Interested in the Professional Presence Masterclass? Visit drjeffreyrutstein.com/links 

Want to leave a question? Call 866-357-5156 

After a major trigger, the trauma survivor's nervous system doesn't just reset. It can cycle through fight/flight and collapse. And inside that state of nervous system dysregulation, something insidious happens: shame moves in and blocks access to the very thing that could help. The result is an emotional and physiological hangover that can feel completely inescapable. 

In this episode of Wired for Well-Being, Dr. Jeffrey Rutstein — psychologist, trauma expert, and nervous system specialist — explores why trauma recovery stalls in the aftermath of a trigger. Drawing on polyvagal theory and emotional healing research, Jeffrey and Steve unpack why nervous system regulation feels out of reach when shame is running the show, and how to find what Jeffrey calls the "back door" into self-compassion when the obvious route is blocked. 

For anyone who has ever felt certain that nothing will work — this conversation explains why, and offers a real way through. 

Have a question for Jeffrey? Leave a voicemail at 866-357-5156. If you can't reach that number, record a voice memo or email [email protected]. 

Learn more about the Professional Presence Masterclass for therapists. Find the details at drjeffreyrutstein.com/links. 

The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional mental health advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical or mental health concerns.