Fragmented memories

[Guest_0932]

Hi, can anyone explain what exactly fragmented memories are? I've googled it but I still don't understand the concept of fragmented memories? Is it a memory that is traumatic but can't be recalled in context of your whole life memories?

[Croix]

Dear JesAH~

Welcome here, do you mind if I ask if you have having memory problems? As you are in the PTSD/Trauma section of the Forum I guess maybe either you, or someone you know is.

I've had PTSD, anxiety and bouts of depression for a long time, and particularly at the start I had a fair number of unusual memory processes. Partly forgetting incidents (not all traumatic ones, just ordinary ones too), having memories distorted with more emphasis on some things than actually what happened, and having forgotten matters come to the fore after a long time.

Also my emotional reactions to memories could change from no feelings to feeling a lot.

Now, many years later I think I've got it all sorted out, but am not sure, there still could be surprises. I had quite a large one a year or so ago - all OK now.

This is probably a pretty confused explanation, have a look at:

Forums / PTSD & Trauma / Poor concentration due to PTSD

For some of the memory/concentration problems others have had to deal with.

Croix

[Guest_0932]

Hi Croix, thanks for the reply. I checked out the post. It was helpful. Thanks. I don't think I have problems with memory, but I've been told I don't make connections between memories and why things the way they are in the present or something. I guess I was just curious if that was fragmented memory. People working with people who have experienced trauma seem to talk about fragmented memories a lot and I don't really understand what one is or how you know if someone has it. I've read articles on it, but I just don't really know what the term means. I hope that makes sense.

[Croix]

Dear JesAH~

I guess it manifests itself in differing ways, another problem I has was what I believe to be dissociation. For example I'd have headache and not realize I was having it. I'd feel the pain alright, but because I did not realize what was happening I'd passively endure without being in a position to take steps to remedy it.

Perhaps that is not what you are referring to. I've been most upset, angry or frightened and had what appeared at the time to be no obvious reason. Later sometimes I've been able to ascribe it to a past event wiht the trigger being circumstances, smell or something else.

Is this more what you mean?

Croix

[Guest_0932]

Yeah I guess that is why it is hard to define, because it manifests in different ways. Thanks for that.