We Forget a Lot in Our Lives, but We Rarely Forget an Insult
Although it is believed that time heals all wounds, it seems that insults stick in our memories for a very long time after the incident has gone. While it is typical to forget insignificant information like a phone number or grocery list, an insult we received, even years ago, can stay vividly engraved in our brains. So why is it that while we frequently forget insults, we forget a lot in our lives?
Our brains' ability to process emotional events is the key to the solution. Our brains release hormones like cortisol and adrenaline when we experience something emotionally charged, like an insult. We are more likely to remember the specifics of the incident because these substances produce an enhanced state of awareness. The likelihood that we will encode the memory increases with the intensity of the emotional response.👈
Furthermore, because insults frequently prey on our vulnerabilities and fears, they can have a lasting effect. It might be particularly painful and challenging to forget if someone insults us over something for which we already feel self-conscious. Our brains retain the memory to shield us from damage in the future.The fact that insults frequently originate from individuals we know and trust is another reason why they are difficult to forget. It might feel like a betrayal when someone we care about insults us, amplifying the emotional impact. Because of this, insults from family members or close friends can sometimes stick with us longer than those from strangers.
The fact that not everyone recalls insults the same way is significant. Some individuals may be more prone to remembering unpleasant remarks because they are inherently more sensitive to criticism. People who have gone through trauma or abuse may also be more sensitive to insults because they may have already gone through similar emotional suffering.
So, what can we do to move past the hurtful words and let go of the memories? One strategy is to practice self-compassion. Instead of dwelling on the insult, try to focus on your own strengths and positive qualities. It can also be helpful to talk to someone you trust about how the insult made you feel, as this can provide validation and support.
In conclusion, insults are hard to forget because of the emotional impact they have on our brains. It is a natural human response to remember events that elicit a strong emotional response, and insults can be especially powerful in this regard. However, with self-compassion and support from others, it is possible to move past the hurtful words and focus on our own positive qualities.
(By Rayees Ayoub : raieskmrspn@gmail.com)
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