How the first moments of life shape our mental health | Jaclyn Ruggiero | #006 Mastering Change

"We’re saving lives in the NICU, but we need to start asking – what kind of lives are we shaping?" 

On average, we remember nothing before the age of 3.5. And when we consider which childhood experiences have shaped us as adults, we overlook the most significant of all: our own birth.  

This week on Mastering Change, we speak with Texas-based neonatologist Dr. Jaclyn Ruggiero, an expert in premature birth and infant trauma, to explore the profound impact of early-life experiences on human development. 

Dr. Ruggiero discusses how trauma, stress and medical interventions in infancy influence long-term health outcomes, highlighting critical issues in neonatal care. She shares: 

• How NICU experiences shape both babies and parents. 
• The importance of kangaroo care and early skin-to-skin contact. 
• The systemic changes needed to empower mothers and educate medical staff. 

This episode is essential listening for parents, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in neonatal care, trauma, and attachment. Tune in now! 

Moment of Care: This episode discusses sensitive episodes related to trauma, mental health and potential distressing experiences. If you feel triggered at any point, please take a moment to check in with yourself and seek support. 

Watch this episode on Youtube: https://tinyurl.com/masteringchangepodcast

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