When participants were re-exposed to an image associated with fear within six hours recalling the traumatizing experience, the fearful memory could be erased. Psychologists were essentially able to re-write the memories to make them less traumatic.
The scientists say the study is a major breakthrough because it suggests that a "non-pharmacological" natural approach can be used to manage emotional memories. In other words, drugs might not be required to treat people with post-traumatic stress syndrome, anxiety disorders, or phobias. The potential to modify human memory is also quite fascinating — and hopefully nothing to fear!
Source: Flcikr User avialle