Thought Poverty

[automan_224]

For the last number of years Ive had what could be described as a thought disorder like a form of thought poverty.My mind feels numb and devoid of thoughts.Any thoughts I do have lack richnes and variety.As a result I have problems communicating verbally and in writing.This has gotten worse and is beginning to affect me socially and in work.I usually find it difficult to talk as a result of being unable to think of something to say or to talk without confusing or stumbling with words.Even on my own I find it difficult to talk to myself or reflect on my thoughts simply because there are no thoughts there.My mind just feels permanently empty.The only condition I could find which matched this was Alogia.This is:

[springtime1960]

A related discussion, Alogia was started.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-SH]

First of all, keep in mind that I am unable to diagnose you because I am unable to examine you, this forum is for educational purposes. The symptoms you describe are most consistent with depression.  The classic symptoms of depression are of sleep disorder, anhedonia (not taking pleasure in your activities), feeling of guilt, decreased energy, problems concentrating, changes in appetite, and thoughts of suicide.  However, depression can present as more minor symptoms such as lack of "feeling like yourself", and/or memory/cognitive problems.  I would recommend that you have your neurologist order formal neuro-psych testing.  This can help differentiate between an aphasia (cognitive speech problem) and depression.  I would also recommend a trial on a SSRI (such as Lexapro 10mg daily).  Remember you do not have to "feel depressed" to be suffering from the effects of depression.  If your Neuro-psych testing reveals signs of an aphasia, I would recommend an MRI of your brain.  I hope this has been helpful.

[flyin2006]

Have you given any thought to depression? You seem to have fine thought processes based upon your letter. I have had two major depressions ( many years ago ) and a major depression will have this feature often.