Trauma: The Business of Solving an Invisible Epidemic | Dr Paul Conti

TL;DR

Trauma is defined as an event that overwhelms our coping skills, leading to emotional and cognitive changes. It is possible to move forward from trauma by validating our feelings, delinking triggers from negative self-talk, and embracing self-compassion.

Transcript

I was waiting for a rescue boat for a while you know I threw up the flare yeah you know I was floating in the ocean with my flotation device getting cold feeling like I was dying rescue boat never came so uh I decided I'm going to swim for the shore right and that was my only option right because look because you didn't actually need a boat right I... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 Trauma overwhelms our coping skills and leads to emotional and cognitive changes.
• 🤳 Validating our feelings and thoughts, separating triggers from negative self-talk, and embracing self-compassion are crucial steps in overcoming trauma.
• 🦻 Seeking therapy and support can aid in healing and developing resilience.

Questions & Answers

Q: How is trauma defined?

Trauma is an event that overwhelms our coping skills, leading to emotional and cognitive changes. It can range from big traumas, such as assaults or combat, to chronic traumas or vicarious traumas.

Q: How can we move forward from trauma?

Moving forward from trauma involves validating our feelings and thoughts, delinking triggers from negative self-talk, and embracing self-compassion. Therapy can be helpful in uncovering underlying patterns and providing tools for healing.

Q: How can we separate triggers from negative self-talk?

By acknowledging our triggers and understanding their origins, we can validate our emotions without letting them define us. We can delink negative self-talk from the triggers and focus on self-compassion and self-growth.

Q: Is it possible to overcome trauma entirely?

While trauma may always be a part of our story, it is possible to heal and develop resilience. By processing trauma, seeking support, and practicing self-compassion, we can move forward and create a fulfilling life.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Trauma is any experience that pushes our coping skills beyond their limits and leads to emotional and cognitive changes.

• Processing trauma through therapy can help uncover underlying thoughts, validate feelings, and provide tools for healing and resilience.

• Validating our own experiences and separating triggers from negative self-talk can help build self-compassion and resilience.

• It is essential to understand that trauma does not have to define our lives, and with introspection and support, it is possible to move forward.