S2 Ep. 26 - Bullying and the Brain

In an age where awareness about mental health is rapidly increasing, it is crucial to understand the profound and lasting effects of experiences that might be shaping our minds, especially the vulnerable minds of children. One such deeply pervasive and damaging experience is bullying. Welcome to this week’s episode, where we dive deep into ‘The Bullied Brain’ and how bullying doesn’t just affect our emotional well-being but alters our very brain chemistry.

Our esteemed guest, Jennifer Fraser, Ph.D., author of ‘The Bullied Brain,’ has meticulously examined this very topic. Dr. Fraser’s groundbreaking research highlights how repeated exposure to bullying can trigger a stress response in the brain, leading to alterations in structure and function, much like the brains of trauma survivors. This phenomenon is not just restricted to childhood; its echoes can be felt deeply into adulthood, manifesting as anxiety, depression, and even physical health issues.

Bullying, often brushed off as a ‘rite of passage’ or ‘kids being kids,’ has proven to be far more sinister. Neuroscience and advanced brain imaging techniques have shown that persistent bullying can hinder the growth of certain brain regions involved in emotion regulation and memory, leaving victims struggling with emotional dysregulation, heightened fear responses, and memory issues.

In today’s episode, we aim to shed light not only on the emotional scars left by bullying but on the tangible, physiological changes it imprints on the brain. As we speak with Dr. Fraser, we’ll explore strategies for early intervention, support mechanisms for victims, and the need for systemic changes in educational and professional environments. This is a call to transform our understanding of bullying from mere hurtful words or actions to potential long-term brain trauma. A shift in perspective is the first step towards meaningful change.”

Listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Anchor, Amazon Music, Stitcher, IHeartRadio, Pandora, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe to automatically get the next episode!

THE HOST

Kirk Patrick Miller is an award-winning and nominated author. His medication protocol (that shows clinical value in meta-studies) led to requests for him to write and publish his memoir “Chaos to Cured”.

He began consulting children, adults, and families in 2009 under the supervision and guidance of Dr. Robert Simon, MD. Mr. Miller’s first-hand experience overcoming mental health adversities has helped him guide hundreds of students and clients toward a life of empowerment and resiliency.

Mr. Miller is currently taking on clients willing to face themselves and stay the course. He can also be hired as a radio/podcast guest, or as a keynote speaker.

Mr. Miller continues to thrive and manage his bipolar I, OCD, generalized anxiety, and ADHD, against all odds. His mission is to help others achieve the happiness they deserve.

CONTACT: 303-875-4283 | realchaos2cured@gmail.com

Get a copy of Kirk’s books: Chaos to Cured | Dawn of Davna

THE EXPERT

Jeffrey N. Freed, M.A.T has specialized in working with both gifted children and people with autism for over 35 years. Jeffrey is the author of the New York Times best-selling book “Right Brained Children In a Left-Brained World” and co-author of “Four Weeks To An Organized Life For People With ADD”. Jeffrey is currently working exclusively with children and adults on the autistic spectrum.

CONTACT: 720-320-6398 | jeffreyfreed48@gmail.com

https://allwaysautistic.com/about-us/

https://www.additudemag.com/author/jeffrey-freed/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/291034.Jeffrey_Freed

Get a copy of Jeffrey Freed’s book: Right-Brained Children In a Left-Brained World on Amazon