Title: Effects of Stress on Memory and the Hippocampus | Sanesco Health
Headings: Effects of Stress on Memory and the Hippocampus
Effects of Stress on Memory and the Hippocampus
Stress and the HPA Axis
Effects of Stress on the Hippocampus
Effects of Stress on Memory and Damage to the Hippocampus
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Sophie Thompson
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Content: Cortisol released during a stress response has also been shown to have negative effects on memory (specifically damaging contextual memory), meaning memories may be formed but their context is ambiguous. 15
For example, repeated stressful stimuli from a traumatic situation (such as combat) can cause severe anxiety and PTSD where one can recall and relive the general state of fear, but not the details of the situation that provoked fear. Stress in early childhood is also associated with diminished nerve function and reduced capacity for memorizing information. 16
It is possible to restore hippocampus function and improve memory through lifestyle modifications and various restorative therapies for HPA axis balance. 17 Adaptogens are herbal extracts which can muffle the effects of both overactive and underactive stress responses. 18 Rhodiola is an example of an adaptogen shown to reduce cortisol levels and promote higher tolerance to stress effects. 19
If you have trouble with memory, consider examining possible imbalances in your HPA axis, supplementing with adaptogens such as Rhodiola, Ashwagandha, or Tulsi, and addressing lifestyle factors that may be increasing your stress level. Resources
Joëls, M., & Baram, T. Z. (2009). The neuro-symphony of stress. Nature Reviews.