The way people process and store emotionally-charged memories can be highly individual and can depend on many factors, including their unique psychological makeup, life experiences, coping strategies, and possibly neurodivergent conditions such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Research suggests that many people with ADHD experience difficulties with emotional regulation, which can include challenges managing responses to emotionally-charged memories. This can manifest in various ways. For example, some people may struggle with hyperfocus on negative events or emotions, while others might avoid or compartmentalize these emotions.
The ability to compartmentalize emotionally-charged memories, as you described, is generally considered a coping mechanism. It can be helpful in managing intense emotions or stressful situations, but if overused or not balanced with other emotional processing skills, it can also potentially lead to difficulties in fully processing emotions or experiences.
That said, everyone is unique, and people with ADHD are no exception. Some may find that they compartmentalize emotions or memories more readily than others, while others may have a completely different experience.
If you find that your ability to compartmentalize is causing distress or difficulties in your life, it might be helpful to discuss this with a mental health professional, who can provide guidance and support in exploring and managing these experiences. They may also be able to help you develop additional strategies for emotional regulation and processing.