6 ways to heal trauma without medication | Bessel van der Kolk | Big Think
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- čas přidán 18. 09. 2021
- 6 ways to heal trauma without medication, from the author of “The Body Keeps the Score,” Bessel van der Kolk
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Up next ►► How to heal trauma with meaning: A case study in emotional evolution | BJ Miller • How to heal trauma wit...
Conventional psychiatric practices tell us that if we feel bad, take this drug and it will go away. But after years of research with some of the top psychiatric practitioners in the world, we’ve found that drugs simply don’t work that well for many, and our conventional ways of healing trauma need to change.
In recent years, experts in the study of trauma have been experimenting with ‘new age’ healing mechanisms that are making massive waves for trauma patients. Some of these new healing methods include EDMR, yoga, theater and movement, neural feedback, and even psychedelics. Many of these methods have proven to be more effective than conventional pharmaceuticals.
But just like any other health regimen, what works for you might not work for your friend or neighbor. New age trauma therapy is all an experiment, and after enough experimenting, something can eventually work, healing your trauma in a unique and effective way.
Read the video transcript: bigthink.com/series/the-big-t...
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About Bessel van der Kolk:
Bessel van der Kolk is a psychiatrist noted for his research in the area of post-traumatic stress since the 1970s. His work focuses on the interaction of attachment, neurobiology, and developmental aspects of trauma’s effects on people. His major publication, Traumatic Stress: The Effects of Overwhelming Experience on Mind, Body, and Society, talks about how the role of trauma in psychiatric illness has changed over the past 20 years.
Dr. van der Kolk is past President of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, Professor of Psychiatry at Boston University Medical School, and Medical Director of the Trauma Center at JRI in Brookline, Massachusetts. He has taught at universities and hospitals across the United States and around the world, including Europe, Africa, Russia, Australia, Israel, and China.
Check out Bessel van der Kolk's latest book, “The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma” at www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Sco...
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Read more of our stories on healing trauma:
How to Heal From Trauma ►► bigthink.com/personal-growth/...
How Childhood Trauma Can Make You A Sick Adult ►► bigthink.com/videos/vincent-f...
How to heal trauma with meaning: A case study in emotional evolution
►► bigthink.com/neuropsych/bj-mi...
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I think a lot of people who clicked on this vid has trauma themselves. I just wanna say, from one trauma survivor to another, I'm proud of you all and sending my love. I hope you heal 💜
💗
Right back at you with love ❤️
i becoming feeling defective but i don't know if i m the wrong one or i'm myself and because of my acts which ve incited making the other acted that way .i couldn't distinguish between these too things. because i ve done wrong acts too and i always blaming myself and couldn't come over. i was so rational introvered and just caring for succes and ideas. but now i m returned totally a defferent person so empathic and emotional and caring more about people and life and such not productive in my life. so how can i make the defference between being really traumatistic or just blaming self for my wrong acts? i m so confused sometimes i feel like all people accept it like a normal thing and i m just exaggerated 💔
@@intellectualwoman4039 just remember that no one can be perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. There's no need to be so hard on yourself, everyone messes up sometimes
Amen 🙏🏻 & blessings for u too 😢❤️
“Healing from trauma is an experiment.” I really appreciate that truth!
Yep truths!!
It really is. Look at the history of psychology. Only recently have we understood and had compassion for people with mental illness.
@@TaraHower Read my msg I sent you and do the practice daily. Top priority is to detox the mind. Since many years I have made it a habit to observe my breath sensations even when I take a walk, when reading, on the phone, before sleep etc and feeling relaxed and healthy. It is so simple. No deep breathing needed. Stillness calms the mind quickly. Do the practice regularly to develop your mental muscles during these tough times. Best wishes. Shyaaam Sir-Coun sellor.
@@Portia620 Read the msg I sent you and do the simple practice regularly for relief. Since many years I have made it a habit to observe my breath sensations even during my normal daily activities and I am feeling relaxed and healthy. No deep breathing or counting needed. Read my msg and do the practice to develop your mental muscles. Strictly avoid constipation as it affects the mind. Best wishes. Shyaaam Sir-Senior counsellor.
@@shyaaammeneen63 could you send me one please.
1:26. Psychotherapy.
2:13. EMDR.
3:30. Yoga.
4:09. Theater & Movement.
5:33. Neural feedback.
5:54. Psychedelics.
Thanks
Thank you! You make the world --- online + offline --- a better place with your thoughtful efforts.
And organic green tea ☺
@Human EMDR works wonders with calming the reaction to the immediate traumatism, to the painful event.
Mindfulness therapy.
I pray everyone is not only healed from the trauma but anything lost is replaced 100 fold
😊😊
❤❤
Amen ❤
🙏
Amen 😊
Singing is helping me to let go of such deep anger towards all those years in utter despair and helplessness.
@Big Think ◼️ scam
Singing helps very much. My aunt sang when afraid, even in WWII in a Nazi prison. They thought she was crazy and let her go. :)
@@jordanedgeley6601 troll?
@@markyswe there was a scammer he was removed
I also started singing and yes it really helps
1. Psychotherapy
2. EMDR
3. Yoga
4. Theatre and movement
5. Neural feedback
6. Psychedelics
Thank you :)
Thank you!!!
Thank you.
A video provides context for each point. There's no context in a list. As much as you may desire to help people by making a list, it's important to realize that it doesn't help them. It gives them the illusion that they 'know', so they don't need to spend any time watching the video because the context isn't necessary. As such, they lack context for each point in the list. Context matters.
Not only that, but the CZcams algorithm evaluates a channel, in part, based on how much 'watch time' its videos get. So, when people scan comments to see if anyone has made a list, and they find a list, and then they go elsewhere rather than watching the video... it actually hurts the CZcams channel. Because they don't watch the video, it doesn't score as well in the CZcams algorithm. And that negatively affects both the video and the channel.
So, please... to everyone who's trying to be helpful by making lists... consider just letting people have to watch the video if they want to know what it's about. That way, you help the viewers who decide to take the time to watch, and you help the CZcams channel.
@@RichardHarlos For folks with ADD / ADHD the lists are a good way to center focus, at least for me where I end up scrolling through (or replying to) comments and wandering in my thoughts. However I appreciate that we should pay due respect to well crafted content by viewing the whole video. Just my perspective that lists are not inherently diversions
Soul medicine:
1. meditation 2. deep belly breathing 3. authentic connections 4. sunrise 5. sunset 6. being present 7. hugs 8. nature 9. love 10. act of kindness 11. phone free time 12. gratitude 13. healing 14. laughter 15. deep inner soul nourishment 16. gratitude 17. creativity
Excellent recipe❤
Anything involving other people can be really hard to come by
REMOVAL OF NEGATIVE CYNICAL PEOPLE. POSITIVE ENCOURAGING ENERGY
To whoever reading this, everything is going to be okay ❤. You’re a winner for even wanting to heal. You’re doing a great job
I've tried to listen to this, but the background music was so unbearable, I had to quickly turn this off!!
This like some meditation videos which a full of commercials! 😮
“Medications” nearly killed me. They are also the reason I remained sick and unhealed into my 40’s. I am off of all “medications” that I now consider to be nothing but poison. I have been doing EMDR, acupuncture, massage, complete diet change and exercise to heal my mind, body and spirit. I finally feel free from the bondage of C-PTSD. I’m going to finally be ok. I also couldn’t have survived all I did without my higher power. There is hope and healing without the need of pharmaceuticals or self medicating. I also have over 14 years of sobriety from my alcoholism and I was also able to quit smoking cigarettes. Please never give up. The healing process is actually quite horrible but it’s supposed to be in order to heal. No one ever was honest with me about the extreme pain I would endure during the healing process. I would cry so hard, that I know I sounded like a dying animal. I scared people off to the point I had to heal completely alone. My own mother even turned her back on me. We live in a world where we are not allowed to react to life’s traumas with human emotions. It does get better. The pain must come to the surface, so it can be released once and for all. Please never ever give up. Keep fighting for yourself... you’re worth it!! I hope and pray everyone here who is suffering finally heals!! ❤️🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼
Very well said! Thank you!
Well done you 👍
Eastern medicine offers the way out. I agree, I’m sick of these legalized drugs that numb me out
Same, only I'm 39
Glad it works for you! I have been doing all those things since I was a young adult, except the EMDR, I'd like to try that. So I am kinda numb to it all now. At 40, I am now seeking medication because natural techniques just aren't working. I imagine just like with most things in life, a cycling of techniques works best for some people.
