What you are describing is known as "aphantasia." Aphantasia is a phenomenon where individuals have difficulty or a complete inability to visualize mental images in their mind's eye. People with aphantasia cannot conjure up images, even simple ones, voluntarily. However, they can still recognize or remember the details of visual experiences from their memory, such as recalling the colors of objects or how things looked.
It's important to note that aphantasia exists on a spectrum, and people may experience it to varying degrees. Some individuals have a complete lack of mental imagery, while others might have partial visualization ability.
The reason behind aphantasia is not entirely understood, and research on this topic is relatively recent. Some theories suggest that it might be related to differences in brain structure or neural pathways responsible for visualization. However, more research is needed to fully understand the neurological basis of aphantasia.
Aphantasia doesn't indicate a cognitive deficit or a mental health issue. It's simply a variation in how the mind processes and accesses visual information. People with aphantasia often develop compensatory strategies to navigate the world effectively, such as relying on other senses or using verbal descriptions.
If you find that aphantasia significantly affects your life or causes distress, you may consider speaking with a mental health professional or neuropsychologist. They can provide guidance and support, helping you understand and manage any challenges that may arise from this unique aspect of your mind's functioning.