Is it just the small details or are you missing large gaps?
Verywell Mind / Getty Images
Ourearly childhood experiencesshape our self-concept and engagement with the world.
These memories are key to our identity development as we move into adulthood.
Verywell Mind / Getty Images
But what happens if a client can’t remember their childhood?
There’s a common misconception that trauma is the main cause of childhood amnesia.
A logical assumption but is completely unfounded.
Oftentimes, people assume trauma is the root of their missing memories, but there are many possible explanations.
(The brain is a tricky organ).
Normal Memory Development in Childhood
Remember, it is natural not to remember everything from your youth.
Part of what cancause normal memory lossis the development of thehippocampus.
It is also one of the unique regions of the brain that continues to produce new neurons into adulthood.
Childhood amnesia can also be resulting from genetic mutations that deteriorate the hippocampus.
It is important to recognize that aspect of this are expectable.
However if this is causing you significant distress, it might be a good idea to seek outpsychotherapy.
A therapist can help you better understand and work through what this might reflect.
Celebrate special occasions with loved ones and be sure to take photos of the experience.
Final Thoughts
The inability to remember parts of your life can feel scary.
Some of these types of memory gaps are a normal part of the process of our brain development.
But if there are significant memory gaps that may be related tochildhood traumait may be time to seek support.
A therapist is a great place to start.
If you sense there’s a medical issue causing your memory loss, give your doctor a call.
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