Flashbacks?

[Silly sam]

i didnt look too hard but this is the most relevant thread i could find regarding flashbacks.

this isn't about me but for my own understanding.
Do they actually exist? i'v read many sources of information on them. Has anyone actually had one?

because i have read that they only happen if you already have mental health problems?

but then iv also heard from a housemate, that apparently her friend crashed a helicopter in a recent war due to having a flash back whilst flying?

surely its just a memory like any other? i can think about what i saw, smelt and heard on my trip right now? i dont get it?

 

[skillet]

I gather it's more a forced re-experiencing of a certain (usually really horrible) situation, generally bought on by stress.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flashback_(psychological_phenomenon)