Dealing with Disturbing Memories
Because trauma memories can be upsetting, an understandable way of dealing with them is to push them away and try not to think about them, but that just prolongs your recovery.
If you always avoid the memories, you won't learn to control them, and you might miss out on parts of your life. Avoidance and fear can also turn into other emotions, such as anger and depression.
Are You Avoiding Memories?
The questions below can help you identify if avoiding memories are costing you too much:
- Have you avoided things because they remind you of the trauma (for example, outings with family and friends)?
- Have you felt lonely or socially isolated?
- Have you shut down your emotions?
- Do you feel drained and tired by always trying to avoid reminders of the trauma?
- Do you go far out of your way to avoid reminders?
- Do you spend money to avoid reminders?
- Have your relationships changed because you are less "engaged?"
- Is your self-esteem worse since the trauma?
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