Toxic shame isn’t just guilt—it’s a deep feeling of condemnation that can linger for a lifetime. Unlike guilt, which motivates change, toxic shame traps you in self-doubt and negativity. In this video, we uncover how toxic shame works, why it persists, and, most importantly, how to break free from its grip.

� What You'll Learn:
1️⃣ The difference between guilt and toxic shame—and why it matters.
2️⃣ How to discredit public shaming and reclaim your power.
3️⃣ The importance of forgiving yourself and letting go of past mistakes.
4️⃣ Why assigning blame correctly is essential to healing from trauma.
5️⃣ How to challenge negative thoughts and reframe your mindset.
6️⃣ Healthy coping mechanisms to replace toxic habits.
7️⃣ The role of being future-minded while staying present in the moment.

We also share actionable insights, real-life examples, and advice from experts like Carl Jung and Dr. Helen Block Lewis to help you take control of your emotions and rediscover your worth.
� Feeling overwhelmed by shame? Don’t let it define you. Take the first step toward healing by understanding the root of shame and practicing self-compassion. Let us know in the comments if this video resonates with you and if you’d like to learn more about overcoming toxic emotions.

Writer: Imoleayo Olorunnisola (Light)
Script Editor & Manager: Kelly Soong
Voice Over: Amanda Silvera www.youtube.com/AmandaSillvera
Animator: Georgia Whitbread
YouTube Manager: Cindy Cheong

References:
Tangney, J. P., & Tracy, J. L. (2012). Self-conscious emotions: The psychology of shame, guilt, embarrassment, and pride. Guilford Press. www.researchgate.net/profile/Richard-Robins-2/publication/228079795_The_Self-Conscious_Emotions_Theory_and_Research/links/5bdc865d4585150b2b996808/The-Self-Conscious-Emotions-Theory-and-Research.pdf?origin=publication_detail&_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uRG93bmxvYWQiLCJwcmV2aW91c1BhZ2UiOiJwdWJsaWNhdGlvbiJ9fQ
Lewis, H. B. (1971). Shame and Guilt in Neurosis. International Universities Press. archive.org/details/shameguiltinneur0000lewi/page/n5/mode/1up
VanOyen Witvliet, C., Ludwig, T. E., & Vander Laan, K. L. (2001). Granting forgiveness or harboring grudges: Implications for emotion, physiology, and health. Psychological Science, 12(2), 117–123. doi.org/10.1111/1467-9280.00320
Staudinger, U. M., Bluck, S., & Herzberg, P. Y. (2003). Future Orientation and Emotional Regulation: Looking back and looking ahead: Adult age differences in consistency of diachronic perspectives. Psychology and Aging, 18(1), 13-24. www.researchgate.net/publication/10852976_Looking_back_and_looking_ahead_Adult_age_differences_in_consistency_of_diachronous_ratings_of_subjective_well-being
Nolen-Hoeksema, S., Wisco, B. E., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2008). Rethinking rumination. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 3(5), 400-424. doi.org/10.1111/j.1745-6924.2008.00088.x
McEwen, B. S. (2007). Physiology and neurobiology of stress and adaptation: Central role of the brain. Physiological Reviews, 87(3), 873-904. doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00041.2006
Courtois, C. A., & Ford, J. D. (2013). Treatment of complex trauma: A sequenced, relationship-based approach. Guilford Press.
Pennebaker, J. W. (1997). Writing about emotional experiences as a therapeutic process. Psychological Science, 8(3), 162-166. doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.1997.tb00403.x
Tang P., Pavlopoulou G., Kostyrka-Allchorne K., Phillips-Owen J., Sonuga-Barke E. (2023). Links between mental health problems and future thinking from the perspective of adolescents with experience of depression and anxiety: a qualitative study. Child Adolesc Psychiatry Ment Health. Dec 21;17(1):143. doi: 10.1186/s13034-023-00679-8.