Episode 73: Overcoming Shame: How Trauma Survivors Can Advocate for Their Health and Well-being
Peggy Oliveira 
Episode Description:
This episode originally aired on YouTube.
Advocating for ourselves is difficult for a lot of people. The more vulnerable the situation, the more difficult it is. This, in part, happens because with that vulnerability, shame is often present as well.
Whether it’s at work or with a business, family or friend relationships, or as it relates to boundaries, becoming an advocate for yourself is important to your overall well-being and an necessary part of healing.
For survivors of childhood trauma, this is very common when it comes to our needs - emotional, physical, or medical.
This can be particularly problematic within the health system (doctor, dentist, or mental health provider).
In this episode, we dive deep into the reasons behind this struggle - from shame and embarrassment to the fear of not being believed. I'll share practical tips on how to communicate effectively with your healthcare providers.
Remember, you deserve to be seen, heard, and cared for. Every time you speak up, you're honoring all parts of yourself, including those that have been hurt or silenced. It's not easy, but it's a crucial part of your journey.
Don’t want to wait for the next episode? Head over to my YouTube Channel, PegygOliveiraMSW, with over 300 videos about Impact & Healing from Childhood Trauma.
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This podcast is for informational purposes and is not mental health advice nor a replacement for professional mental health treatment.
Episode Notes:
- Trauma survivors often struggle with feelings of shame and embarrassment, making it difficult to seek medical or therapeutic help. Recognizing these feelings is crucial for healing and self-advocacy.
- Childhood trauma, especially sexual and physical, can lead to a disconnection from one's body and its needs. This can complicate seeking help for various health issues, as survivors might feel ashamed or believe their pain is undeserved.
- Honest communication with healthcare providers about symptoms and feelings is essential. Without complete information, providers may misinterpret the severity of issues, leading to inadequate care.
- Trauma survivors should practice being grounded in their right to seek care and support. This includes expressing discomfort, asking for modifications, and not feeling obligated to share more than they are comfortable with.
- Healthcare professionals generally aim to help, but they need accurate information. Patient honesty not only aids individual care but also contributes to broader awareness and better training for dealing with trauma-related issues.
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Categories: : Podcast
