How Does Trauma Manifest in the Body with Gabor Mate
Sep 8, 2023
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Dr. Gabor Mate, a leader in seeing the body express stress and trauma, discusses how unresolved trauma manifests physically in our bodies. Topics include the role of dysregulation and genetics in diseases, stress on a cellular level, the interplay of copper excess and relational trauma in postpartum depression, repairing the disconnect caused by trauma, illness as an attempt to wake you up to your needs, the role of community in healing, and somatics addressing unresolved trauma.
Unresolved trauma has a lasting impact on the body, playing a role in various chronic conditions.
Dysregulation of the nervous system is crucial in the manifestation of trauma in the body, and addressing it is essential for healing.
Copper excess, related to zinc deficiency and relational trauma, can contribute to health symptoms associated with trauma.
Deep dives
Unresolved trauma manifests in our bodies
Unresolved trauma leaves a lasting impact on our bodies, playing a role in various chronic conditions. Conditions like autoimmune diseases, addiction, mental health disorders, and even cancer often have a traumatic template behind them. This mind-body connection is well-established in scientific literature, but unfortunately often ignored in medical training. Understanding this connection and addressing unresolved trauma is essential for effective healing.
The role of the nervous system in trauma
Dysregulation of the nervous system is a key factor in trauma and its manifestation in the body. Our nervous system is interconnected with other bodily systems, making it crucial to address when dealing with trauma. Recognizing different states of the nervous system, such as trauma physiology and stress states, can help us understand and manage physical health symptoms. Practices like somatic work and polyvagal theory can promote regulation and healing.
The interplay of copper excess and trauma
Copper excess, often related to zinc deficiency and impaired copper clearance, can play a role in health symptoms associated with trauma. For example, copper toxicity to neurons can contribute to chronic fatigue syndrome, while copper excess and relational trauma can increase the risk of postpartum depression. Understanding the impact of these factors on the nervous system and addressing them can lead to symptom relief and improved well-being.
The importance of connection and community
Healing from trauma and resolving unresolved trauma is not a journey that should be taken alone. Creating a felt sense of safety and support is vital for addressing trauma. Participating in a safe and supportive community can enhance healing outcomes and provide a valuable environment for growth and transformation. Working together, sharing experiences, and learning from others can lead to profound shifts and positive changes.
Authenticity and expansion in trauma healing
Becoming aware of and reconnecting with our authentic selves is a central aspect of trauma healing. By addressing trauma, connecting with the body, and embracing authenticity, individuals can expand their sense of self and experience life on a deeper level. This process requires working with different parts of ourselves, understanding their protective roles, and fostering curiosity and compassion for the changes we want to make. The journey towards authenticity and expansion is ongoing, leading to profound transformations and a more fulfilling life.
When there are physical symptoms involved, that is what you will learn about how unresolved trauma manifests physically in the body, and we must be careful to start in the right way. In this episode, I have with me Dr. Gabor Mate, who is a leader in seeing the body expressing stress and trauma, a family medical physician who also worked in palliative care and addiction medicine, and the author of When the Body Says No and Hungry Ghosts. We will be answering the big question - How does unresolved trauma manifest physically in our bodies and how can understanding this connection lead to profound healing? So, where do we start?
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Disclaimer:
By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Trauma Healing Accelerated, any guests or contributors to The Biology of Trauma podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of Trauma Healing Accelerated be responsible for damages arising from the use of the podcast.
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