Information about shame, including their symptoms, potential treatments, useful tips you can try now and into the future, and how to seek professional help.
Emotional Wellbeing
Let’s talk about shame
Overview
A complex emotion that often develops from early childhood experiences, trauma, or societal expectations and pressures. While some shame can serve as a protective mechanism by helping us maintain social bonds and moral behaviour, excessive or chronic shame can severely impact mental health, relationships, and self-worth. This toxic shame often leads to isolation, self-criticism, and difficulty accepting support from others. Understanding the difference between healthy and unhealthy shame is crucial for emotional well-being.
Symptoms
What you might experience
Feelings of shame can vary greatly among individuals.
Self-Criticism
Persistent negative internal dialogue that diminishes self-worth and creates harsh self-judgment.
Social Withdrawal
Tendency to pull away from social connections and isolate oneself from friends and family.
Perfectionism
Setting unrealistically high standards and experiencing intense fear of making mistakes or failing.
Physical Manifestations
Body language that reflects inner shame, including poor posture and difficulty maintaining eye contact.
Treatments
What Works: Treatments with Backup
Several therapeutic approaches can help address shame, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) which helps reframe negative thought patterns, self-compassion practices that foster a kinder relationship with oneself, and help from a psychologist who provides both support and practical coping strategies.
Tips & Tricks
Try for today
Let’s focus on what you can do right now, manageable and simple strategies that can help you navigate through the day. Here are some suggestions for “Try for today”:
Tips & Tricks
Try for tomorrow
Now, let’s focus on what you can do to grow and feel more yourself. Here we share some proactive strategies and resources that can help you not just survive, but thrive, as you journey towards managing feelings of shame.
Seek Help
When to seek professional help
It’s important to seek professional support when shame begins to significantly impact your daily functioning, especially if you’re experiencing persistent depression or anxiety. Professional help is crucial if you’re having thoughts of self-harm or when self-help strategies alone aren’t providing enough relief. Remember that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Dr Stephanie Stewart
Psychologist
Stephanie is an AHPRA-registered Psychologist, and is dedicated to helping individuals lead fulfilling lives. Learn more about Dr Stephanie
