The Reason for Repressed Memories

A repressed memory is a condition in which a memory has been blocked by an individual due to the high level of stress or trauma contained in that memory. Even though the individual cannot recall the memory, it may still be affecting them consciously. Since repressed memories cause physical and emotional damage, expressing feelings rather than repressing them after experiencing a traumatic even will highly benefit the effected individual.
Repressing memories can be extremely detrimental in both physical and emotional aspects. Since repression causes such stress on the human body, it is much more common for the effected individual to have disorders such as hyperextension and cardiovascular disease. “Thus, although repression improves one’s self-esteem and emotional state in the short-term by protecting against negative affects and memories, it also takes a physical toll on one’s body… resulting in hypertension and compromised immune functioning. This risk–benefit equation has also been found in coronary patients and cancer patients” (Knafo par. 12). This study done by Danielle Knafo explains that although repression may be a quick fix emotionally, it has major consequences in the long run. Apart from the physical pain individuals experience from repression, the individual will also have to deal with emotional pain. Studies show that phobias, neuroses, and conversion hysteria become more common once memories are repressed because of the stress level associated with repression.
In order to avoid the damage associated with repression, once a person experiences something traumatic in their life, that individual should undergo therapy right away. Undergoing therapy will allow the patient to overcome emotional and psychological p...

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...in an individual’s life it will be easy for them to recall later in life once they receive the cue for the memory to be remembered. If an individual who has once experienced trauma in their life deals with their emotions by keeping them bottled up, they will eventually crack because of all of the physical and emotional damage that they are causing themselves.
Most importantly, research has proven patients undergoing therapy for repression have made positive changes in their life, and because of this improvement, patients should always express their feelings. After experiencing a traumatic event, individuals should seek professional guidance so that they learn how to deal with the emotional and physical damage that will eventually set in. Being proactive and going to therapy will allow patients to overcome pain and help patients to become at peace with their past.