Emotional Abuse is Literally Shrinking Your Brain
EP: 128
Did you know your brain 🧠physically shrinks from cortisol hormone spikes? This week we are diving into the correlation between abuse and the effects it has on your brain.
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When you are in an emotionally abusive relationship you are under high levels of stress for long period of time. Causing a spike in cortisol which can then lead to the shrinking of your hippocampus- the part of your brain where memories are retained and released.
Hence why many who have been in these relationships claim they have short term memory loss and confusion.
Research from Stanford University has shown a direct correlation between the shrinking of the hippocampus and high levels of cortisol.
“The brains production of new neurons and laying down connections to others takes place in the hippocampus" (Goleman, 2006, p. 273). Goleman also stated, The hippocampus is especially vulnerable to ongoing emotional distress, because of the damaging effects of cortisol (p. 273). When the body endures ongoing stress, cortisol affects the rate at which neurons are either added or subtracted from the hippocampus. This can have grave results on learning. When the neurons are attacked by cortisol, the hippocampus loses neurons and is reduced in size. In fact, duration of stress is almost as destructive as extreme stress. Goleman explained, Cortisol stimulates the amygdala while it impairs the hippocampus, forcing our attention onto the emotions we feel, while restricting our ability to take in new information (pp. 273-274).” -By Kim Saeed - Author, Researcher, Educator
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LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Let’s Talk: Unfiltered Conversations with Real Women
This event will be focused on cultivating connection, healing, and providing a safe space to ask hard questions. The Relationship Recovery x She Leads are dedicated to creating an empowering and supportive atmosphere where you can feel welcomed, safe, and supported. Live event on February 5, 2023 in Bountiful Utah. https://www.letstalkevent.info
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Learn more about a 4-week intensive to explore your current situation and decide if you should stay or leave your relationship
Should I Stay
or Should I Go?
Should I stay in this relationship, choose to recommit, and figure
out what needs to change, or should I end this relationship and give myself permission to leave and heal on my own?
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If you are asking any of these questions, this 4 week clarity intensive is for you
Our
Listeners
Favorite
Moments:
6:56- Hollywood Hot Takes. Tiffany takes on Sister Wives
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13:01- How your brain is physically affected by emotional abuse
15:38- Different parts of your brain, hippocampus and amygdala and how they are affected
17:03- It's important that we remember that if we've been through these situations, we can get the right kind of help.
25:29- Affirmation of the week: "I refuse to overthink my situation, but instead choose to fill my answer.My heart will lead me to clarity and I trust its wisdom."
Links Mentioned in Episode:
Episode Tools & Resources:
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Let's Talk: Unfiltered Conversation with Real Women
Should I Stay or Should I Go 4 Week Intensive
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