Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee

How To Heal Your Past, Improve Your Mental Wellbeing & Unlock Your Full Potential with Dr Bessel van der Kolk #483

236 snips

Oct 8, 2024

Dr. Bessel van der Kolk is a leading authority on trauma and the author of 'The Body Keeps the Score'. In this engaging discussion, he clarifies the distinction between trauma and stress, exploring its signs and effects on mental and physical health. Bessel shares his passion for body-oriented therapies and the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted treatments. He emphasizes the vital role of community and human connection in healing and resilience, urging listeners to understand their pasts to unlock their fullest potential.

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INSIGHT

Trauma Definition

Trauma is defined as an experience that overwhelms your ability to cope, leaving you stuck.
Your nervous system continues to perceive the world through the lens of that experience.

INSIGHT

Trauma Prevalence

Domestic violence occurs in one out of three couples in the US, highlighting the prevalence of trauma.
Many relationships struggle with maintaining maturity and understanding each other's perspectives.

INSIGHT

Individual Trauma Responses

Trauma is an individual response to external events, influenced by perception and social context.
Outward appearances can be deceptive, making it difficult to gauge the true impact of trauma on others.

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Today’s returning guest is Dr Bessel van der Kolk. Bessel is a professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine and President of the Trauma Research Foundation. He's also the author of the iconic book, 'The Body Keeps the Score’, which first came out over 10 years ago and has sold millions of copies all around the world. In fact, the book has been somewhat of an international sensation and is as popular today as it ever has been.

In this conversation, we discuss the meaning of trauma and how it’s different from stress. Bessel shares common signs of trauma and describes how traumatic experiences leave a physical imprint in our bodies, which can contribute to a variety of physical and mental health problems. Interestingly, despite his extensive work with patients who have gone through some quite horrific, traumatic events, Bessel is still very optimistic about the world and what he has seen has deepened his belief and faith in human resilience.

We talk about healing and the many methods and techniques that Bessel has found to be helpful. He explains why he thinks that body-oriented therapies such as yoga can play such a vital role and he also explains why he is so passionate about the new research on psychedelic-assisted therapy - for trauma, depression, OCD, and addiction. He explains how these treatments can essentially 'reboot' the brain, opening up new possibilities for healing.*

Throughout the conversation, we emphasise the crucial role of human interaction and supportive communities in dealing with trauma and fostering resilience. Bessel also offers some valuable advice for parents on raising resilient children.

This conversation really is one of hope and positivity. Yes, sometimes life presents us with some challenging times, but as BESSEL MAKES VERY CLEAR - we ALL have a remarkable capacity to move on, change and heal.

Throughout our conversation, Bessel's message is one of hope and the remarkable capacity of humans to change and heal. He provides practical suggestions for those beginning to address their own trauma, including approaches that are affordable and widely available.

This is a powerful and insightful discussion with one of the world's leading authorities on trauma. I hope you enjoy listening.

*PLEASE NOTE: the psychedelic compounds discussed are illegal in many countries around the world and, as Bessel says, these drugs should only be taken under the guidance of trained healthcare professionals.

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Show notes https://drchatterjee.com/483

DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.