Recently I have been  recovering from the flu and have been watching a few movies and art programs. I have never seen so many ads by experts for quick fixes from weight loss to health issues to memory loss. I was intrigued by one video saying all I had to do was pull my earlobes for 30 seconds a night and my memory would not only come back it would be better than when I was 20. I must admit after a week of pulling my earlobes they are drooping more than my breasts!! I still can’t find my phone or remember names.

Why does a quick fix sound so enticing even though we may be sceptical! I think a quick easy fix sounds easy and what do we have to lose. Well, except for the shape of my earlobes!! People have suggested so many remedies for my lack of sleep and others offer ideas for my bipolar which they all assure me worked for their sister or cousin.

There are some advertised products promoting a fix for anything related to memory loss that can be dangerous. Some examples of dietary supplements which show no evidence of treating memory loss include well known herbs, vitamins etc. I decided not to put the list here as some people will find these herbs to help them.

We can understand why people who desperately want a cure for a disease that is currently not curable will look to the internet for promises. Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias create a long, sad, expensive journey for elders and their families.

Why quick fixes often don’t help mental health. Quick fixes provide a temporary relief for short term issues. The underlying reasons are still there.

Have you ever been tempted to try a quick fix that you have seen online or read in a book or been told by someone? Can you share how it worked and how you felt.

Leah  

A Moodscope member