Sometimes, people claim they forget names easily, but would remember a face. But what if you can’t recognize someone’s face, even if you know them well? Recently, there is attention around a neurological disorder called prosopagnosia or ‘face blindness.’ The disorder makes it difficult for someone to recognize faces. According to the National Health Service, prosopagnosia impacts about one in 50 people.
Those with prosopagnosia may have trouble not only recognizing people’s faces but recognizing their own face in the mirror. They may find it hard to follow the plot of films because they have trouble distinguishing characters and may not recognize their own family or friends. Some even have difficulties distinguishing objects like cars.
Not recognizing people or places has led some with the disorder to experience feelings of anxiety and depression. They’re often worried that people will think of them as rude, standoffish or cold.
Prosopagnosia is typically developed one of two ways. The first — developmental prosopagnosia — according to the Prosopagnosia Research Center, is a result of neurodevelopmental impairments that prevent the brain from developing the ability to recognize faces. Developmental prosopagnosia can be hereditary and can sometimes go unnoticed in those who have it because they were born with the disorder.
The second type is acquired prosopagnosia, which is caused by head trauma, degenerative illness or stroke. This form is typically noticeable because the patient who once had the ability to recognize faces now realizes they no longer have that ability.
At present, there is no known treatment for prosopagnosia, but there is research underway. There are ways those with prosopagnosia can recognize someone. They can memorize their hair color, their voice and even the way they walk or stand.
