…When You’re Overwhelmed With Shame (Curt Thompson)
May 12, 2023
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Psychiatrist Curt Thompson discusses the physicality of shame and vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of being seen to combat shame. The podcast explores topics like recognizing emotions, guilt, shame, perception, community support, coping mechanisms, depression, and embracing vulnerability for healing.
Shame leads to isolation and self-criticism, hindering interpersonal connections and reconciliation.
Embracing vulnerability and inviting intimacy can pave the way for healing and self-compassion.
Deep dives
Understanding Shame and Guilt
Shame is described as feeling like one is bad, while guilt involves recognizing one has done something bad. Guilt typically arises from actions that lead to a breakdown in interpersonal connections, prompting seeking forgiveness. On the other hand, shame results in self-isolation and the inability to seek reconciliation by being seen in one's vulnerable state.
Embracing Vulnerability for Healing
Inviting intimacy and vulnerability can be challenging for individuals struggling to get out of bed due to shame. Addressing the parts of oneself that long for connection and creativity can foster healing and enrich the world with the unique contributions each person has to offer.
The Impact of Shame on Mental Health
Shame is deeply ingrained in human experience, often intertwining with mental health afflictions. Understanding the difference between guilt and shame is crucial for identifying root causes of distress and fostering self-compassion and healing.
Creating Space for Inner Healing
Encouraging dialogue and acceptance of various parts of one's inner self can lead to profound inner healing. By acknowledging and embracing all aspects of oneself, individuals can move towards integration and self-compassion, paving the way for growth and connection within oneself and with others.
“Shame has me cowering. I'm straight jacketed alone in my isolation. If I've done something for which I feel shame, I will not come to find you. The very notion of me, imagining you, seeing me, see you? It's too nauseating. It's too painful for me. And you're saying, ‘Curt, let's, let's get coffee again.’ I'm like, no, I can't. And it's going to be hard for me to look at you. And I am going to have to take the risk of allowing myself to be seen by you in the very moment that shame is in the room in order for me to have a physical and embodied experience of watching it be disregarded in your eyes. Only now can I really see myself. Because I see you seeing me.”
Curt Thompson is a psychiatrist, speaker, and the author of The Soul of Shame. IVP is invested in advocating for mental health through the publications of books like On Getting Out of Bedby Alan Noble, and The Soul of Shame by Curt Thompson. IVP provides Christian resources for both individuals and professionals. Find all of IVP’s mental health resources at ivpress.com/mentalhealth.
Learn more about the On Getting Out of Bed podcast here.
SPECIAL OFFER | Use the code IVPOD25 at ivpress.com for 25% off all IVP resources mentioned in this episode.
Disclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.
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