Memory

Clinically Review By: Corey Pitts, MA, LCMHCS, LPC, LCAS, CCS

What is the psychology of memory?

The study of memory is a branch of cognitive psychology focused on how people acquire, store, and retrieve information. Human memory can be divided into two main categories: short-term and long-term, both explored in the broader psychology of memory. 

Researchers further break down these memory types into:

• Sensory memory: the brief retention of sensory input: what a person sees, hears, or feels before it's processed further

• Short-term memory: the temporary holding of information for active use, often lasting only seconds to minutes without reinforcement

• Long-term memory: the storage of information over extended periods, divided into:

• Explicit memory: conscious recall of facts and events

• Implicit memory: unconscious recall of skills and habits, like knowing how to ride a bike without thinking through each step

Memory formation involves three key stages: encoding, storage, and retrieval. Each plays a distinct role in how an experience becomes a memory.

How do memory processes work?

The act of remembering something isn't a single event but a series of interconnected steps that turn experiences into something a person may recall later. Understanding those steps may shed light on why memory sometimes fails and what factors influence it.

Encoding and storage

Encoding is the first step in memory formation. It’s how the brain converts a lived experience into a memory. Not everything gets encoded. Attention, emotional significance, and repetition all play a role in determining what gets retained.

Once encoded, information undergoes memory storage across different brain regions. For example, the hippocampus plays a major part in forming new explicit memories.

On the other hand, emotional experiences may be stored differently due to limbic system involvement. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), emotional memory is recollection tied to events that elicit an emotional response. This aspect of the psychology of memory is why emotionally significant memories often feel more vivid.

Additionally, memories aren't always stored individually. People often rely on others to hold and retrieve certain information for them, a concept rooted in the broader psychology of memory. Examples of transactive memory are commonly discussed in reference to businesses and other types of organizations.

Retrieval and recall

Retrieval brings stored memories into conscious awareness, and it's more active than it might seem. Stress, sleep quality, and mental health may all affect how reliably a person recalls information. A person’s emotional state or trauma history may also affect recall, as memories tied to distressing experiences may sometimes be fragmented or difficult to access.

What are common memory disorders?

Memory disorders disrupt typical memory processes in ways that go beyond typical forgetfulness. Most people experience occasional lapses, but memory disorders involve more persistent disruptions to daily functioning. Commonly discussed examples include:

• Short-term memory loss: difficulty retaining new information, which may stem from neurological or psychological causes

• Trauma-related memory disruption: repressed or fragmented memories that may develop following overwhelming emotional experiences

• Alzheimer's disease and related dementias: progressive neurological conditions affecting memory, thinking, and behavior over time

There is a difference between age-related memory changes and clinical memory disorders. Some memory slowing is a common part of aging, while clinical disorders involve changes that significantly interfere with daily life. Those experiencing persistent or worsening memory concerns may benefit from consulting a medical provider.

Can therapy help with memory-related concerns?

Memory concerns may be unsettling, and the emotional weight of those concerns is real. While therapy isn't a treatment for memory disorders themselves, a licensed mental health professional may be able to help people work through the anxiety, distress, or uncertainty that often accompanies them. For people experiencing trauma-related memory disruption, evidence-based approaches may help with processing difficult memories and reducing their psychological impact over time.

BetterHelp connects adults with licensed therapists via video, phone, live chat, and messaging, offering an accessible option for support. For those dealing with memory-related anxiety or the emotional impact of a diagnosis, consistent support may make a meaningful difference.

How can individuals support their memory health?

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent memory decline, research points to several habits that may support cognitive health over time. Many of these tips may benefit overall mental and physical health as well.

• Regular physical activity may support cognitive health by increasing blood flow to the brain.

• Getting quality sleep may play a key role in memory consolidation, as the brain processes and stores information from the day during sleep.

• Mental stimulation, such as reading, solving puzzles, or learning new skills, may help maintain memory function over time.

• Social connection shows an association with better cognitive outcomes due to how meaningful relationships keep the brain engaged.

• Managing stress and anxiety through therapy or other support may benefit overall memory health, given the well-documented link between chronic stress and memory processes.

A licensed professional may help address concerns about memory and mental well-being, whether that means exploring the emotional impact of memory changes or developing strategies to support cognitive health. 

Frequently asked questions

Is the psychology of memory the same as neuroscience?

Not exactly. The psychology of memory focuses on behavior and mental processes, while neuroscience examines the brain's physical structures. The two fields often overlap but ask different questions.

Can stress affect memory?

Yes. Research in cognitive psychology suggests stress may interfere with both memory encoding and retrieval. Chronic stress, in particular, may affect the brain regions involved in memory formation.

Are memory disorders always permanent?

Not always. Some memory difficulties may be temporary and linked to treatable conditions such as depression, sleep deprivation, or medication side effects. Persistent or worsening short-term memory loss may be worth discussing with a medical provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

Can online therapy help someone experiencing memory-related anxiety?

Yes, a licensed therapist through a platform like BetterHelp may be able to help people work through the emotional impact of memory concerns, including anxiety or uncertainty related to memory changes or a diagnosis.

Is short-term memory loss always a sign of a serious condition?

Not necessarily. Short-term memory lapses may stem from stress, fatigue, or other non-serious factors. Persistent or worsening short-term memory loss is worth discussing with a medical provider to rule out any underlying conditions.