Image: Rory Bristol
My memory is getting worse, but I’m not sure what to do for that. More talks with my doctors, therapist, and Jenny. More adjustments. Possibly more meds, possibly fewer meds. It’s inconvenient, but it’s helping me get into some great habits.
Cons:
- Jenny has to remind me of stuff. All day long. It’s frustrating for her.
- I have a harder time getting everything done, because I won’t remember it in 15 minutes.
- I regularly walk into another room and forget why I’m there. Like, eight or nine times per day.
- I make minor commitments and lose track of them.
- All this makes me fucking insane and sad.
- I forget to take my medicine.
Pros:
- I’ve developed better habits regarding checking behind myself to make sure I took my medicine or that something is done right.
- I’m learning to make lists, leave myself notes, and communicate more clearly.
- People know I really mean it when I compliment a dress or shirt, because I’ll have commented in the past.
- It’s easier to sit down and commit to the work I’m doing, because my to-do list isn’t hovering anxiously in the front of my head.
- It’s easy as hell to keep secrets and be discreet, because I forget the thing I’m supposed to not talk about.
- I make a great confidant, because I can genuinely listen without judging that person by the conversation later.
It’s both good and bad. It’s inconvenient, and it’s a case of changing my life to address side effects of medication, but I think it’s worth it. It’s worth it to have reduced anxiety. It’s worth it to have more structure. It’s worth it because I am surrounded by people who understand.