The neuropsychologist spoke about the influence of emotions and sleep on long-term memory

Modern science is increasingly questioning the usual ideas about how memory works. Previously, sleep and emotions were considered key factors, but a new study by scientists from Merrimack College (USA) shows that a conscious mindset can play a crucial role. Psychologist and neuropsychologist Maria Todorova told Izvestia on October 8 about what is behind this effect and how to use it in life.

"Modern data really confirms that our memory is not a passive process, but a dynamic system that can be partially controlled. The conscious mindset activates the so—called executive functions of the brain: attention, control, and intrinsic motivation," the neuropsychologist said.

As she noted, when a person gives himself a clear instruction to "remember", the prefrontal cortex is activated, which strengthens connections with the hippocampus, responsible for memory consolidation. According to the expert, a simple internal command "I want to understand and remember this" becomes a tool for building the necessary neural connections. This approach helps not only in teaching, but also in cognitive therapy, where it is important for the patient to consciously process the experience.

A Merrimack College study published in Medical Xpress showed that volunteers were better at remembering words that they were directly asked to remember, regardless of whether they slept between sessions or not. The authors note that the total amount of sleep does not affect the quality of memory — its structure and phases are much more important.

The puzzle has formed: how to keep a phenomenal memory until old age

Doctors have told us which exercises help reduce the risk of dementia.

"As for sleep, it is important to understand that we are not talking about the fact that sleep has ceased to be meaningful. Sleep is still extremely important for recovery, emotion regulation, processing of experience, and for the health of the nervous system as a whole. Perhaps the new study clarifies not the role of sleep in principle, but rather the relationship between its duration and the amount of information stored. That is, the quality of sleep and its phases (especially slow sleep and REM) remain crucial, and the number of hours is not always directly proportional to memory efficiency," Todorova noted.

In addition, the discovery expands the possibilities of applied neuropsychology and learning. Conscious instructions help the brain prioritize what is important to remember and what can be released. This can become a new tool for educators, students, and specialists working with memory in clinical practice.

Irina Krashkina, a psychotherapist at JSC "Medicine" (Academician Roitberg Clinic), told Izvestia on October 5 that autumn brings not only cold weather and short days, but also a decrease in cognitive activity. Many people report that it is more difficult for them to concentrate, and they have problems with memory, concentration, and analytical thinking. The causes of this phenomenon are related to both physiological and psychoemotional factors.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.