In a new study with mice, Northwestern Medicine scientists have discovered for the first time the mechanism by which state-dependent learning renders stressful fear-related memories consciously inaccessible. Related story: Stimulation excites the brain to form better memories Thus, memories formed in a particular mood, arousal or drug-induced state can best be retrieved when the brain is back in that state. But eventually those suppressed memories can cause debilitating psychological problems, such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder or dissociative disorders.Ī process known as state-dependent learning is believed to contribute to the formation of memories that are inaccessible to normal consciousness. Some stressful experiences - such as chronic childhood abuse - are so overwhelming and traumatic, the memories hide like a shadow in the brain.Īt first, hidden memories that can’t be consciously accessed may protect the individual from the emotional pain of recalling the event.
0 kommentar(er)
