Facing Medical Trauma: Practical Tips from Mandy Friedman and Leah Abel
Episode Overview
Mandy and Leah define medical trauma and discuss its various manifestations, including life-altering diagnoses and negative interactions with medical professionals. They emphasise the importance of seeking a trauma-informed therapist and utilising evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy and EMDR. Practical tips for approaching medical settings are shared, including grounding techniques, preparation, and seeking support from trusted individuals. The conversation concludes with insights on navigating challenging situations where resources may limit access to preferred care, highlighting the significance of neurobiological strategies in maintaining a grounded and rational mindset. Listeners are left with practical strategies to use in uncomfortable medical situations, ensuring they feel empowered and supported.
Medical trauma is exactly what it sounds like. It is trauma that occurs within a medical setting, to put it pretty loosely.
Ever wondered how to cope with traumatic experiences in medical settings? In this episode, licensed counselor Mandy Friedman teams up with Leah Abel, a student at Dabur University, to tackle the often-overlooked issue of medical trauma. Mandy, the creator of SNAP: Survivors of Narcissistic and Abusive Personalities, brings her wealth of experience to the table, while Leah shares her academic insights and passion for the topic.
Together, they paint a comprehensive picture of what medical trauma looks like, from life-altering diagnoses to distressing interactions with healthcare professionals. The duo breaks down effective treatment strategies, emphasizing the importance of seeking trauma-informed therapists and utilizing evidence-based methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). They don't just stop at theory; they offer practical tips for approaching medical settings with a grounded mindset.
Whether it's using grounding techniques, preparing for appointments, or leaning on trusted individuals for support, Mandy and Leah provide actionable advice that listeners can immediately put into practice. The episode wraps up with a candid discussion on navigating situations where resources may be limited, stressing the importance of neurobiological strategies to stay calm and rational. This episode is a treasure trove of information and support for anyone grappling with medical trauma.
It’s not just about understanding the trauma but also about empowering yourself to handle future medical encounters with confidence and composure.