Flashback (psychology)

A flashback is kind of like watching a movie in your head. But, instead of a story that you made up, the movie is about something that really happened to you in the past. It can be a scary or upsetting memory that comes back to you suddenly, without you choosing to remember it.

Just like how different movies make you have different feelings, a flashback can make you feel scared, sad, angry, or anxious. It might also make you remember things that you forgot about or didn't notice before.

When you have a flashback, it can feel like you are right back in the past, like you're actually there. It can make you feel like you're not safe in the present, even if you are perfectly safe.

Sometimes, people who have been through traumatic events have a lot of flashbacks. This can make it hard for them to do everyday things because they are always thinking about the past. But, there are ways to help people feel better and work through their flashbacks with the help of a therapist or a trusted friend or family member.