Combatting Shame

Shame. A big word with lots of negative impact.

My teachers have always said: guilt is feeling bad for something you have done. Shame is: I am bad. 

And shame dogs us day in and day out. It is transmitted through generations. When I ask client to think of other family members who might feel shameful or ashamed of who they are, they can almost always think of people who have come before who exhibited the signs that they believed they were wrong or bad at their very core.

When we carry shame within us - and often people can sense where the shame 'lives' in their bodies - we act and react out of unconscious urges. Old beliefs about ourselves.

Here, from an article Breaking the Cycle of Shame are the some of the self-destructive behaviors shame can initiate from Psych Central: https://psychcentral.com/lib/breaking-the-cycle-of-shame-and-self-destructive-behavior/

• Hidden shame often drives self-destructive behaviors and other psychological symptoms such as rage, avoidance, or addictions.
• Self-destructive behaviors often are an attempt to regulate overpowering, painful feelings but lead to more shame, propelling the self-destructive cycle.
• Secrecy, silence, and out-of-control behaviors fuel shame.
• Shame makes people want to hide and disappear, reinforcing shame.
• Shame is created in children through scolding, judging, criticizing, abandonment, sexual and physical abuse.

Shame can be derailed, healed and left behind. If you are struggling with your shame, call/text 360-432-1236. I can help. We can arrange a free 30 minute consultation and I can share with you how I can help you. Call today.