The Hidden Effects of Emotional Wounds and Painful Memories

Painful Memories
Most people have gone through at least one stressful, traumatic, or tragic event in their lives. These difficult events leave an emotional wound, a memory that recreates the original pain whenever you think about it. These experiences usually cause a mix of anxiety, depression, and sometimes guilt.

The Normal Course Of Healing
For many people, when they are given enough support and guidance, these memories heal over several months. When you recall a memory that has healed you can remember what you felt but you don’t feel upset in the present. As the memory fully heals the symptoms of anxiety, depression and anger subside and disappear.

Unhealed Memories Can Lead To Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
For some people, these painful memories do not heal but instead become stronger and more upsetting. These people often go on to develop a condition called Posttraumatic stress disorder or PTSD. People with PTSD can have flashbacks, nightmares or just upsetting recollections of the memory. They often work hard to avoid thoughts, feelings or situations that may trigger the memory. Getting upset so often can cause them to startle easily, always be on guard, have difficulty sleeping and have frequent temper/anger outbursts. The high level of stress may also lead make them become emotionally numb, withdraw from relationships and lose interest in activities. Finally, having PTSD can cause other problems such as depression, substance abuse, fears and phobias, etc.