Sensory perception and its role in memory consolidation and retrieval is a very intricate process that can be used in a great multitude of ways. Memories formed through sensory observations not only help with a recollection of past events, but it is also an integral way in which living beings adapt and become trained for differing situations. Although humans are most reliant on sight, there is subliminal encoding going on that parallels what we see. This is why a certain sound, taste or smell can help us recall a specific event that was stored deep into our memory store. Sometimes these memories can be intense, and the certain trigger may arouse us in an effort to avoid the same fate from the past. This real-life coping mechanism is a concept that can be studied to help patients get rid of past traumas to alleviate the role of disturbed mental health in their current lives. Although fear and memory have been studied for quite some time, current research is focusing on multiple ways of integrating knowledge of the brain and mental health to find solutions for a growing number of people. What can a reduction in fear response to certain stimuli do for overall mental health? Can researchers find the ability to “cure” patients of past traumas? How can knowledge in this sphere be integrated into therapies? What are the repercussions of the suppression of memory in the long term?
In “Odor Modulates the temporal dynamics of fear memory consolidation” written by Stepanie L. Grella and colleagues researched how memory, odor and physiological structures are correlated in the consolidation of intense circumstances. That there is a deeper culmination of the current discoveries we have. This is especially true in fearful and salient memories based after heavy trauma. The research purpose was to devise an understanding to replace memory recall based on the odor by replacing/inhibiting certain reception to treat PTSD. The vivid nature of the memories for those who have PTSD disables them from a normal lifestyle. The experiments were conducted on labs rats to shift the dynamics of memories at a systems level which can cause a different nature of response. What was found is that odor gave a stronger response to fearful memory. However, when these processes were inhibited there was a quicker delay in freeze responses. Leaving the study, is there a way where memories can be replaced with the same odor in an effort to reduce recollection of memory?
In “Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy Can Help PTSD”, Matthew Tull writes about the current progress in exposure therapy for those who suffer from PTSD through virtual reality headsets. He explains that this type of therapy is starting to become increasingly common for a variety of anxiety disorders and phobias as well. It goes on to explain why exposure therapy works on a level that allows for the patients to avoid the fear interference of their thoughts, memories and emotions- helping them work through it and increasing quality of life. These extreme memories range from war veterans to victims of rape, allowing them to be put into difficult circumstances that would not otherwise be safe to do in the real world. This is why exposure therapy through virtual reality is a great option to help those in need of altering lower qualities of life.
Using both of these pieces of writing, we see the real life implications that can come from a combination of different approaches to help those suffering from mental health issues, more specifically PTSD. The ability to have a normal life is a human right and many times it is not possible when one is burdened with such intense and vivid memories. Integration of these therapies/research for the participants/patients can help alleviate many anxieties, PTSD and other mental health issues that are becoming more prevalent today. Further research in a way to completely alleviate these problems in the future does not seem to be too far away!
Citations
Grella, S. L., Fortin, A. H., Mckissick, O., Leblanc, H., & Ramirez, S. (2019). Odor Modulates the Temporal Dynamics of Fear Memory Consolidation. doi:10.1101/2019.12.19.881615
Matthew Tull, P. (2020, June 29). How Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) Treats PTSD. Retrieved from https://www.verywellmind.com/virtual-reality-exposure-therapy-vret-2797340
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