Sometimes it seems that the number of times we want to forget an old sorrow, the more times they settled in our mind from memories and deeply. A separated relationship, no tragic accident, insult, or any incident that shocks the heart-all these memories come back to the mind and brain again and again, as if they want to explain something to us. But have you ever wondered why it is so difficult to forget the sad memories of the past? Not only the emotional reason behind this, but also the functioning of the depth is responsible.
Brain structure and memory game
The texture of the human brain is extremely complex. An important part of it is Hippocampus, which stores our long -term memories. When an emotionally deep or shocking phenomenon occurs, it is very effectively recorded in this part of the brain. Along with this, a part of Amygdala also becomes active, which processes emotions – especially negative feelings like fear, sorrow and anger. When a painful event decreases, the brain records it in “surveillance mode” so that it does not happen in the future. It is a defense mechanism in a way-but this system repeatedly disturbs us by bringing the same memories mentally.
Why negative memories reside more deeply?
According to a research, negative events are recorded more intense than positive events in the brain. This is because the priority of our brain is the first “safety”, and he remembers such incidents to warn us again and again-for example-if someone has ever cheated you, the next time you are in the same situation, the brain will bring out the same old memory and say-“Be careful!” This is an evolutionary mechanism that is moving from our ancestors.
Tiger and Flashback: How do memories return?
Many times someone smells, voice, song or place suddenly reveals the memory of that sad event. This is called trigger. The triggers are deeply recorded in our subconscious and when an external sign matches it, the memory is active immediately. For example, if your eyes become moist as soon as you listen to a particular song, then the song may have been connected with a sad moment.
What do scientists say?
According to reports from Harvard Medical School and American Psychological Association, it is not easy to free from grief memories as they are repeatedly active in the neural network of the brain. When we remember an experience again and again, the memory trace becomes stronger-like walking repeatedly in a field makes a footpath. That is why the thought does not stop by saying “stop thinking”, but becomes upside down and active. This process is called “Reinforced Memory Pathway”.
What is the solution?
Acceptance – First of all we have to accept that the incident happened to us and we are influenced by it.
Therapy and counseling – According to mental health experts, it is very important to talk and express emotions openly.
Mindfolation and Meditation – Meditation and learning to live in the present can reduce the effects of memories.
Creative Expression – Through writing, art, music, you can remove the pain inside you.
New experiences-By giving new memories to the brain, the grip of old memories gradually is loosened.
