The Hidden Costs of Resilience: Insights from a War Survivor

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Helen Sairany, a war survivor from Iraq. We dive deep into the world of trauma and how it can shape our lives.

Helen shares her incredibly brave story of surviving war as a Kurdish child. Together, we talk about the psychological effects of trauma, the importance of feeling safe, and why we need a world that understands and supports people who've been through tough times.

It's a powerful conversation about community, connection, and learning to be kind to ourselves.

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3800+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction

01:10 - Dr. Sairany's Background

01:24 - The Impact of War

03:34 - Connection vs. Protection

04:53 - Trauma and Sensitivity

07:23 - Struggles with Safety

09:44 - Coping Mechanisms

11:19 - Understanding Emotional Responses

13:15 - Healing as a Process

17:23 - The Importance of the Present

18:21 - The Healing Journey

20:22 - Feeling Like an Outsider

21:20 - Subconscious Identity Struggles

22:05 - The Price of Authenticity

24:09 - Importance of Safe Communities

25:04 - Quality Over Quantity in Friendships

26:29 - The Power of Friendship

27:09 - The Role of Professionals in Healing

29:03 - Understanding Trauma Beyond War

30:16 - The ACE Study's Importance

32:51 - Burnout in Medical Professionals

35:23 - Trauma's Overwhelming Nature

40:14 - Moral Injury in Healthcare

43:43 - The Cost of Change

45:06 - Delayed Action in Mental Health

45:53 - Awareness of Trauma in Society

49:17 - Moving from Head to Body

50:29 - Compassionate Connection

56:18 - Wisdom from a Trauma Survivor