Dr. Shaili Jain on PTSD: Understanding Trauma and Finding Hope
It's when they become unspeakable that PTSD thrives, and sometimes survivors want to speak, but society isn't ready to hear them.
Ever wondered how trauma impacts the mind and what it takes to heal? In this episode of 'Mental Illness Happy Hour', host Paul Gilmartin sits down with Dr. Shaili Jain, a Stanford psychiatrist with over two decades of experience in treating PTSD. Dr. Jain has worked with thousands of individuals, from combat veterans to survivors of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.
Her insights are profound and deeply empathetic, making this episode a must-listen for anyone affected by trauma or seeking to support a loved one through it. Dr. Jain delves into the symptoms and various treatment options for PTSD, including traditional trauma-focused psychotherapies like cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure. She also explores mind-body approaches that can offer additional pathways to healing.
One of the most compelling parts of the conversation is her discussion on how societal movements, like Me Too, can trigger PTSD survivors and why it's crucial for society to be trauma-literate. Listeners will find comfort in Dr. Jain's compassionate approach as she addresses the shame and guilt often associated with childhood sexual trauma.
She provides practical advice on how to support loved ones dealing with PTSD and emphasizes the importance of open dialogue in breaking the silence that allows PTSD to thrive. As Dr. Jain poignantly notes, 'It's when they become unspeakable that PTSD thrives, and sometimes survivors want to speak, but society isn't ready to hear them'.
Whether you're directly affected by PTSD or want to understand it better to help someone you care about, this episode offers valuable insights and a sense of hope. Tune in for a heartfelt and informative discussion that underscores the importance of empathy and understanding in the journey toward healing.