especially a therapist, to address possible cognitive avoidance patterns, stress load, or long-term anxiety that may be contributing
- Reviewing lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, screen exposure, and sleep consistency, as these strongly affect cognition
- Considering targeted interventions if ADHD is confirmed, including behavioural strategies and, where appropriate, medication
- Engaging in structured cognitive training and task-planning techniques to strengthen working memory and organization skills
Health Tips
In most cases, cognitive concerns like these are not permanent loss of ability but reflect patterns that can improve with accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment. A structured assessment will provide clearer direction and more evidence-based options going forward. To know more about this, you can always reach out for help to us at nine-five-two-two-five-five-five-seven-zero-three.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Dr. Durganjali B
Psychiatrist
9 yrs exp
Mumbai
Glad that you reached out. To make a diagnosis will need detailed interview about current and past history. Kindly consult a psychiatrist for proper diagnosis and advice
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Articles you may like
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The question asked on this page is a free question. You can ask a free health question by downloading the Practo app.
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.