75. Weapon Focus: Explaining Some of the Formation of Trauma Memory

Sexual Assault Survivor Stories Podcast - SASS

Part of the common experience in doing interviews of victims and survivors of rape, sexual assault, and other interpersonal violence, is to hear the person I’m interviewing say that they only remember certain parts of their trauma experience, or that there are parts that they’ve tried really hard to remember, but just can’t. Or say that there are parts of their trauma experience that they wish they could forget, but as much as they keep putting it out of their mind, or try not to think about it, they can’t stop the memories, intrusive thoughts, and nightmares.

But why is this happening, on both sides of that horrific experience…wanting to remember, but can’t; wanting to forget, but can’t? In this episode I explain what’s going on, to some degree, keeping in mind that the neuroscience of trauma and memory is complex and full of idiosyncrasies. And some parts of the brain and what’s happening with trauma just haven’t been discovered yet. But the science has some very good, detailed, and reliable answers. Here, I try to put some of it into context for you. I hope it helps.

It would be great to hear your thoughts and input on this subject…and whether you found this episode informative and helpful. Please rate this episode and leave me your comments! Your input is appreciated!

Please remember to do your part to help bring justice to victims and survivors of rape and sexual assault; the best way for you to do that is to Start By Believing. Because, we all know someone whose life has been affected by rape or sexual assault.

Additionally, here are some links you might find informative, helpful, and resourceful. Please learn about these people and organizations and support them financially if at all possible. They are there for you!

https://safeinharmsway.org

https://evawi.org

https://startbybelieving.org

https://thejanbrobergfoundation.org

https://projectcallisto.org

https://projectbeloved.org

https://unspokenboundaries.com

https://createpeacefulsolutions.com

https://arcigrey.com

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