Can Trauma Cause Memory Loss?

Trauma may cause memory loss in different ways. For example, when someone suffers a head injury, known as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it can affect brain areas that help us remember things. This injury disrupts the normal workings of the brain, making it hard to form or recall memories. On the other hand, psychological trauma, like what happens in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can also change memory function. Research shows that people experiencing high levels of stress may not remember events clearly. This loss of memory is not the same for everyone—its effects can vary based on the type and severity of the trauma. The brain's ability to remember often depends on how it processes emotional and physical stress during and after a traumatic event. Treatment options, such as therapy or rehabilitation, may help improve memory over time. Remember, if you or someone you know is troubled by memory loss after trauma, speaking with a healthcare professional is important.