Sigmund Freud had said"before you diagnose with depression or low self esteem, first make sure you are not surrounded by assholes".
Lol. It wasnt him that said it
@@TheBakingGirlShow Everyone thinks Freud said it, but even the Sigmund Freud museum in Vienna said it wasn’t from anything they had ever seen in his writing. In reality, (this is funny) it turns out it was just a random tweet from an account by the name @debihope in the early 2000’s. 😂
It is still possible to feel down by the aftermath of dealing with said a-holes.
Nailed it
Amen to that!
Psilocybin saved my life. I was addicted to heroin for 15 years and after Psilocybin treatment I will be 3 years clean in September. I have zero cravings. This is something that truly needs to be more broadly used in addiction treatment.
A lot of people have testified about this and I really want to give it a shot. I put so much on my plate and it definitely affects my stress and anxiety levels
The Trips I've been having have really helped me a lot,I finally feel in control of my emotions and my future and things that used to be mundane to me now seem incredible and full of nuance on top of that I'm way less driven by my ego and I have alot more empathy as well
@Micheal Harris Does dr.sporess ship?
Shrooms was the best trip I had. It was an amazing experience.
Yes i agree , it helped me tremendously with my ptsd
I am a trauma survivor from both childhood and from two wars. I am currently in my clinical master of Psychology and have read his book "The Body Keeps the Score," which is very powerful. I am hoping to give back one day from my own experiences. to everyone suffering, I can tell you this, Better days are ahead!
Thank you so much , I just ordered the book on amazon after reading your comment . I am sure it ll change my life
I am currently reading it again, it that important, his outlook and how he frames things, even his initial shock a certain therapies he was a believer. The chapter he speaks of his first experiences with EMDR therapy, it helped me tremendously had a huge break through, he speaks on it all, every aspect of trauma, he has over 50 years of experience.
You won't be disappointed
Stay blessed and hope you will share us your experiences.
Hi , how are you , can I know there is specific topic in psychology talking about trauma or ptsd I mean I can take some degree talking about that specifically?
My heart goes out to everyone who has experienced childhood trauma. I have childhood PTSD too, so I know what it’s like. It’s especially painful to learn that once your childhood is over, once you turn 18 and you’re finally “free” from your abusers, the struggle isn’t over, but it’s only just begun. The path to healing is a long and lonely one, but it is worth the fight. Keep pushing up that mountain. Don’t give up. Know you ARE loved. You ARE worthy. You DO deserve good things in this world. You DO deserve to feel happy. I hope you find your way my friend, because remember you are never alone. In love and light. ✨
💜💜💜💜💜🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗💜💜💜💜💜
Yes, I thought I would be "free" when I turned 18 and moved out. I'm 35 and still depressed. I often think I should have just killed myself back then when I first wanted to. If I killed myself I would have protected myself from all the pain and suffering. Now I have a baby and can't die because it's wrong to leave her.
@@Shortstacksandticktacks Aw I’m sorry you feel that way. 🥺 I just turned 33 and I still get really depressed too so I understand the feelings, but we have to remember killing oneself is never the answer! Think of all the people who love you and would miss you if you were gone. I’m glad you have a daughter to live for. She needs her mommy. I hope you have a wonderful day today full of love. 💗💗💗
@@Shortstacksandticktacks I can sympathise with you there in thinking you would be free at 18 and things would be good, I was the same. Hang in there, I'm sure if you are reasonably good to your daughter she will love you. My depression has improved since I became a Catholic, learned to control my thoughts and force myself to believe in hope for the future and to dismiss stressful and negative thoughts.
Can we talk. I feel so great when meet people like u who has gone through the same as me.
This man wrote “the body keeps the score” and it was one of the best books I’ve read, dealing with the topics on trauma and holistic healing. One of the books that would truly enlighten and change lives.
Edit: Wow what a year! Thank you all so much for the replies and kind words. I came across an extremely profound book recently titled "Letting Go" By David Hawkins. It spoke to me, gave me many closures, and understanding about myself. This book speaks to you on a conscious and subconscious level. I highly recommend it to you, Hope it can provide you with what you need on your journey. Happy healing and have a blessed new year.
Actually that book was inspired by Alice miller. She wrote the body never lies and has plenty of books on child trauma and how it affects us as adults. She is also a therapist so she explains things a lot deeper and has actually real life experiences she speaks about.
His name is Gabor Mate
Dr. Bruce Perry is also amazing. His work on the Neurosequential Model explains what is actually occurring in the brain to understand ones behaviors. State dependent functioning. He clearly explains why talk therapy doesn't work for some and when it can be implemented.
stolen from alice miller
Oh wow, he's the author?! Amazing book
I was diagnosed with Trauma since my teenage, spent my whole life fighting ADHD. Also suffered severe depression and mental disorder. Not until a friend recommended me to psilocybin mushrooms treatment. Psilocybin treatment saved my life honestly. 8 years totally clean. This is something that really need to be use globally to help people with related health challenges.
Congrats on your recovery. Most persons never realizes psilocybin can be used as a miracle medication to save lives. Years back i wrote an entire essay about psychedelics. they saved you from death bud, lets be honest here.
Can you help me with the reliable source. I'm 44 and have suffered for years with addiction, anxiety and severe ptsd, I got my panic attacks under control myself years ago and they have come back with a vengeance, I'm constantly trying to take full breaths but can't get the full satisfying breath out, it's absolutely crippling me, i live in Greece. I don't know much about these mushrooms. Really need a reliable source!! Can't wait to get them.
YES.. he’s Dr.raymycology. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today
I hate that psilocybin gets grouped with drugs like cocaine and heroin. Mushrooms are a remedy, not a vice! I went on a microdose treatment for a couple of months and within the first week, every sight of a cigarette got me questioning why I was doing all that to myself. It really works.
How do I reach out to him? Is he on insta
This might sound weird but I say to myself “I am safe in a human body” and it really helps my anxiety.
LOVE this comment
Yes I so agree with you! As I have started saying things like it’s safe to be in this world, I connect with the world. As I could hear myself saying things like ‘I feel disconnected from this world’ or ‘this world is a bad place’, which all just reinforce my past traumas and made me withdraw.
That’s powerful
Love, love, love this!
Oh look at all the replies hi everyone! Kinda unrelated, but another anxiety trick if I go for a job interview or am having a nerve wracking day at work, I tell myself that I am here as a volunteer. It makes me way less stressed out. I have a whole bunch of weird things I tell myself lol.
I ran when I was diagnosed with depression. I don't necessarily like running, but it was very therapeutic and I could get lost in the rhythm of my steps. And I felt amazing after I finished.
Feels like you're floating for a second. Then you come back to reality.
I was turned off of exercise for a while because I cant stand cardio or at least I used to hate it but for me lifting weights was what was like a paradigm shift for depression. Anyone who hasnt had success with cardio should try weights and vice versa. I find the feeling of the post workout "high" rejuvenating its all about finding a workout routine that makes you excited to do it again the next workout
Try the breathing meditation from Wim Hof, and also research him and his experience with depression.
@@m3m3brane48 I found that even if I don’t set aside time for exercise, doing quick exercise movements throughout the day when no one’s looking gives a huge mood boost. Doesn’t need to be a session. For example a couple quick knee raises or a couple air punches, or a quick sprint to get from point a to point b. I find explosive movements do more, just don’t hurt yourself lol.
so what do you do when youre not running? does the depression kick in?
This guy wrote a book about this called The Body Keeps the Score, and it absolutely revolutionized my life. It has taught me *so much* about my mental health and the mental health of people around me. I have more empathy and compassion for myself and for other people, because I understand how trauma disrupts our lives. And finally, I have toolset to heal from my own trauma, and I am able to communicate with my therapist better, because I am making clearer and deeper connections about my actions now and what happened to me in the past.
I really really cannot recommend this book enough. It is the reason I, at age 40, have decided to go back to school to become a mental health worker.
🎉life starts at 40 bruv😂🥳Congratulations mate
@@user-pd3st3eb3p Medical personal, it is time to REPENT AND BORN AGAIN!
