I think MG neck has a point. I just finished a good book, and the theme of it was "change your thinking" It isn't easy, but it is the best way to cope with things that bother us. Try to pick up a book when those thoughts happen, and know you are expanding your mind, not shrinking it with reading. I think filling up those worries with something educational would make up for any shrinking you think is going on. I am 61, suppose to be in decline mentally, but for me it isn't happening. I refuse to give in and say as you age, the mind absorbs less. I have read physics the last year, and low and behold I understand it. How come I didn't do that in High school? I think you have a good brain, and it certainly is capabable of expansion. It is up to you Matt, on what you want to fill your mind with. We all care about you. We are in your corner, and want you to feel good about yourself. ginnie