An evening with Dr. Gabor Mate and his teachings on trauma

Last night, around 1700 people in Kelowna had the privilege and honour of being in the same room as Dr. Gabor Maté and hearing him share his powerful messages. I (Chelsea), am incredibly grateful to have been one of them and had the opportunity to share a once in a lifetime experience with a friend. It truly was a dream come true for myself as Gabor Maté’s teachings have profoundly impacted my life, illuminated my path & purpose during this lifetime, and ignited my passion to serve as a Trauma Informed Coach.

Gabor Maté is a renowned physician, speaker, and author who has made significant contributions to the field of trauma and its impact on our lives. His teachings revolve around understanding the connection between childhood trauma and various physical and mental health issues that individuals may experience later in life.

Maté emphasizes that trauma is not limited to major catastrophic events but can also result from adverse childhood experiences, such as neglect, abuse, or growing up in a dysfunctional family environment. He believes that these early experiences shape our brain development, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.

One of Maté's key teachings is the understanding that trauma is not solely a psychological issue but also has profound physiological effects. He highlights the link between trauma and addiction, explaining how individuals may turn to substances or harmful behaviors as a coping mechanism to numb their pain or fill a void.

Maté also emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy when working with individuals who have experienced trauma. He encourages a non-judgmental approach, recognizing that people's behaviors and struggles are often rooted in their past experiences.

In addition to his teachings on trauma, Maté explores the concept of "mind-body unity," emphasizing the interconnectedness of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. He encourages individuals to address the underlying emotional and psychological factors contributing to their health issues, rather than solely focusing on symptom management.

It's important to note that this is just a brief overview of Gabor Maté's teachings on trauma. His work is extensive and covers a wide range of topics related to addiction, mental health, and the impact of early experiences on our lives. If you're interested in delving deeper into his teachings, I recommend exploring his books, interviews, and lectures.