I'm trying to learn programming but my brain keeps freezing on basic data structures and algorithms, what's going on and how can I overcome this?

I totally understand where you're coming from, and yeah, it's super frustrating when you hit a wall like that. I've been there too, and I think I've figured out what's going on - it's not that you're not cut out for programming, it's just that these concepts can be tough to grasp at first, especially if you're new to programming.

Here's what I think might be happening: when you're working on a problem and you get stuck, it's easy to get discouraged and feel like you're not getting it. But the thing is, you're not alone, and lots of people struggle with this stuff. Even experienced programmers have to revisit these basics sometimes. So, the first thing to do is to give yourself permission to take a step back and revisit the fundamentals - don't be afraid to go back to the basics and practice, practice, practice.

I'd also recommend trying a different approach to learning these concepts. Sometimes, it's not just about reading about them or watching tutorials, but actually implementing them in code. Try writing a simple program that uses a data structure or algorithm you're struggling with - it might seem silly, but it really helps solidify the concepts in your brain. And don't worry if your code isn't perfect at first - the goal is to get the basics down, not to write perfect code.

Lastly, I'd say try to be kind to yourself and don't give up. Learning programming takes time and patience, and it's normal to hit speed bumps along the way. You got this, and with persistence and practice, you'll get the hang of it!