However, the hippocampus does much more. It is also central to context-dependent memory, which is the fact that it’s easier to remember things that relate closely to your current situation.5 For example, it’s easier to recall memories from your undergraduate days if you’re visiting your old college campus, because the context is the same. Unfortunately, in depression, there is a large downside to context-dependent memory. Because the “context” is depression, all those happy memories that are easy to recall when you’re in a good mood suddenly evaporate. Meanwhile, all the tragedies in your life
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