However, all is not well. We may tend to avoid situations that remind us of the original event, though we may not know why. We may have nightmares. We may be unable to form romantic or sexual relationships, or be unable to participate in activities that are important to us. This blocking of the memory may not be complete.
Some people are feel somewhat emotionally numb on a routine basis.
Problems with alcohol or drugs may develop in an attempt to hold these disturbing memories at a distance. Sexual abuse is an experience that can cause this phenomena to occur. Abuse like this is a highly threatening experience, especially for children. Their bodies and their emotional make-ups are violated, and they have no way of coping with the feelings that result. Many children block out these memories.