Thought and Cognition
Some conditions change how a person thinks, remembers, or makes sense of the world. This page gives a short overview of three of them.
Educational, not diagnostic. Supportive care starts with understanding.
It can feel like
How can family members help?
Changes in thinking can be hard to notice from the inside. Family and friends are often the first to see that something is different.
If you are worried about someone, stay calm, listen without arguing, and encourage them to see a professional. Offer to help make the call or come to the first visit.
If someone is in danger or cannot stay safe, call or text 988, or call 911.
Hearing or seeing things others do not
Trouble organizing thoughts
Changes in memory or attention
Difficulty with daily tasks that used to be easy
Pulling away from friends and family
Feeling confused or disoriented
Three areas of thought and cognition
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a complex brain disorder that can affect how a person thinks, feels, and perceives the world. Experiences may include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, or difficulty with motivation and daily functioning. We use person-first language: a person living with schizophrenia. Symptoms and experiences vary widely, and with the right support, people can live meaningful, fulfilling lives.
Neurocognitive disorders
Neurocognitive disorders involve changes in cognitive function, such as memory, attention, language, problem-solving, or orientation, that affect daily life. These changes may result from injury, illness, or neurodegenerative conditions. They may be mild or major, temporary or progressive. Early understanding and support can improve quality of life, and strengths and abilities remain important.
Intellectual developmental disorders
Intellectual developmental disorders are characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors that occur during the developmental period. Every person has unique strengths, needs, and potential. Support focuses on growth, inclusion, and independence. Everyone deserves respect, access, and opportunity.