Guilt and Shame: Navigating the Emotional Maze with Jeffrey Brandler
When guilt and shame and remorse and self-loathing come in, people then do things to make them feel worse about themselves. It becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Ever felt weighed down by guilt or shame? You're not alone. In this episode of 'Brandler Bits', therapist Jeffrey M. Brandler dives into these heavy emotions, treating them like unwelcome but familiar relatives who drop by unannounced. He breaks down the difference between healthy and unhealthy guilt and shame, making it clear why some of these feelings are actually necessary for our moral compass, while others can be downright toxic.
Healthy guilt nudges us to make amends, but unhealthy guilt and shame can trap us in a cycle of self-blame and worthlessness. Jeffrey doesn't just leave you with definitions, though. He offers practical strategies to help you untangle these emotions. From learning to separate past mistakes from your present self to recognizing your positive qualities, Jeffrey's advice is both compassionate and actionable. He also emphasizes the importance of seeking support, whether it's from friends, support groups, or therapists.
If you're struggling with these emotions, this episode is like a mini therapy session you can carry in your pocket. Tune in to learn how to break free from the toxic grip of guilt and shame and start your journey towards personal growth.