Presentation Information
[O-2-06]Cognitive Load and Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories – An Ultra Brief Method to Alleviate Symptoms of Posttraumatic stress.
*Anna Bjärtå, Jennifer Meurling (Mid Sweden University(Sweden))
Keywords:
PTSD,Reconsolidation,Cognitive load
In an era of global uncertainty marked by conflict, displacement, and widespread psychological distress, it is more important than ever to advance the evidence base for scalable, accessible, and culturally sensitive interventions that effectively target core symptoms of trauma and stressor related disorders. In our laboratory, we have developed and tested a brief reconsolidation-based intervention targeting intrusive memories, a hallmark symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and a common feature across several other psychiatric conditions. The method involves reactivating a traumatic memory, followed by a guided imaginal exposure designed to tax cognitive resources. This approach aims to reconsolidate a less emotionally intense version of the memory, leading to a reduced emotional response at future recall. The intervention consists of a single online session with a booster and has shown very promising in reducing both the frequency of intrusions and overall PTSD symptoms. In a current project, we are translating and adapting the intervention to meet the needs of migrants with refugee background residing in Sweden. The talk will focus on the theoretical underpinnings of the method, its development, empirical evaluation, and future directions for research and implementation. It will conclude with a discussion of related approaches informed by neuropsychological models and their potential for cross cultural clinical applications.