How is data stored in the brain, and why is it difficult to forget traumatic memories?

Question

How is data stored in the brain, and why is it difficult to forget traumatic memories?

In: 36

Answer 1

Basically, the brain categorizes memories in your sleep into long term memory, which is stored, or short term memory which is to soon be forgotten. The brain categorizes thus based on what it thinks is important, and since traumatic experiences are an example of us surviving a traumatic experience (let’s say a near death experience), the brain stores it in long term memory in hopes that knowledge can help improve your overall survival when you face a similar traumatic experience.