🎉😂🎉😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤😊😊😊😊yes yes
This is awesome
When I found out my husband was cheating and wanted to get a divorce I was devastated!! It was the worse pain I've ever felt..I went for a walk,I ran for 3hrs
And I started going hiking after that, it really helped me overcome that suffering and horrible experience..
I went to therapy for a few months and went to church and it helped but connecting with nature i can definitely say that..that was the thing that really saved me from going crazy.
I never took medication
I’m sorry he did that to you
Now that's what I call taking your life into your own hands! And, having confidence in yourself and in God. Fantastic. Great job. Thanks for sharing. 👌🙏💝
I do the same things, when going through a devastating period. Life sucks big time, very often. But, I always make it out stronger and more mature. 💪 No meds, no alcohol, no psychedelics. As that alters the neurons for good, and can have a huge negative effect, in the brain. Which is not retrograde. So, I advice all to not go that route. But, just go inside. Feel the pain. Adress it. See it from afar. Let it go. And, say goodbye to that past. Move on. (That takes years most of times, but it works, and only has benefits). 🙏🤍
i been in therapy 19 years! my mother was horrified to me and pretty much forced me to take medication.
Him cheating is the best thing that happened to you trust me. It's sounds crazy but if you dig deeper you'll realize you've been saved from a prison.
@@c2819fnf we are already in hell
Studying narcissism has freed me from a life of trauma. I'm an empath and was a target for narcissists. They are very dangerous people. They choose a target then systematically set out to destroy their targets life. They are like robots with a computer program to destroy.
The way I heal is to be present in the moment. See things for how they really are (the best I can), bake and jog. I find things to do that I love everyday. And boundaries are crucial for healing. I can spot a narcissist now and I STAY AWAY from them. For me it's a matter of life and death.
Couldn’t have said it any better
XACTLY! 💯💯💯 EVERYTHING YOU SAID.
My peace is now my first priority. At 55, I'm done with sacrificing my health for the benefit of others.
Ditto! Well said my friend ❤️
Wonderful advice!!!! 👍🌍
I've listened to music and sang most of my life due to being raised in a dysfunctional, toxic home. It helps keep me sane.
Doesn’t that same music haunt you now?
Every school should have music ed. It's disgraceful that is NOT the case in America today.
Me too
music is insanely healing n validating, esp when i find a song that i feel expresses whatever emotion i feel that idek how to describe
I grew up in toxic home.. when I'm not deeply depressed, music helps a bit. 😊 like with "happier than ever" which perfectly describes my mother f.i.
I have a lot of trauma related to having a narcissistic mother and losing a child to childhood cancer. Yoga and journaling are the 2 best things I’ve ever done for myself. Life changing.
Sending love and peace to everyone in need. Healing is possible and you’re so worth it. ❤
I want to journal, but don't know where to start? How did you get started?
Me too
U write how u feel each day, why you feel that way, and 3 things u are thankful for in a day. Everyday
That journaling ...WRITE on cigeratte rolling papers IN RED INK (red is power n blood of Jesus Christ) write letter to God releasing ..write EVERYTHING OUT..then burn it in food can and dump JUST THE ASHES ONLY *not* the can into river or canal water moving away from you..we want all that negativity to move away from you
Thankyou for sharing 🙏Yoga and journalling became two of my salvations too ...
The way I dealt with my trauma was by letting go of all of the resentment I had towards my family. I was so engulfed in what I had went through because of them that it became my primary headspace. I didn’t exist in the present, and couldn’t see forward. I was in hell still trying to find closure, trying to make sense of things, to no avail and and it consumed me. I was so anxious, hyper vigilant, irritable, and insecure. And I felt like I had to be uppity and grandiose to be acknowledged by anyone.
In my family, it was just trauma and abuse that was repeating. Much of it could have been controlled but you have to remember that these generations existed before we had instant access to resources and information, and social sciences were still highly flawed and not taken so seriously. A lot of them didn’t know much of anything. They didn’t know how to parent or be healthy partners because they were never shown and couldn’t watch CZcams videos and read studies on command to figure it out. They were just winging it. And the pain that their toxic behaviors caused wasn’t wasn’t [always] deliberate, and that they’re being “punished” too. It’s not an excuse, but it is an unfortunate reality that you have to acknowledge as an adult.
Nowadays we’re still behind but we have a pretty good idea of what it takes to be a decent parent and partner. We can use that and learn from the mistakes of the people before us to move forward without allowing the cycle to repeat, or we can just dwell on the past, whine and get upset to no avail.
It’s up to you.
Congratulations on having the self awareness and making the effort to break the generational cycle of trauma and pain. You're a hero!
Thanks man
This is my current situation. I’ve recently had a major panic attack with paranoia that sent me into a hospital. I felt stuck and have moments I still fill stuck. Like I have trouble getting pass my past. The thoughts recycle in my mind often. I just want them to stop so I can live life completely. I’m in therapy and truly want to heal once and for all at 41. It’s been too long that these hurts have kept me down. Thank you for sharing, I pray I get through this and my life be used to help someone else.
@@Teebeetravels can you go no contact? That’s the only thing that worked for me, after 30 years. It was like I finally broke the surface of the water and could breath. I could focus on what was in front of me without that toxic chatter cluttering my mind. Felt like myself again and haven’t felt that since I was a boy.
His description on self compassion and seeing your reactions as understandable really hits home for me. The turning point in my mental health came when I was having a panic attack at work from being overwhelmed. I ran to the back and sat down to wait for it to pass while tears streamed down my face. Even if my coworkers tried to offer kind words or advice, the overly critical voice in my head would twist it into something awful. "You're doing a great job" (You're pathetic for wanting praise). "Try drinking some water" (You can't even take care of yourself)."Take some deep breaths" (You can't even control your own emotions). "Things will get better" (You're overreacting. Stop acting like a child). "Go take a break" (You're a burden. They were depending on you and you've failed them). The only one who left the voice silent said something along the lines of, "Yeah, it can get pretty hectic out there..." There was no expectancy to calm down. It was the first time anyone ever gave me affirmation during a difficult time. I think that's what lead me to start trusting how I felt more and accepting myself, disorders and all. I'm still thankful to him to this day
Yes, validation that our pain is real, and encouragement that we are entitled to our emotions-that we might give ourselves to fully feel them, and be supported in doing so- that is everything to me...a special shout out to those who have done that for me 💕🙏 🙂
Holy shit! My inner voice has said things along the same lines only a lot meaner. He's an asshole at times.
This was very relatable. Thank you for sharing.
That's so beautiful that you have a very moment that one human changed your life, your path, your mindset. Much love to you om your journey ❤
I love this story. It’s helping me see a better way to talk to myself during those times.
When you realize that nothing is wrong with you and nothing ever was.
I don't understand this comment. Can someone explain please??
@@geeblock6789 (from another comment) “the hardest realization is when you come to understand that you have always been okay.”
Also kinda what Dr. Bessel said from 6:19-6:24. Hope this helps
Well done
@@geeblock6789 I think she's overstating it. Being in the present doesn't mean you have no problems to solve from the past. That sounds a wee bit too much like new age kooks. There could still be something wrong in the sense of a skills gap or whatever. But, no, there's nothing intrinsically wrong with you, like earlier where he talks about self-loathing that was lifted in the MDMA study.
This comment 👍
I've been suffering from CPTSD for a long time because of childhood trauma. I hated myself, hated others, was bitter, resentful, and had terrible anxiety around other people. One day I heard that Psilocybin mushrooms and Ayahuasca (not at the same time) can help with trauma and negative self talk. I was desperate and gave both of them a go. It was like all the dark nasty thoughts were washed away and cleaned out of my soul. I saw light and joy in the small things and for the first time in my life I felt unconditional love for myself. After both of them you won't go from zero to hero, you still need to put in some healing work, but it goes by much faster than conventional therapy.
You can also try keto
Agreed. Something happeened 2.5 years ago and I was so traumatised with it. Took me several months to get rid of the depression and anxiety through psychoterapy, but the OCD triggered by the trauma persisted. Then I took psilocybin and went on a "trip". The compulsion is effectively gone. I still suffer some remnants of the trauma, but at least I can function like a normal human being and enjoy life now. I'm starting my EMDR therapy to get rid of these remnants, so I will not accidentally hurt the people around me. Wish me luck!
Thank you for sharing this!!!
Glad you are starting to heal
Where did you find Psilocybin mushrooms and Ayahuasca? I can't seem to find connections and would greatly appreciate info. I also have C-PTSD from a narcissistic mother.
