Shame and its Toll on Physical Health

There is a connection between chronic shame and increased stress levels, weakened immune system, disrupted sleep patterns, and even the development of physical ailments. The body/mind connection tells us that what happens in the mind shows up in our physical body.

Stress-related Disorders: Shame can be a potent stressor. Chronic activation of the stress response can lead to wear and tear on the body, known as "allostatic load". This state can lead to a range of health problems, including heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and other stress-related disorders. (Allostatic Load and Its Impact on Health: A Systematic Review; Psychother Psychosom. 2021;90(1):11-27. doi: 10.1159/000510696.Epub 2020 Aug 14.)

This is not an exhaustive list of physical issues. These health problems are significant. A consult with a medical doctor and a mental health professional is recommended if not already in place. It is important to take into consideration the genetics involved as well as culture, community, and resources available to address shame.

All of this is to say that addressing shame is imperative to be the healthiest possible in all life areas, and for this blog post especially the physical.

If you would like more information, please contact me at debbie@debrajhackett.com.

Truly,

Debbie Hackett

“Be the Change you Want to See in the World”, Ghandi

debrajhackett.com

debbie@debrajhackett.com