I just found an interesting article on the Psychology Today website which talks about using the drug propranolol, which was originally developed to treat high blood pressure, in the treatment of PTSD. Apparently this drug, which blocks adrenaline, can prevent PTSD if taken soon after a traumatic event or even reduce symptoms if taken years later.
The article presented two views, for and against its use. The professor who was against it stated that he favored a more "authentic" process, whereby people use painful experiences to grow and build character. Another professor countered his argument by pointing out that people generally did not wish to erase milder, character building events from their emotional memory. It was the larger, traumatic experiences that people desperately wished relief from. If a drug can weaken the formation of the type of memories associated with PTSD, he argues that it should be used alongside other treatments for PTSD.
While I do see the first professor's point - there is much to be learned from adversity - I can also see the benefits of treating those who have been through major events such as war and natural disasters. Why not lessen their suffering if we can?
What's your opinion? Would you want to take a drug to remove the sting of painful memories? Or would you prefer to grow and learn from your experiences without any assistance from a drug?