According to an American study, the use of familiar smells helps depressed patients recall specific memories. Smells are particularly effective in this process: "The region of the brain that manages odors is located near the regions that manage memories", says neuropsychologist Sylvie Chokron.
Alice, 25, finds comfort in the smell of the laundry detergent used by her mother: "It’s a special smell that cheers me up when things aren't going too well. It reminds me a little of times when it was joyful"