June Is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

Each June, we spotlight Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month—a critical opportunity to educate ourselves and our communities about the signs, risks, and importance of early detection when it comes to brain health. Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t always show up in obvious ways at first, and unfortunately, early symptoms are often mistaken for stress, depression, or anxiety.

Subtle changes—like difficulty finding words, short-term memory lapses, disorientation, or mood swings—can begin years before a diagnosis. Because these symptoms often mimic common mental health concerns, it’s easy for families to overlook or misattribute them. That’s why both medical and mental health screenings are essential. Early screening supports early intervention, which is key in slowing disease progression and improving quality of life.

Some key signs to watch for include:

• Repeatedly asking the same questions
• Difficulty following conversations or stories
• Trouble with planning or problem-solving
• Getting lost in familiar places
• Withdrawal from work or social activities
• Personality changes or increased confusion

Whether you’re concerned about yourself or a loved one, don’t wait. Schedule a check-up, consult with your primary care provider, and consider reaching out to a mental health professional. The earlier we intervene, the better we can support brain health and overall well-being.

National Resources for Support and Information:

• Alzheimer’s Association
  Offers comprehensive resources, including a 24/7 helpline, support groups, and educational materials.
  Website: www.alz.org | Helpline: 800-272-3900​
• Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)
  Provides caregiver support, memory screenings, and educational programs.
  Website: www.alzfdn.org | Helpline: 866-232-8484​
• Alzheimers.gov
  A federal resource offering information on Alzheimer’s and related dementias, including how to find local services.
  Website: www.alzheimers.gov​Alzheimers.gov+2National Institute on Aging+2Alzheimers.gov+2

References:

1. Alzheimer’s Association. (n.d.). 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Retrieved from https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs​Yahoo Creators+3Alzheimer’s Association+3Alzheimer’s Association+3
2. Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. (n.d.). Caregiving Resources. Retrieved from https://alzfdn.org/caregiving-resources/​Wikipedia+2Alzheimer’s Foundation of America+2Alzheimer’s Foundation of America+2
3. Alzheimers.gov. (n.d.). Find Local Services. Retrieved from https://www.alzheimers.gov/life-with-dementia/find-local-services​Alzheimers.gov+2Alzheimers.gov+2MedlinePlus+2
4. Family Caregiver Alliance. (n.d.). National Center on Caregiving. Retrieved from https://www.caregiver.org​
5. BrightFocus Foundation. (n.d.). Alzheimer’s Disease Research. Retrieved from https://www.brightfocus.org/alzheimers​

Be well, friends,
Dr. Magda Demerritt, LCSW-QS
VP of Operations, CEATT, Inc.