Memory Reconsolidation Therapy

What is Memory Reconsolidation Therapy?

Memory reconsolidation is a mechanism in the brain responsible for modifying, editing, amending and erasing memories.
This feature of the brain has been found in crabs, nematodes, sea slugs, Medaka fish, mice, rats and humans.

The reconsolidation of memories is a relatively new discovery in neuroscience and the last 15 years has finally seen an uptick in research on this fascinating topic.  For over a century it was believed that long-term memories are stable and permanent. This could be a huge problem for someone that has been on the receiving end of a traumatic one-shot learning experience because that phobic response might become a permanent feature in a person's life. 

Fortunately, the neuroscience has been wrong and memories, including traumatic long-term memories, can be rendered into a labile state (changeable) allowing the memory to become updated and alleviating the subject of the painful memory.

There are major benefits for using memory reconsolidation therapy such as it being non-drug and because it doesn't require the client to be retraumatized with a retelling of the problematic narrative and it can be done extraordinarily quickly. Sometimes in less than an hour.

Many therapeutic uses have benefited from this natural mechanism in the brain which has helped people to erase problem memories of all kinds including numerous types of phobias along with various forms of post-traumatic stress disorder.

For an example of a case study using memory reconsolidation therapy, take a look at this post involving a Vietnam veteran who had 4 different types of traumatic memories which were all reduced down to a zero SUD's (Subjective Units of Distress) and in less than 5 hours.

Reconsolidating memories at it's rudimentary level, involves briefly activating the problem memory and then following up with an imagined different outcome which creates a mismatch experience/violation of expectations. When done properly and with the right timing in the memory reconsolidation window, the after effects can be quite liberating for the clients, especially ones that have had flashbacks for decades and are finally able to recall the past events as if it was an emotionally neutral recollection.

Additionally, It can be helpful to talk to a friend or family member about your feelings or seeking the help of a therapist for breakups. If you're feeling anxiety there is also online anxiety therapy from licensed counsellors which can help with triggering emotions and reactions you might still have about your ex. There are applications that have meditations and audios to help you sleep, relax, get over stuff. One to consider is the headspace app because they have good content and a free trial so you can checkout their goods and experience what works best for you.  

Learn the mental training strategies used by the military to clear veterans of PTSD.  This is the strategy mentioned in the Washington Post that is considered the most effective and least known protocol for changing problem memories.

Get Over a Breakup and Learn to Change problem memories so you can move forward without the baggage of a past relationship.

Learn how to get over a breakup fast and change the memories of your ex, for good!