Psychobiological barriers to health change

Our childhood experiences have the power to shape our lives. Some are positive, allowing us to overcome challenges through using our gifts and talents. Others are more wounding, predisposing us to the downstream effects of unresolved trauma. These downstream effects are often physical in nature as our emotions are ‘psychobiological’ – they have the ability to create dysfunction in our biology. If this dysfunction isn’t resolved, our wellbeing is affected and diseases can manifest.

Humans have clear physical needs to ensure our survival, but we also have emotional needs. This week our lead article asks if we are actually facing an epidemic of emotional pain rather than an epidemic of chronic disease. Diet and lifestyle plays a central role in creating metabolic dysfunction and chronic disease. Yet despite a plethora of dietary and lifestyle advice and corrective interventions, obesity and related diseases continue to threaten our health and social systems. With the close relationship between emotions and food, surely behavioural change must first address emotional health?

To illustrate this point, we share a real-life case study from an ANH-Intl practitioner event. How someone, overshadowed by early life trauma and chronic stress participated fully in his ‘drug-free’ journey back to wellness. Using a systems approach, we show how upstream, participatory, healthcare can foster lasting change.

In health, naturally

 

Meleni Aldridge

Executive Coordinator