Trauma, Shame, and Being Enough
Psychotherapist Dr. Patti Ashley
In her TEDxCU talk, Patti delves into the pervasive issue of “chronic not-enoughness”—the deep-seated belief of personal inadequacy that many individuals experience.
Patti explains that early childhood experiences, societal pressures, and historical child-rearing practices contribute significantly to feelings of shame and unworthiness. She emphasises that these internalised beliefs can disrupt neural connections related to love and belonging, leading to a persistent sense of not being “enough.”
To counteract these negative patterns, Patti advocates for:
- Mindfulness: Staying present to regulate emotions and reduce the impact of past traumas.
- Self-Compassion: Practicing kindness toward oneself to rebuild self-worth.
- Creativity: Engaging in creative activities to foster neuroplasticity and healing.
By addressing and reframing these deep-seated beliefs, you can cultivate a sense of “enoughness,” leading to improved mental health and emotional well-being.
This is an empowering and enlightening presentation; you can see the full TEDx talk below:
