HAVE you ever felt like your memory isn’t as sharp as it used to be, or found yourself struggling to focus or switch between tasks?
Maybe you have noticed it’s harder to follow conversations or plan things out like before.
If these challenges sound familiar, it might be time to consider seeing a neuropsychologist.
Neuropsychologists are the detectives of the psychology world.
They specialise in understanding how the brain and behaviour are connected.
Imagine your brain is like a complicated highway system.
Neuropsychologists figure out where the traffic jams are, why they are happening, and how they are affecting your daily life.
They work closely with people who have faced a variety of challenges, from those born with conditions like autism or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder to those who have suffered injuries or illnesses that affect the brain such as strokes, brain tumours or dementia.
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When you visit a neuropsychologist, they will guide you through a series of tests.
These are not tests you can pass or fail but are designed to measure how well different parts of your brain are working.
You might solve some puzzles, answer questions, or use blocks or computers for tasks that seem simple but reveal a lot about how your brain processes information.
These tests help pinpoint the specific areas where you are having trouble, which is crucial in planning the best treatment or strategies to help you manage or overcome these challenges.
The field of neuropsychology in Zimbabwe is growing, bringing new opportunities for specialised care.
In 2021, Zimbabwe registered its first neuropsychologist, Kudzai Nyakusendwa, and the University of Zimbabwe began offering a degree in this field.
These developments mean that more people can now access care that understands and integrates their cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
It is a big step forward because it opens up previously scarce and locally unavailable services, helping to ensure that neuropsychological care is more relevant and accessible to everyone.
Even if you are not ready to see a neuropsychologist, there are simple things you can do everyday to keep your mind sharp.
Taking short breaks throughout your day can greatly benefit your mental health and cognitive abilities.
Practising deep breathing for a few minutes, stretching or taking a brief walk can refresh your mind and improve both focus and creativity.
Short breaks help to mentally reset and can make you more productive when you return to your tasks.
Setting aside time to let your thoughts drift freely can be surprisingly beneficial.
This practice, often referred to as “mind-wandering”, can enhance creativity and problem-solving.
Allowing your mind to wander can lead to moments of insight and innovation, similar to anecdotes about great thinkers like Albert Einstein and Steve Jobs, who embraced periods of solitude and reflection.
Everyday, people make numerous small decisions that, although seemingly minor, can deplete mental energy, leaving less for more critical decisions.
To combat this, try simplifying your daily choices.
For instance, choosing your meals for the week or selecting your outfits in advance are practical steps you can take to minimise decision fatigue, thus preserving your mental energy for more significant decisions.
The brain tends to be most alert and rested after a good night’s sleep.
Therefore, it is beneficial to schedule the most demanding tasks for the first part of the day.
Tackling challenging tasks in the morning ensures you address them when your cognitive abilities are at their peak.
Understanding the role of neuropsychologists and leveraging their expertise can significantly improve your quality of life if you are dealing with brain-related challenges.
It is essential to ensure that any neuropsychologist you consult is registered with the Allied Health Council of Zimbabwe to guarantee that you receive competent and professional care.
- Kudzai Nyakusendwa is a registered and Zimbabwe’s first neuropsychologist. She writes here in her personal capacity