Mind over Doesn’t Matter should be the motto. I realized we are victims because we don’t know how to detach from trauma so we keep thinking it can happen again. Once you do the work and see how far you’ve come, that is powerful. Little Julie didn’t have anyone, but now she’s got me, and she’s safe ❤
Powerful statement. Thank you for sharing!
What about meditation, journaling, quiet contemplation, and reading books on topic? That's what I did. It's a good method.
The thing about those methods (first three at least) is that it involves sitting quietly with yourself, and that has the possibility of going very wrong when you have ptsd or really any disorder involving persistent negative thoughts. It's easy for your mind to go to the traumatic events, resulting in thought spirals and flashbacks which can be overwhelming and put you back in time to the event, re-traumatising yourself.
Don't get me wrong, I think they can be helpful regardless of whether a person has trauma or not, but for people who have trouble being stuck in their mind and thoughts, using other methods to take you out of your mind might be a better first step. I'm glad you found it helpful though. Reading books on trauma with a therapist or with a trauma-informed group if possible is good too.
@@wolfferoni I'm not sure you know what meditation is. It will actually give you the ability to control the madness in your mind by developing your ability to focus. I used to suffer from PTSD and meditation has absolutely been key in my recovery and improvement.
You are so right but I want to add that getting into your body with yoga and movement helps release stored pain, he’s totally correct about those things!
@@wolfferoni have you really tried meditation? Meditation is something which stops thoughts, focuses mind where it should be. Excellent exercise for mind. Meditation helps.
@@27Atulkumar did you mean to be condescending? Because you were.
There are minds out there that cannot meditate as you state. Highly anxious and highly traumatized. Other avenues need to be explored by those.
I would do anything to make this pain stop. I want to feel something good again.
Idk what happened it was never your fault
How are you now?
I understand you. I too feel pain and anger every day.😢
I'm healing through tell my story on my channel. More to come
I want that for you and everyone reading this.
For me this man is a legend. He has so much compassion to all the patients. And this is so rare in the world of psychiatry.
I recommend his book as well.
I suffered the borderline disorder for over 23 years.
With so much anxiety Not until I came across psilocybin mushrooms treatmentPsilocybin treatment actually saved my life honestly. 6 years totally clean.
Never thought I would be saying this about mushrooms
Microdosing helped me get out of the pit of my worst depressive episode, a three year long episodeenough to start working on my mental health
Can you help with the reliable source I would really appreciate it Many people talk about mushrooms and psychedelics but nobody talks about where to get them. Very hard to get a reliable source here in Germany. Really need
Yes, dr.porass. I have the same experience with anxiety, depression, PTSD and addiction and Mushrooms definitely made a huge huge difference to why am clean today.
The shroom experience stands as my most remarkable journey, an awe-inspiring encounter that left an indelible mark of amazement.
He’s on insta?
Hey you. Yes, you. You're probably scrolling through the comments, like I am, reading all these motivational comments. If you are reading this at night, you should get some sleep, and don't stress about everything going on in the world, or what you are going through. Don't dwell on things from the past, don't stress on your future. Just live your life, because you only get one. Do whatever makes you happy, not what other people want from you. For me, I'm gonna wake up tomorrow morning, get hit the gym, and cherish life for the amazing blessing that it is. I hope you do the same and have an amazing day as well!
Well said!
Thank you
Thank you Dream Surfer! Reading your comment felt like friend giving me a pep talk! I hope you are having a beautiful day!
thank you so much❤️
i love u. thank u for this ♡
Mushrooms made me realize it is pointless to waste my mind away dwelling on past trauma and being too afraid to overcome my social anxiety. I've never actually felt love the way I did on a 6 gram trip with some friends, it was incredible. Delta-8 THC has also been a major help with dissolving anxiety and allowing me to relax.
I took delta 8 woke up with my hear beating so fast and didn't recover for 2 days. Could barely walk answer complex question and even though I could talk I was barely there.
@@mulan7015 It happens to me as well which is why I keep CBD products on hand to counteract it in case that happens. Peppercorn helps as well.
@77ranko I'm just gonna guess that maybe the flower seed in question was morning glory which produces LSA, but that's just my guess. I have had high heartbeat rates from LSD experiences especially when combined with marijuana - not fun when that happens. You just have to be careful with dosage and external environment when using psychedelics because using them properly leads to extraordinary life-changing psychological improvements due to the neurogenesis effect. Psilocybin mushrooms will not kill you and neither will LSD as long as you don't somehow take an impossibly massive dose.
I prefer natural poppies ground-up in a liquid form called heroin, which relieves my anxiety
@@rawfoodphilosophy7061 No way in hell I would ever consider using heroin, but I guess whatever floats your boat.
Some good points but I'd add this too: As someone who has 'been there', a doc myself, I believe TRAUMA+ DEPRESSION is the EMOTIONS we suppress. Why? Because no one ever screams out and wails at funerals, or cries in public, or expresses EMOTIONS when traumas happen because we are taught as kids NOT to show emotions. Watch a funeral from India or Iran and folks wail and scream and cry--letting out the grief. We Americans/Westerners keep in IN and it destroys our health both physically and mentally. Get the emotions OUT of you and heal. SCREAM it out somewhere you can; underwater in waist deep water with a partner lock arms back to back and SCREAM your guts out. Try primal screaming. EMDR, drugs, mushrooms, movement, psychedelics...etc. All go AROUND the emotional roots! Get it out of you! We all have it buried. I worked with severely abused teens to develop the underwater techniques and they'd cuss me out until ONE scream got out--then they'd go for it til exhausted. It worked! Talk is USELESS until the emotional charges buried surface. Wail on a punching bag, scream, and once you start? Everything UNDER it comes out too. When that's done? THEN you can 'talk' about it, yoga, act, etc. neurofeedback...and release it FOREVER. Come ON! Take YOUR power back! abusers, traumas, and, dwelling on it takes it, grief takes it--GET YOUR POWER BACK. You do not need MDMA. You just need to TAKE YOUR POWER BACK.
I was a pschological mess for 30 years. I think I got it mostly now, but I don't know if I will ever be whole again.
What I can say is that many things (those I know something about) Mr. van der Kolk says are spot on. For example it is fundamental to learn self-compassion. Not pity, but compassion. It took me 15 years with two therapies of a combined 4,5 years and work on my own to understand what really happened to me. I never understood how crazy and destructive my experiences were until I really looked into them.
Now I understand and so I undertsand how I got so messed up. It helps me tremendously to process those emotions so they can fade away.
My doctors scoff at how I cured myself of the effects of long term, chronic stress. Eye movement exercises, vagus nerve reset, yin yoga, c1-c5 strengthening, and all weather, outdoor experiences transformed my mind and reconnected me with my body.
Please continue to push for these treatments! I had to figure it all out on my own, while I was broken! 22 years of misdiagnosis/inappropriate pharmaceuticals led me to near death.
Oh I’m so glad you are still here to share your message …..
How did you do vagus nerve reset?
@@rishaa682 just search it on youtube, there are many videos that show you how.
Your doctors don’t need your valuable time. Great job curing yourself!
great advice ...thank you 😊
I did a couple sessions of EMDR therapy and it drastically changed the direction of my life. I’m so proud of myself for deciding to act on my trauma. As a result, I have a healthy attachment with my husband and children, and also achieved my academic and career goals.
I'm so happy for you!!!! Congratulations on your growth! 😁
EMDR is the most incredible thing! I truly can't believe what a difference it makes.
Can i do it by myself
@@beenishakram6322 I wouldn’t. You need someone highly experienced. You wouldn’t want something to go wrong and be stuck in the worst part of your trauma
Sounds too good to be true. Shapiro, is that you?
I started EMDR a few months ago and it has been very effective. This is the first actual treatment for trauma that I've had since my stress issues first started in 2008. A lot of people, including dozens of medical professionals, kept insisting that my experiences weren't traumatic enough to cause the reactions I was having. They kept insisting that I just needed to be pressured more, so things kept on escalating for a long, long time. It's nice that a few people are finally acknowledging that I am indeed as stressed and traumatized as I claim to be, but there are still many, including my own family, who continue to insist that I am overreacting.
