Power Outages and the Mind: Strategies to Prevent Memory Lapses
Partying Hard, Harder Than You Thought:
So, you're out with your mates, knocking back the booze and perhaps a brew or two from the local watering hole. But before you know it, you wake up feeling hazy, your phone is nowhere to be found, and you can't seem to recall how the night ended. Welcome to the realm of blackouts and brownouts!
Hold up, before we dive into this, let's make one thing clear: we're not your parents, but we're here to offer some insights on what's going on when you're binge-drinking.
What's in a Blackout or Brownout?
Blackouts, as you might suspect, involve total memory loss due to your brain's inability to record new memories during a specific period. Brownouts, on the other hand, are partial memory loss experiences. With a brownout, you might remember some details, but the finer aspects of the night may remain a blur.
"Drink too much, and the hippocampus - the memory center of your brain - might start wobbling like a sailor on a stormy sea," explains Dr. David Streem, a psychiatrist specializing in addiction.
More Than Just Booze: Causes of Blackouts and Brownouts
It's not just booze that can knock out your memory. Substance misuse, like hypnotics or sedatives, can also contribute to memory loss. For instance, Rohypnol, a potent sedative, is notorious for causing blackouts or brownouts.
Other medical conditions, such as traumatic brain injuries, strokes, psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even chronic traumatic encephalopathy, can also lead to memory loss.
Passing Out or Blacked Out?
Passing out and blackouts are not the same thing. When you pass out or faint, you experience a temporary loss of consciousness. On the other hand, a blackout occurs when you're still conscious but cannot code new memories due to intoxication.
How Much is Too Much?
The quantity of booze needed to trigger a blackout varies from person to person, depending on factors like age, gender, weight, metabolism, and genetic variations. However, it's safe to say that it usually involves consuming more than the legal blood alcohol limit. So, even if you've got a "designated driver" badge, keep a tab on your drinks.
Consequences of Blackouts and Brownouts
Besides the obvious inconvenience, blackouts and brownouts put you at risk for accidents, injuries, and unwanted encounters. A passed-out person might throw up while sleeping, increasing the risk of choking or suffocating. That's why it's crucial to know your limits and stay safe.
Can You Escape the Blackout?
A blackout ends when your body has absorbed the alcohol and your brain can start making new memories again. Rest, hydration, and understanding your limits can help manage the booze's effects. But, if you do experience a blackout, try to piece together the evening's events and assess any potential injuries or signs of foul play.
If you think you've been injured, sexually or physically assaulted, seek medical attention immediately and report the incident to the police.
Tips to Stay Sober(ish)
- Drink in moderation
- Eat before you drink
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid mixing substances
- Keep track of your alcohol intake
- Seek support if needed
And remember, the goal isn't to eliminate all memory of the night – it's to ensure you remember the good times, the bad times, and everything in between. Cheers to that!
Sources:[1] National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)[2] American Psychological Association (APA)[3] Mayo Clinic
- Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to memory loss, known as blackouts or brownouts, which can impact one's health-and-wellness, particularly mental-health.
- Substances other than alcohol, such as hypnotics, sedatives, and certain medications, can also cause memory loss, alongside medical conditions like trauma, strokes, and PTSD.
