Author Archives: Shay Seaborne, CPTSD

About Shay Seaborne, CPTSD

Former tall ship sailor turned trauma awareness activist-artist Shay Seaborne, CPTSD has studied the neurobiology of fear / trauma /PTSD since 2015. She writes, speaks, teaches, and makes art to convey her experiences as well as her understanding of the neurobiology of fear, trauma theory, and principles of trauma recovery. A native of Northern Virginia, Shay settled in Delaware to sail KALMAR NYCKEL, the state’s tall ship. She wishes everyone could recognize PTSD is not a mental health problem, but a neurophysiological condition rooted in dysregulation, our mainstream culture is neuro-negative, and we need to understand we can heal ourselves and each other through awareness, understanding, and safe connection.

Safety in Uncertainty: Protecting Ourselves and Others Through IPNB

In times of growing fear and division, such as those surrounding political uncertainty, it’s vital to mindfully choose our safety strategies for our own well-being and the collective health of those around us. As another Trump administration looms on the … Continue reading

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The Brain Isn’t Broken; Medicine’s Approach to Depression is Faulty

A recent study on rumination and depression suggests that brain structure plays a major role in why some individuals get stuck in repetitive negative thinking. The researchers identified differences in the precuneus, a brain region linked to self-reflection and memory, … Continue reading

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Connection Over Control: Why IPNB is the Antidote to Dominance Hierarchies

Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) supports the reduction of hierarchy, especially when it comes to relationships, organizations, and social structures. IPNB, developed by Dr. Dan Siegel, is grounded in the idea that human beings thrive in environments that promote connection, attunement, empathy, … Continue reading

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Empathy as a Cultural Foundation: Leveraging IPNB to Dismantle Hierarchy and Foster Widespread Thriving

From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, undermining the domination hierarchy and building a culture that fosters widespread human thriving involves creating environments that support the natural human capacities for connection, empathy, and mutual support. Here’s how this can be approached: … Continue reading

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Why “Regulate Your Emotions” is the Wrong Goal

From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, emotions aren’t something we simply regulate directly through willpower or control; instead, they are the product of a regulated nervous system. The nervous system, when in balance, naturally produces emotional responses that are more … Continue reading

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Election Aftermath: Shifting from Fear to Safety in Uncertain Times

If thinking about the future makes you feel afraid, you’re normal. And, your nervous system needs support. Chronic fear and the resulting hypervigilance are the biggest disruptors to nervous system health, self-regulation, homeostasis, and overall well-being. Our nervous systems scan … Continue reading

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Post-Election Stress Relief: Community and Boundaries Can Protect Your Mental Health

From an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, maintaining your mental health in the face of overwhelming stress involves focusing on what you can control, specifically your relationships and sense of community. Seek out environments where you feel safe and understood. These … Continue reading

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Objectivism Debunked: The Imperative of Human Connection for Well-Being

Objectivism is a philosophical system developed by Russian-American writer Ayn Rand. It is centered around the idea that reality exists independently of consciousness, and individuals must understand reality through reason, the only means of acquiring knowledge. Objectivism promotes rational self-interest, … Continue reading

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Trump or Harris? What We Must Do, No Matter Who is Declared the Winner

No matter which candidate is declared the winner in the 2024 presidential election, from an Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB) perspective, the first step we can take individually is to focus on creating safety within ourselves and in our immediate relationships. Election … Continue reading

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