EMDR works by activating both sides of the brain. That's what looking back and forth is for. In my case, rather than follow fingers, I look at equidistant stationary objects. Alternating tapping your hands or your feet works too. The idea is to activate both sides of your brain. When you do this while focusing on the memory of your trauma, it gets the subconscious to process that trauma. It's exhausting and emotionally straining, since the brain is doing a lot of work, but it is effective. It's important to have someone trained in EMDR guide you, as dangerous thoughts and emotions can surface. Simple traumas only take one session, while more complex ones can take longer.
EMDR was an incredible experience for me! I went from feeling horrible shame to crying with self compassion by the end of the session. It completely changed my beliefs about a bad experience.
I’ve been about 3 years sober now so I’m staying away from any drug or substance to deal with my trauma (aside from CBD)
I have found that practicing gratitude, even when your not feeling grateful encourages the mind to think positively and with hope. It brings you out of yourself and connects you to being grateful for the ways of the earth and universe.
Congratulations! Keeping your LOVE ALIVE!
Amen
There's a pine tree that a high five (softly) on a walk almost every morning. I am so grateful for that tree.
CBD and gratitude and meditation and contact with others in recovery is helping me also. Thanks for your honest post.
Chant Om Vajrasattwa Hum
I love the production on this. Just little moments like "your voice is too gravely, so maybe we should.." makes the information digestible, non intimidating. And Bessel saying "mdma is sexy" I live for this! Doctors who don't take themselves too seriously
Hahaha I loved the "MDMA is sexy l" line too. Because let's be honest, if MDMA becomes available for those of us with trauma, we'd all do it.
They're researching mdma therapy for those with eating disorders. As someone with an ED, rolling and doing mirror work really helped my ed for a while. If I had access to that type of therapy I would do it in a heart beat, and I know many others it could help.
of course, because if humanises the situation, and that is why it has been produced this way.
Sexy pertains to sex. Many trauma survivors are recovering from sex crimes. Doctors need to use professional and tactful, non-triggering words. Sexy is more of a slang word in the United States. A dance, clothing, a facial expression or way of speaking might be called sexy because they arouse someone sexually.
Sexy is not appropriate as clinical terminology. The doctor could say MDMR is an exciting and effective therapy, but the word sexy implies that the doctor becomes sexually aroused by treating his patient with MDMR.
@@creativecompanion Him saying sexy turned me right off so inappropriate. Stopped listening to him after that.
EMDR changed my life!! I didn’t even realize how much I was living in my trauma body until after I had finished the treatment. It was like seeing the world with new eyes ❤❤
I love hearing this as it’s changing mine as well. I’d tried it in the past without much effect and recently with nearly inconceivable results, I’m gobsmacked.
The first experience was sitting in front of the therapist and following her finger ….im much too people focused and kept looking at her eyes ….so we then tried the auditory approach…but it just wasn’t working. I was frustrated and figured I was one of the outliers.
Fast forward 10yrs and my new therapist recognized CPTSD and recommended I see an EMDR specialist. I was skeptical based on previously but, oh my was in for a shock. In this current approach I sit facing a funky light bar and the therapist is perpendicular to me, just within my peripheral vision. And then we begin and it is some of the most arduous work I’ve done and the fatigue and headaches after are a trip. I feel like I’m wearing a weighted blanket 😂 And some form of magic is taking place …I feel like my brain is a glacier and bit by bit chunks of pain are calving off and being absorbed and dissipating. I have nearly half the daily anxiety as 8 months ago and my physical pain is nearly gone, that was an amazing bonus. Though when I think about it, logical seeing I’m less tense and therefore more relaxed in my body.
I share my experience (when appropriate) to encourage people to try EMDR, and specifically the light technique.
❤starting Mt emdr this week..
It lightened the Pea Soup Black Fog they got me Lost in. With Grenades, Pits n such.
"Yes. It happened to me. But it's over now." I think it can be a good grounding mantra. 😊
Are you sure?
Sounds more like denial....?
@@AnthaKharana how
It’s never over.
I don’t think it denotes denial. I learned in therapy that you have to recognize that the traumatic incident happened in the first place. But at some point, you also have to recognize that it’s over, you are in a new phase in your life, and you now have the opportunity to start healing. If you believe it isn’t over, then it really wouldn’t be over for you and it would continue holding you back.
Do whatever works for you - though if we all were suddenly "healed" by doing this - there would be no need for therapists.
EMDR saved my life by bringing up my “hidden” trauma. I was abused at 4. I became aware at 52!! My wonderful therapist has mentioned you, sir! I am plagued with physical pain no ptsd no anxiety but I KNOW my body pain weakness and tingling are related to the trauma. 😢
Thank you for mentioning physical pain. I was doing bioscans with a holistic nutritionist and she told me the good news AND the bad news was that my body was functioning fine. So I was physically healthy but that it was likely the mental parts that were keeping me exhausted, in pain, and making me feel like there was something wrong.
Tingling and shaking is often a good sign! It can be our bodies trying to let the energy from our nervous systems trauma/threat response move through and out of us. When you feel yourself being triggered, let your body finish what it wants to do to help you survive in that moment- yell, punch something, sprint, tremble (if your body wants to) or shake shake shake it off! 😊 this will help reduce risk of further traumatisation.
How did EMDR help you find out you were abused if you didn't remember the memory to begin with? What memories did you start to work with that led you there?
Trauma alters relationships with the brain and body. Even down to autonomic muscular activation/sequencing of activation. I work with many people who have biomechanical issues from inactive systems due to trauma, that think their pain is fully in their head. It it usually a mix of limbic (safe/unsafe) guarding and imbalances that are extremely structural in nature. Back pain is extremely common with inactive abdominal areas, aka areas that no longer can be flexed/fired appropriately or in sequence. I have written a few articles that may be extremely helpful for you. I was diagnosed myself with severe degeneration of my spine after a terrible car accident. Today I am actually 100% pain free. If you are interested please let me know! Many of my current clients have done EMDR/Brain Retraining/Gupta etc in the past as well.
🥺🥺🥺
Embrace it, wallow in it, feel the pain, as soon as I stopped fighting it, was when I began to be able to heal.
One thing that helps me, is saying to myself “what if it never happened “ and I try to live my life that way instead of dwelling on it and letting it bother me. Been molested at a young age distorted my way of thinking as I got older.
My life trauma is abundant and it never bothered me until I became an adult
That is one, heavy duty statement...that points to volumes. I wish you a loving journey, towards healing peace.
Same. It never bothered me until I became a parent. The stress, the extra responsibilities, the lack of sleep spiralled me into depression, anxiety and panic attacks. I'm in therapy for a year and a half now, and I still have the panic attacks and anxiety, I'm just beginning to scratch the surface of how to heal myself.
Same
Yes, that’s the way it seems to work. Wishing you all, and myself, self compassion and self acceptance ❤️❤️❤️
I put mine away to be dealt with later, while in survival mode. My body succumbed to it (chronic pain, OA) and I’m face to face with it now
I’m an advanced EMDR Therapist in Los Angeles and a fan of Bessels work for many years now. I’m also a Yoga Therapist, Trauma and Addiction Therapist, and love to witness patients healing. It’s real, and it is experimental, many ways work the same, but some people require different approaches. No matter what, if you’re on the journey to healing, don’t stop! 👊🙏
Can it be used for anxiety in general, not related to one particular trauma/event?
@@gitanodel69 Yes!
@@juliaagata7170 thank you for your reply! Are you a practicioner?
I wish I could have a therapist I could have had a life now I am too old to get help almost 6o and I am dead just waiting for the landlord to kick me out and I will bow out I hope you are able to save the others
@@rebeccairmen9322 don't give up. You are too young. I'm 56 and have been there. So cliche, but so true! It's never too late to start over. I remember many years ago, my mom's friend said at 80: "I don't want to die as miserable as I lived". She was emotionally, physically and verbally abused by her pastor husband for years and didn't tell anyone. She died in peace making a happy life for herself until it was her time. Keep believing that you are healed. EMDR is great. I'm also an EMDR therapist, but only saying this because I didn't believe EMDR could work but it was done on me and it was amazing!!! Try it. Take care.
I am also a trauma survivor. And went through a lot, physically and mentally. I was in third degree depression. Guys it is a very dark place.🙏 Still struggling. I miss old me. I will never get over it.
They tried to snatch my Soul. Find what you love. A puppy? 📚🌱💃
I want to rent a cello for therapy.
