tldr; I want to know peoples opinions on how seriously I may have damaged my brain. Mods: This is not a "binging is normal" post. This is the accepted, as the mods have said is fine, "I fucked up in the past, don't do this shit, get help" post.

I am a retired addict in regards to DXM. My doses used to involve frequent 2nd,3rd,and 4th plat trips- we're talking daily to almost daily, mostly to help ignore the stressers of my life. This has been going on from maybe middle october to a couple weeks ago, maybe 8 bottles in total over that time. (There was a break between maybe middle december to Jan 14) Of course, I've made the decision to completely quit the substance, hopefully before it ruined my life, as it has others who refuse to acknowledge the dangers of this substance, and ignore harm reduction rules- something which is a serious problem with many in this community. I unfortunately take responsibility for having before been a part of the problem.

My worry is this: the frequent use has permanently degraded my vocabulary, learning ability, short and long term memory, and possibly even IQ/cognitive intelligence. Here are some of the things I've noticed: I went to a steakhouse with a family member, something important to us, and hardly remembered the other 2 times we had gone- when we did, it was an important occasion. I only remembered one of the visits when it was brought up, and it was very faint. Moreover, my short term memory has been failing, frequently forgetting where I've placed everyday items around the home. What has led me to make this post, however, is my prized possession: my vocabulary. I have always had a very developed vocabulary, and its been one of those things about myself that gives me the self esteem needed to go throughout my life. I noticed recently that there had been many times I wanted to use a word, but then stopped and realized I couldn't put my finger on it, having to look up the word again. This seriously worries me, as it could mean I've essentially turned myself into an idiot.

Thoughts? Could this duration of DXM use really have such major effects, ones which I will have to live with forever? Or, are these mostly temporary side effects of the DXM use, and with a complete detox from the substance I may be able to at least heal a majority of my brain?

P.S: Stay safe guys. Follow harm reduction guidelines, and the plateau-week rule: 1st plat, 1 week break, 2nd plat, 2 week break, etc. It's not worth it.