How does your brain affect your resilience to trauma?

Why do some individuals recover from trauma while others remain stuck with intrusive memories?

A recent study conducted by inserm As part of the REMEMBER project, the study sheds new light on the brain mechanisms that promote healing. This research opens the way to novel treatments focused on the plasticity of neural networks.

Memory under control: a lever for flexibility

According to the study, people recovering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) show an increased ability to reshape their memory control mechanisms. These neural networks allow them to keep painful memories at bay, gradually reducing symptoms.

Yet in individuals suffering from PTSD, brain networks struggle to inhibit activity in the hippocampus, a key memory region. This dysfunction promotes resurgence of intrusive memories, making recovery difficult.

Resilience driven by brain plasticity

Studies show that in some PTSD patients, the onset of neuronal plasticity leads to a reduction in future symptoms. This ability of the brain to adapt is a source of hope for envisioning targeted therapeutic approaches.

By focusing on memory control circuits, these treatments can limit intrusive memories without causing patients to relive traumatic emotions. This approach would provide a gentle and effective alternative to current treatments.