Soffegio, Jazz, Blues n' Fiddling. .... I've heard over 100 kinds.
Play w/ the resonance to while away the Winter. I'm old.
But, something should turn your crank. Go on a journey to rediscover it, perhaps.
Ain't been traumatized,but it's good to know few extra things to help someone one day.And to however goes thru it STAY STRONG U GOT THIS
For anyone struggling with trauma- MEDICATION MADE THESE OTHER INTERVENTIONS EFFECTIVE AND POSSIBLE FOR ME. If I wasn’t on medication I would not have been able to benefit from other types of therapy such as yoga, EMDR, etc. Do what you need to do to heal, whether that’s taking medication or not taking medication. ♥️♥️
THANK YOU FOR SAYING THIS. Medication helps A LOT of people! Like he said everyone is different but let's not forget our brains are a part of our body and when there's an issue with it it's still a MEDICAL issue.
Thank u for sayin this. I’m gonna start antidepressants in a few days. I need the extra help & I hope it helps💜
Yes. This.
In many cases, the medications we presently have create a platform to work on these other therapies.
Psychiatric drugs definitely DO help in many lives and should not be shunned. I know this personally and professionally. It should however be used as an adjunct to other treatment modalities just as Dr Van Der Kolk says.
Also the need for the medication should be periodically reevaluated. These drugs were NOT originally intended for lifelong use. We still do not know the effects of prolonged use. I don’t think this should be downplayed but big pharma does.
Which medication u take??
Meditation 🧘♀️ drinking warm calming tea,taking a bath ,coloring,going outside looking at the trees ,getting sun ☀️, drinking lemon water ,wine and hug someone or something helps me . Good luck to all struggling everyday ! 🙏
Great list. I do all of it except I abstain from ALL drugs, liquid (alcohol) and solid. No psychedelics for me, period.
Cloud gazing. I didn't know about it until the pandemic forced dining outside.
ok, you all must have a different kind of depression than me, I couldn't (not wouldn't, couldn't) get out of bed, bathe, brush my hair, let alone go outside, color, work or do exercise, for months on end I couldn't get out of bed.
@@_Y.Not_ I've heard of that. So terrible, really sorry. Good wishes to you.
@@l.w.paradis2108 you are kind, thank you
As a childhood trauma survivor, I am very grateful for this channel and Dr van der Kolk. Even though I myself have discovered benefits of using substances to view traumatic experiences in a REMOTE way, the chemically facilitated method is short-lived. Re-living trauma through psychotherapy also worries me in that it forces someone to focus on the problem.
Gratitude, humility, empathy, re-wiring thought patterns(trauma induced insecurity, self doubt, addiction etc), in my experience, requires looking the other way and investing heavily in re-programming how you perceive your life through repetitive ACTIONS. Until those actions manifest as someone who has subverted all the negative stimuli into advantages, and LIVES a life they can be happy with.
@@pence_sporesonigsellsquali6848 mmmm! Wait for the receptors to demand more enjoyment. They get used to all them substances and upon cell replication more receptor sites appear = more drugs (to get the same high)
"Yes this happened to me but it's over" 😭
I think a lot of people need to hear this.
One day it may be over for me too.
holy shit I loved this mans book and he’s even cooler than I could’ve imagined lmaooooo what a sweet soul
The intrusive flashbacks is probably the hardest, It feels fresh no matter how much time has passed.
Exactly
i hate this, it's driving me crazy
from my own experience, i have been dealing with trauma for 15 years and still counting..
trauma from losing a mother at the young age never be healed, instead acceptance is what is needed.
and Bessel was right these methods might not working for every individuals, i refused to take any meds and EMDR was too painful for me, and so i have found my recovery in Buddhism.
Thich Nath Hanh help me a lot to understand what is happening inside my inner world.
I am glad to say that i found my meds in Buddhism.
we need no outside chemical to have compassion towards ourselves and towards others, our mind is the strongest one that effects our lives.
may all beings be happy..
Childhood trauma can follow you for the rest of your life if you don't get professional help. It can destroy relationships and stop truly growing. Such a great video. ❤
I love this, I have been working in the trauma space for over nine years since my PTSD developed horribly. I have done all of the treatment options here except performing arts. When we avoid the reality of our trauma our brain begins to protect us, it leaves black spots, and then we begin to avoid all options of stress that could trigger our trauma but essentially this leaves our body in a perpetual state of fear - we are in fact scared of ourselves. We need to fully acknowledge the severity of the issue that happened to us no greater or lower than what it was. I recently confronted my father on my childhood trauma, I did not allow him to dismiss or degrade the severity and I was willing to sever my relationship with him completely because I no longer could feel crazy, I was going to live in the reality of how bad he actually was during some pretty horrible years even if he wasn't or couldn't take responsibility. For the last few weeks I have sat in real discomfort but I haven't avoided anything and finally my body is slowing letting go. Anybody who feels injuries are completely healed over night with magic words, closure etc have not experienced pro-longed trauma. The brain needs to rewire and the body needs to heal.
But who understands, and who is there for support? Certainly not 'therapists'.
How did the ecstasy treatment work for you?
@@clovismaez106 Said the self appointed therapist, who projects their unresolved trauma on others.
@@clovismaez106 - I used psylocicibin.
@@yoya4766 hey, I’m sorry to hear you’ve had a bad time with mental health professionals. That really sucks. It is a risk, given psychotherapy has its roots in an individualist colonial culture. If people aren’t given the best education and aren’t kept accountable in their practice they can definitely provide bad therapy. When practitioners no longer see themselves as a fellow traveller to their clients (not an expert in the client’s life and needs, but a collaborator in relationship), when they believe themselves immune to having personal issues, this is when they need a new supervisor!! Lol
Mastin kipp also says that safe relationships are a key to healing trauma and I 100% agree, you need a loving environment to get better in
59 years old and just now admitting to myself that I did suffer trauma as a child and it has had a profound impact on my life and the lives of others around me. I did o.k., don't get me wrong. And my life is certainly a picnic compared to many. You know what they say: "If you're under two feet of water and another person's under 20 feet of water; you both drown.". I think trauma is the same way. If I had one piece of advice to share, it would be this: Don't wait as long as I have to seek help. Your life and the lives of those around you depend on your recovery. Cheers!
Emdr has been life changing. I am completing 1 year today. (I have a lot issues from childhood)
This is a miracle Indeed. ❤
~3:28 "And then we studied Yoga. ... Yoga, at the end, was a more effective treatment for PTSD than any of the drugs we had studied. But I've yet to see a psychopharmacology clinic being transformed to a yoga studio."
I agree with you.i get so much from yoga. I walk a lot.
Compassion is key !
Listen to your body it does tell you how to heal
As a therapist i did EMDR and I've been a patient for years. Its amazing the miracles i saw with children teens and adults.
10 sessions of EMDR therapy helped me with dealing with the debilitating and disabling effects of PTSD. The best and most profound thing is that after experiencing frequent nightmares for around 9 years, the EMDR has almost eliminated the nightmares associated with the trauma. Having said that, for me the EMDR therapy was an extremely confronting experience and one of the most difficult things I've ever had to go through. Nonetheless, it was completely necessary and 100% worth it for the end result.
I've found Dungeons and Dragons to be incredibly healing. A bit like with theatre, it allows your body to feel other things. The added level? The ability to react in the moment or improvise and the shared story and memories you have with ther other people at your table. It was a huge turning point and incredibly freeing.
Agree!! Helps you let go of the OCD a little, also. SUPER BORING if you over think things too much.
DnD became my motivation to start therapy and confront my trauma. The coping skills that I learned during therapy was something I could practice during DnD and also being able to discuss lines, veils and boundaries became an important part of my toolkit.
Using meditation, therapy, EMDR and yin yoga on a regular basis helped *a lot*. Recently I started doing more Yang poses and I am discovering that I am ready for those now. I had to allow myself to feel sad and vulnerable and see the mad house for what it truly was:
A mad house ruled by unspoken expectations, demands and self censoring for the sake of survival. Feeling my own body, feeling that I can and am allowed to take up space is what makes emotional regulation a whole lot easier. I feel options, I feel like I can finally ask:
'what did you mean with that?'
Instead of assuming what drives the other person.
