Episode 27:- Healing Invisible Wounds: Trauma’s Impact on Chronic Pain and Autoimmune Disorders

Growing Tall Poppies

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Welcome back to Growing Tall Poppies, where we explore the journey from trauma to post-traumatic growth. In today’s insightful solo episode, Dr. Nat Green delves into a topic that's gaining increasing attention—the connection between trauma and invisible conditions such as chronic pain and autoimmune disorders.

Dr. Nat unpacks how trauma—whether it be emotional, psychological, or physical—can deeply impact the body’s physiological systems. She highlights the importance of the mind-body connection, how unresolved trauma can trigger chronic inflammation, heightened pain sensitivity, and immune system dysregulation. This episode is a must-listen for those dealing with chronic illnesses, unexplained physical symptoms, or autoimmune conditions and wondering whether there’s a link to past trauma.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How trauma can manifest physically in the body
• The science behind the mind-body connection
• The impact of unresolved trauma on chronic pain and autoimmune disorders
• The role of stress, inflammation, and nervous system dysregulation
• Promising therapies for moving towards healing trauma-related chronic conditions

Key Takeaways:

• Trauma affects not only mental health but also physical health, particularly through chronic stress and inflammation.
• Chronic pain and autoimmune disorders often develop as a result of unprocessed trauma.
• Healing involves addressing both the physical and emotional layers of trauma.
• Trauma-informed care, TRE (Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises), and somatic therapies can be integral to managing chronic pain and autoimmune symptoms.
• Self-compassion, community support, and mind-body practices are essential steps in your recovery journey.

Dr. Nat also reminds listeners about her nomination for the International Women in Podcasting Awards sharing her heartfelt gratitude and invites listeners to show their support by voting.
Please vote for Dr Nat Green and Growing Tall Poppies in the Best Psychology Podcast category.
https://womeninpodcasting.net/growing-tall-poppies/

Resources mentioned:

• "The Body Keeps the Score" book by Bessel van der Kolk

New Resource:- New Book by Nichi Morrin on Invisible Conditions ("Girl, Get Out Of The Freaking Car" )
available through her Website: https://www.thesuccessfulzebra.com au

Whether you're a trauma survivor, or supporting someone through trauma, or simply interested in personal growth, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable tools to help you thrive beyond adversity.

If this episode resonates with you then I'd love for you to hit SUBSCRIBE so you can keep updated with each new episode as soon as it's released and we'd be most grateful if you would give us a RATING as well. You can also find me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drnatgreen/ or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DrNatalieGreen
Intro and Outro music: Inspired Ambient by Playsound.
Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be deemed or treated as psychological treatment or to replace the need for psychological treatment.