mental confusion (often simply called confusion) is a symptom. people suffering from it have problems finding their way around in the world. they have troubles remembering who they are, where they are, or what time (or day of the week) it is. additionally, they may have trouble remembering things or memorizing new things. this may be linked to problems focusing their attention. confusion can also be a sign of someone being sick with various illnesses when it's coupled with things like fever, chills, or exhaustion.