Thank you for sharing this! One of my children (who was traumatized several years ago at school) is not interested in theatre but IS interested in D&D. But I also can see how important it is to continue to support cosplay and other forms of "theatre" (roll play) that she's already interested in. Your comment really contextualized something for me as a parent. 🙂
I do roleplay gaming and have ptsd as well and yes that's actually true I just realised that it can actually help. Especially being able to embody characters who are brave and strong and knows how to defend themself it is very empowering
1) Psychotherapy
Yes, doing the shadow works is an unbelievable experience. First time I let that happen I thought it was magic. There are things in you that have never seen the light. You think of them so much that you don't feel they are not addressed, but you've never let the light do its thing when all you did is protect them by keeping inside. One time I felt like I slipped over the Grand Canyon, it is a very physical experience and a marvelous one where you get to see the masks you're wearing.
2) Acting
Oh, yes! As an artist I was watching the video thinking "oh man not another yoga and therapy video". Sing, dance, act. We all have these needs and these are the ones that bring beauty in life alongside sex, affection and compassion. Just listening to a song and singing it with utmost empathy for the lyrics will make you feel like you're part of the world and not just floating over it.
3) MDMA
I did MDMA first when I was 19. In the meantime I have stopped and I would highly recommend educating yourself about it a lot before trying it unless you can do it in an environment where you are assisted by therapists. It's MDMA that first put my mind into a place beyond black and white, beyond enemies and victims and beyond self defense. Again, doing it without therapy will help, but it won't fix the problem.
4) My own advice: Journaling
When we feel at our worst is not because we're too deep within ourselves, it's because we've lost touch with ourselves. Journaling is a beautiful way to take yourself out on a date and to find out that what you really needed was a little bit of your own, focused company.
Wishing you all the very best!
psychedelics have seriously been a godsend in my recovery. i don’t think i would have had the breakthroughs that i’ve had without them. well, maybe i would have, however they helped me process things much quicker. i’ve had many uncomfortable trips and you know, i’m SO grateful for those experiences.
I’ve been microdosing for my trauma and shortly about to take my first macrodose. I’m nervous but ready to heal. Microdosing has already helped so much.
Whoever out there who is suffering from PTSD... it's not your fault. You didn't ask to have it. It had happened to you through unfortunate events.
You can get through it. Get the help you need, and then you can move on.
But neoliberalism says it’s your fault
Idk why but I felt like this comment spoke directly to me. Thanks for the encouragement ! 👍
How do you get through it? I actually thought I was better but is not so.
@lisas_medsOnInstagramSells
I have microdosed shrooms with amazing results and thought it would last forever but I have had horrible trauma responses lately.
It isn’t my fault perhaps… but the end is the same. My life is ruined.
What I take from this, without Dr. van der Kolk saying it, is that trauma is the experience of blaming oneself for a terrible event resulting in self-loathing--and a cycle of continued blame, shame, anxiety and depression that is imprinted physically in our brains, minds and bodies. The root is not the event itself, but the interpretation of it in ways that wound and continue to damage ourselves. The methods all share the element of re-experiencing ourselves in our minds and bodies (which are, ultimately, one) in ways that are more accurate and thus health-giving.
No. Not everyone experiencing trauma feels shame and blames him/herself. I know I don’t, I’m fully aware who the perpetratos are and I blame them.
Sounds like we are in agreement. I wrote, "in ways that are more accurate" which would include blaming those who are blameworthy, not oneself if one is not. Sounds like you disagree with Dr. van der Kolk about what trauma is. Perhaps another person who studies trauma can provide you with a more useful description for your circumstances. Best of luck.
@@hightide4782 If that's what he says, then in my opinion he is obviously mistaken. No event is "inherently traumatizing" because events are interpreted and experience and no outsider to that subjective interpretation or experience can make definitive claims about it. There are many examples of events that would seem to be inevitably traumatizing but are not from war to incarceration to extreme deprivation. In fact, some people choose these experiences again. That's not to say that most people aren't traumatize by these events, it's to say that humans are infinitely variable and resilient and we cannot a priori describe an experience and its effects on another person.
@@hightide4782 I think you misunderstand me. It's not for me to say what is traumatizing to another person--nor to say what is NOT traumatizing. My position is that no one can say that about another person's experience.
@@DulceN good for you, mate. Some trauma we can just excise by killing the perpetrator, and some is just the system itself and you can't do anything about it.
Bessel is a great spirit. Thanks to him I found the courage to pick up kickboxing and it definitely helping me with CPTSD. Recently I have been able to go to a restaurant for the first time in many years. I know its small for most but for me this was a big step. Yoga, boxing, psyllocobin, self affirmations are some of the things I do that help me bit by bit. CPTSD can be so bad I wish everyone recovery, peace and self-love.
How do you dose the mushrooms ?
The wiggling fingers and eye movements the Dr. describes as healing for trauma reminds me of how indescribably profound and meaningful my trip with psilocybin (mushrooms) was a few months ago that miraculously healed my depression and anxiety literally overnight. Its like I woke up a different person. There is still work to do and will be ongoing but it felt like a TON of baggage had been lifted and taken away. When you're eyes are closed and you see these stunningly beautiful geometric shapes and lines, some fluid all while being still and calm, you're breathing almost indiscernible... feeling the vibrations and music flowing through you from head to toe, is something I will never forget. I did realize how much fear I had since my childhood trauma and trusting of others when I was fooling myself thinking all these years that I was loving when I was actually lacking true love for myself and others. You'll weep, and laugh, and heal. Peace.
i met you uears ago at st vincent charity hospital where your grandaughter worked. studied your work in my phd work etc.. you are truly a gift to the fiel of trauma. you did not give up on ptsd patients. blessings.
My former husband and I both, if you can imagine, had PTSD from an 'incident' in Belfast from where he originally comes. I could write forever on the impact this had on us and our lives but I imagine you are all well aware. I started reading a lot of Eastern philosophy and psychology and learned that several thousand years ago, when Lao Tzu was writing, there was this concept of gentleness that had become so hard for me. To be self-compassionate. To deal with our issues with gentle lovingkindness. I also did shiatsu, where I learned the power of the body to heal us emotionally and spiritually in the most direct way. I realised that we don't just suppress the darker emotions such as fear and anger but also love and kindness and warmth. This helped me actually re-experience those things and were immensely helpful. We have this cultural tendency in the West to scorn emotion and are more focused on 'Awakening the Giant Within' (no offense to the author, some people do need that). PTSD can be an opportunity to become congruent with ourselves in a way that nothing else does. Not that we wouldn't benefit from never experiencing it, of course. In some way, I believe, we all suffer trauma. Maybe not Trauma or TRAUMA but trauma or emotional disconnection from ourselves. Kindness to all of you!
I felt like I was alone in the world at all times. I was afraid to show or have feelings towards anyone who would not reciprocate them. I noticed I was holding back in order not to be rejected or abandoned, so I decided to go against what my fear was telling me and all of a sudden I felt connected to myself and others again, I felt better instantly, not only due to acknowledging my feelings, but due to properly perceiving and admitting what was happening and the courage I had at that moment to be who I am, instead of hiding. I was never taught to express my emotions, on the contrary. Having to learn all these things by myself at 32 has been... Hell. I think I've reached rock bottom and am now pushing myself off it.
12y of therapy, 3y meditation, discharged from 2x hypnotherapies 15 psychiatrists, antidepressants, ketamine infusions.. Pff.. Killing the messenger isn't the way. It took me 5 years to start therapy using mushrooms and dmt and now I'm truly healing. Facing my shadow. Scary as hell, hurts a lot sometimes, but it's worth it. Along with that diet changes (carnivore), place I lived, people I talked and supplements. Healing is wonderful.
Thanks doctor. I’ve been living with a traumatic event that happened 17 years ago and it finally is starting to truly unrival with these practices.
I have been doing a lot of praying, journaling, meditation, therapy and weight lifting to release trauma. It has been working tremendously in just a month
Do you think we as Christians should avoid yoga? I am so desperate for healing?
@@womenofgodunited I think it all depends on how you’re using yoga. If you’re doing yoga as a meditation tool and as another form of working out, I personally dint see anything wrong with it.
