As a depth-oriented psychotherapist, I believe that symptoms often point to something that demands our attention.

In many cases, that which requires attention is a deep-seated, internalized shame, resulting from a range of difficult circumstances, including trauma, mistreatment, abuse, bullying, and neglect, to name only a few.

Manifestations of Shame

Internalized shame reaches from the depths into the surface of our lives, manifesting in any number of symptom patterns. Here are a few of the ways shame may show up:

Depression

Living under the weight of a prolonged sense of shame often leads to depression. Further, because shame cuts us off from and requires that we defend against parts of the psyche, the energy of this effort is drawn inward, leaving our day-to-day life with little excitement or energy.

Anxiety

Shame often compels us to want to appear perfect to others. The façade of perfectionism, however, is a tremendous burden and requires constant monitoring. This “performance” often leads to anxiety, stress, worry, and obsessive thinking.

Compulsive Behavior

When shame is unbearable, some reach for drugs, alcohol, sex, Internet, shopping, and other crutches to reduce its intensity. In this case, one becomes trapped in the cycle of avoidance and compulsive use.

Traumatic Stress

Trauma often leaves the survivor feeling as though the traumatic event was his or her fault. This sense of fault feeds shame and an enduring story of defectiveness.

Relationship Problems

The defensive strategies required to manage internalized shame often interfere with relationship. Shame prohibits vulnerability with others, making it difficult to open up honestly with others.

There is Hope…

While the above are only a few brief examples, it is clear that shame can be implicated in many of the struggles clients face. I find in my work with clients that addressing the shame that lies at the root of the problem they present with in therapy is often the most effective way of remediating symptoms and improving one’s life.