Symptom 9. Mood and Personality Changes: A Shift in the Inner World
We all have our good days and bad days. But individuals with aMCI may experience persistent and notable changes in mood and personality. This isn’t about the occasional mood swing, but a significant change in their typical demeanor. They may become confused, suspicious, depressed, anxious, or fearful.
Imagine waking up and feeling like a different person, not recognizing the reflection in the mirror. It’s as if the core essence of who you are has shifted, creating an inner chaos that mirrors the cognitive changes you are experiencing.
Such changes could be linked to the overall frustration and confusion that individuals with aMCI often experience. The cognitive challenges they face daily can lead to feelings of irritability, anxiousness, or apathy.
This symptom points to the profound impact of aMCI beyond cognitive function, permeating the very core of an individual’s personality. As such, it underscores the need for comprehensive approaches in managing aMCI that go beyond improving cognitive symptoms alone.
It’s essential to note that this isn’t about the occasional mood swing or period of irritability. Consistent changes in mood and personality may signal aMCI and warrant further investigation. (9)
