Deborah Adams: Winning Over Shame!

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses traumatizing topics such as sexual abuse and suicide. Meeting Summary

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Debi and Allison Frye discussed Debi's book, which covers her experiences from age four to 2012, and the importance of being prepared for the potential success of the podcast. They also discussed Debi's journey of healing and the use of creative activities to help with the process.

Debi experienced physical and psychological abuse from her father and was taken away from her mother at age nine. She and her sister were taken to a group of five people who subjected them to horrific abuse. She felt responsible for protecting her sister and felt shame for not speaking up earlier. She was eventually rescued and had an off-and-on relationship with her father until her mother stopped it.

Debi experienced childhood trauma, which led to her seeking out people who would take care of her. She met her husband during hospitalization, and they had a social outlet of going to parties and engaging in extreme activities. This ultimately led to the end of their marriage when her husband met someone else online. Debi used her magical thinking and creativity to help her cope with her shame and trauma.

Debi found healing through playing with dolls and creating an elaborate dinner for herself. She also found a support group to help her work through her trauma and is now planning to speak about her journey and the skills she used to help others. She also encourages people to keep their safety objects with them in case of triggers.

Allison Frye is advocating for mental health and discussing her journey of learning to live with PTSD and insomnia. She is also working on a website, Journey Through Wonderland, to be an accountability partner, grief partner, and trauma partner for those who don't have a support system. She is taking classes to be a life coach and is exploring resources such as the text crisis line and the sex trafficking rings in her area.

Allison Frye and Debi discussed mental health, coping mechanisms, and the journey of learning about mental health advocacy. They also discussed the benefits of having a publisher versus self-publishing and the importance of suicide prevention. They concluded by expressing their appreciation for each other and their plans to stay in touch.