@@cassandragrayes6149 that you so much for your response 💕 I am reading so much about how yoga is helpful but at the same time want to do what is right in God’s sight
Healing from trauma is very different for everyone, my view is that , you never really heal from trauma, but after a long while you learn to slowly move on from the trauma and after you are moving on in a better direction whether it's working or exercising or even as simple as getting out of the house more often helps you keep the trauma under control, but it never leaves you , you have to learn to let it go
He's one of my personal heroes. Thanks to the body keeps the score, and as time passes, I've come to understand more things about myself, my body, and my life that before felt too painful, disorienting and difficult to unravel.
wow #2 really helped me just now. I was feeling anxious and somehow came across this video and clicked it. I lived under a narcissistic parent for many years and the trauma is still there. It doesn't help that I don't have too many people around I can trust. But this video was quite useful to try while I felt alone and by my self.
Just finished The Body Keeps The Score (it took me a while)! What a profound, groundbreaking book. It has completely changed my view on trauma, and has given me hope that there is life saving help available out there. I hope that soon the right therapies will be available to all from low incomes
Absolutely. The world NEEDS affordable therapy !!
Focusing in a goal and working for it, also helps you. The point is to get you mind busy, and not let that small voice of anxiety and depression talking to you. It is ok to let yourself think and analyze all you want about your trauma for a day or a moment, but then you gotta keep moving. Also alcohol is not good, it can make things worse. Good luck in your fight to healing.
Depression doesnt let one to feel anything in life important enough to set as a goal. Even mountains of money and maybe loving partner cannot bring the meaning, not mentioning daily goals such as meditation, etc
I don't fight...I win
Such good advice 🙏. Focussing on yourself and your goals when the world tries to take too much from you from the minute you wake up
What about when your trauma is your fuel and then you realize and combust?
But when we didn't achieve that goal that's when all the trouble starts again
I have severe ptsd and this is on point. The only therapy that has helped me: psychedelics done responsibly and not in a abusive way, yoga, dance, and acting! I was surprised by the acting because I never made the connection to ptsd. It does help because it can make you comfortable again with your internal vulnerability and internal strength in a safe space a tad bit removed from yourself.
Microdosing psylocibin literally saved my life. Without a doubt I wouldn't be alive to write this response to you right now if I hadn't given it a try. Glad to hear you're doing well and I hope you still are. Much love and respect to you Willow.
@@VictoriaMarch13 That's beautiful Victoria. I'm glad you're here to share your experience and your light. Thank you.
No matter your trauma, you got this. My trauma doesnt even compare to most in this world but i suffer. Much love to all the humans out there suffering ❤❤❤
Sending love and healing to everyone dealing with trauma known and unknown!...It is beautiful that we are all here learning and understanding who we are and how to heal in peace and love!
I realized today that my Ptsd has broke something inside me. The break has continued because something inside, ie. my conditioning in life, I kept telling myself to get over it. In essence I was beating myself up for not being able to get past it. I decided today to stop doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result and decided to accept my ptsd. I decided to be compassionate toward myself and love myself through it and I know deep inside me that this is the only path to healing my fear. My heart goes out to those that suffer.
I love how he said "That happened to me a LONG TIME AGO." How do you get over trauma that happens continually?
you cannot begin to heal until you escape the situation you're in that is doing the damage, sadly.
@@michaelchildish that isn't always possible unfortunately, for example if your trauma is rooted in a chronic illness that is ongoing.
@@rosathomas3574 That makes sense. I kinda live it, considering I've got multiple physical and mental health issues going on. But I have no idea how I'd cope with a major and immediately life-threatening illness. :/
@@michaelchildish I'm sorry to hear that. We can only do what we can do and when we reach the limits of what's possible, to be there for ourselves and be as self compassionate as we can. I think you're right though, and where the trauma is interpersonal, I would say the first step is to get out of the situation.
@@rosathomas3574 ah I thank you for your concern, but there are other people far more deserving of it. My life is actually pretty good and I'm just starting to appreciate it. It's taken a bunch of approaches, but Growth Mindset is good as long as it's tempered with realism, bits of the more rational buddhism rather than tibetan mystical stuff that isn't especially helpful, bits of greco-roman philosophy too like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus.
For those who are a bit lost in life, or know they're overly sensitive and want to boost their resilience, Mark Manson is great. For those who need a kinder approach, therapy may be ideal, although the Uncommon Knowledge UK channel has done me some good. I'll get into proper therapy shortly and after a short course I should be my best self 😀
Living with persistent depressive disorder since 2009... diagnosis only at 2019... taking escitalopram (antidepressant) and clozapine (antipsychotic). There is hope for us. I believe it.
Ergo proxy ?
30yrs
It’s doable without medication just takes time and real change
The best thing if it's not genetic is literally get therapy along with it and try to find the root cause of the depression if it's not innate or chemical.
I'm depressed yet I want to be a badass even though I'm a fucking pussy . I have auditory hallucinations on top of it. If they throw you on the streets and you don't want to survive I fell very bad for you. Lost the thrive to succeed and be a badass.
Loved this 🍀... am coming through severe trauma over the years. Letting go of my bad memories more, feeling more positive and stronger - (yet still very tired.) Thank you Dr Bessel.
I got my 200-YTT (Yoga Teacher Training) in 2015 and it's changed my life in ways I never could've foreseen, both personally and professionally. It's been the biggest blessing, and absolutely helps soothe the lingering shadows of trauma. 🕊
Psychedelic is what helped. I took a shrooms in October last year, and again in November. Both trips were negative but not in a scary monster way but more internal and seeing my truths. Obviously the shrooms alone didn't do all the work but they did help me see why I was so down and what I needed to do to change them. Basically, my internal self was so negative and mean and judged everything I did, it shamed me for lying about things and made me feel guilty for things I had done in the past and So I try to be a lot kinder to, and honest with myself and slow down.
Since then my relationship improved, I started communicating my feelings better, I got a raise and WFH, I'm going outside more, I'm willing to learn new things again, and I feel like my mental state is restrengthening. I find I'm getting less angry and trying to overwrite bad habits. I have so much time to myself now and and I finally feel like I have time to process, accept and move on from a lot of shit. I'm still processing, by no means am I free yet, but damn if I don't feel that breeze.
currently on the first stage of realizing the cycles i’ve been in and it’s painful, but i’m happy and proud of you and i hope to get there one day soon
I feel this
Thanks for sharing your story.. I’ll be doing the same … how much did u take and for how many days in a row
Awesome!!!!
EMDR quickly changed my life for the better. I recommend anyone with trauma considers it. The world is a better place for people like the good doctor and the persons who made this video. Thank you.
From what I've read , EMDR is mostly successful with trauma of 1 certain event, not an event that went on for longer than 1 occasion.
I came up with my own exercise. I totally appreciate what he shared. Body Awareness and feeling good in your own skin/body is the key.
Such an expert, and such a gentle soul. I wish I could find a doctor like him.
MDMA made me worse. Music, meditation, and mushrooms saved me. LSD helped me to become aware of my self sabotaging behaviors. Realized I’ve been self sabotaging since I was 10 😬😬. I’m extremely grateful for this research and being able to put a name to what I’ve noticed in family members and experienced myself.
why worse?
Why worse?
My journey has included EMDR, TMS, and DMT/Ayahuasca. MDMA makes me very ill.
I have done EMDR, but I could have done that for the rest of my life and still needed the therapy. I had a lot of failed medication, which led to me doing trancranial magnetic stimulation (tms) a little over a year ago. And I did DMT and ayahuasca since then.
I'm not sure if it was the cocktail or just one of these things that did it, but I'm doing better than ever. I do struggle with emotions and probably always will, but I'm More clear headed than ever. I'm losing weight without trying. And I'm taking real steps toward my future.
I am doing research to help a family member with complex PTSD. I found out massage therapy work the best for them as well as never ever speaking of the trauma, but burying it, thus the entire thing gets to feel like a distant thing that didn't even happen to the person. But first the nightmares need to end. For that, praying to God to help as well as offering support, showing you care, hugs and massage to relax the body was what I saw to work.
Thankyou Bessel 🙏 I have recently found my way to your book "Your Body Keeps the Score" and it resonates deeply. Many moons ago as an inpatient with a long-standing eating disorder as a biproduct of my own trauma, I was introduced to yoga and this is where I started the long road back to re-connecting with a body I had become very alienated from. Thankyou for all your work in this area ❤️
I'm grateful that CZcams recommend this to me.. today, as I am still mourning & crying my heart out as I re-live the 'trauma' of a loved one.. passed away & left me alone :'(
Sorry for your loss :(
Peace to you. May your wounds heal 🙏🏿