Shame and guilt can exacerbate the effects of trauma from "summary" of The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.
Shame and guilt are emotions that can intensify the impact of trauma on an individual. When a person feels ashamed or guilty about what happened to them, it can lead to a deep sense of self-blame and worthlessness. This self-blame can reinforce negative beliefs about oneself and contribute to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. Moreover, shame and guilt can prevent individuals from seeking help or support, as they may believe that they do not deserve it or that they are unworthy of help. This can further isolate the individual and exacerbate feelings of loneliness and disconnection from others. In addition, shame and guilt can manifest in physical symptoms such as chronic pain, digestive issues, and insomnia. These physical symptoms can further perpetuate the cycle of trauma by keeping the body in a state of heightened arousal and stress. Furthermore, shame and guilt can impact relationships with others, as individuals may struggle to trust or open up to others due to feelings of unworthiness or fear of judgment. This can lead to further social isolation and loneliness, which can worsen the effects of trauma on an individual's mental health.- The presence of shame and guilt can intensify the effects of trauma by reinforcing negative beliefs about oneself, preventing individuals from seeking help, manifesting in physical symptoms, and impacting relationships with others. It is important for individuals to address and work through these feelings in order to heal from trauma and move towards a place of self-compassion and self-acceptance.
