How can emotional trauma affect your memory?

While the effects of trauma can show up in different ways, it causes memory problems for many people. This is especially true among people diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — one of the most common mental health conditions. For some people with PTSD, memory loss can be temporary. But for others, it may be a lifelong experience that could require ongoing support. 

Can trauma cause memory loss?

Yes, trauma has been shown to cause memory loss. To illustrate how this happens, let’s explore how trauma might affect the different types of memory.

Semantic memory

Semantic memory is like storage for general information. It files away information like where you parked your car at the grocery store. When trauma occurs, it becomes more difficult for your brain to integrate all the details that create a memory. So if you parked your car at the grocery store and then something traumatic occurred, semantic memory problems could make it more difficult to recall the details (like where your car was parked or what someone said during the event). 

Episodic memory

Episodic memory houses your stories about yourself. However, trauma can make it more difficult to remember the details of personal events. For example, let’s say you got into a car crash. Your episodic memory would help you recall who was in the car with you, what you were doing that day, and who arrived on the scene to help. In the aftermath of trauma, you might be able to recall the accident, but those individual autobiographical details might become fuzzy.

Emotional memory

Emotional memory, as you might expect, consists of the emotions we attach to past experiences. For example, you might have felt angry, scared, or any number of emotions during that fender bender. But again, when trauma occurs and emotional memory is compromised, those emotions might become harder to recall. Additionally, trauma can elicit emotional memories at any time. Just driving past the site of the accident or seeing something that reminds you of it might make you feel like it’s happening all over again.

Procedural memory

Procedural memory is like your “autopilot.” It’s the memory that ensures that you can drive to work without having to look at directions, for example. Trauma can change how the brain organizes procedural memories. So, suddenly, things that once required almost no cognitive effort might feel difficult, which can be a frustrating experience. 

What connects trauma and memory loss?

The connection between trauma and memory loss can vary significantly. People can experience the same objectively traumatic event but respond very differently. Some people might experience temporary symptoms, like memory loss. But others might have ongoing symptoms that could indicate the presence of a trauma disorder like PTSD.

Experts are still working to understand why trauma leads to memory loss for some people. But it’s likely due, in part, to structural changes that occur in the brain. Research suggests that stress can damage the areas of the brain associated with memory. Trauma can impact a person’s ability to process and organize memories. It can also lead to heightened emotional responses and limit someone’s ability to think rationally. 

It’s also possible that memory avoidance could be a coping mechanism. People with PTSD may intentionally or unintentionally attempt to avoid traumatic memories due to the emotional pain they cause. 

How serious is memory loss from trauma?

Memory loss due to trauma can range from mild to severe, depending on the person. But in some cases, memory challenges can significantly impact a person’s ability to function. 

Memory loss can affect your ability to recall important information, perform to your full potential at work or school, and take care of yourself. This can lead to emotional distress that, in turn, can worsen your memory problems. Fortunately, memory impairments can be improved with the right support.

Can you fix memory problems from trauma?

If you’re experiencing memory loss due to traumatic experiences, know that you’re not alone and help is available. The effects of trauma can be managed with the right support. 

Trauma-related memory challenges can be addressed via the following therapies:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is one of the most commonly used treatments for trauma. It can help you identify and interrupt unhelpful thought patterns related to memories of traumatic events. Reframing your recollection of traumatic events can help alleviate PTSD symptoms like memory loss. 
• Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): During EMDR, people experience guided bilateral eye movements while reprocessing painful past events. In time, EMDR can reduce your sensitivity to traumatic memories. 
• Exposure therapy: In exposure therapy, people slowly and gradually engage with traumatic memories under the supervision of a trained provider. This can improve your distress tolerance, help you develop new meaning, and allow you to release unhelpful beliefs related to past events.
• Narrative therapy: This therapy helps trauma survivors reclaim their stories. In shifting your personal narrative, you can challenge your thoughts and feelings about past events and integrate traumatic memories into your life in more supportive ways.

Find care with Rula

Each day, traumatic events take place around the world, affecting people from all walks of life. For many, this can lead to challenging symptoms like memory loss and, in some cases, the onset of PTSD. Memory challenges can make it difficult to recall important details and interrupt your ability to function in daily life. But fortunately, with the right support, you can heal from the effects of trauma, strengthen your memory, and improve your mental health.

If you or someone you care about is living with trauma-induced memory loss, don’t hesitate to ask for help. At Rula, we believe that everyone deserves access to timely, affordable mental healthcare, no matter the issues they’re facing. So when you need support, we invite you to explore our therapist-matching program. With over 10,000 providers to choose from, you can find a therapist who takes your insurance and schedule your first live video appointment for as soon as tomorrow.

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