Episode 19: Beyond Childhood: Adult Trauma, the Healing Journey & Reclaiming Wholeness

Trauma, Healing, and the Power of Curiosity in Adult Caregiving

In this episode of Beyond Medicine, the host, a functional physician specializing in women's health, metabolic dysfunction, and hormone balance, talks with returning guest Lydia Hartwig, a registered dietitian. They delve into the complexities of adult trauma, its impact on health, and the importance of personalized care. Lydia shares her experiences in clinical trials, highlighting the role of trauma, stress, and anxiety in metabolic and autoimmune disorders. The discussion emphasizes the need for curiosity and compassion in healing, contrasting it with the common fix-it mentality. They explore real-life examples, such as caregivers for parents with dementia and the ongoing stress of financial instability, emphasizing the long-term consequences of unsustainable behaviors. The episode concludes with actionable strategies for healing, including forming a supportive community, examining life patterns, and fostering a mindset open to possibilities and hope.

00:00 Introduction to Beyond Medicine
00:58 Guest Introduction: Lydia Hartwick
01:39 Exploring Adult Trauma
02:29 Lydia's Professional Journey
03:20 The Impact of Trauma on Health
06:49 Understanding Relational Trauma
07:49 Financial and Caregiver Stress
14:42 The Role of Society and Self-Examination
19:20 Healing vs. Fixing: A Deeper Look
27:44 Sustainable Living and Health
37:32 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

Lydia Hartwig, MS, RD, LD, is a dietitian based in Sacramento, California, who believes that nutrition and food are what connect every aspect of healthcare and medicine. She is a Texas A&M Aggie who completed her dietetic internship at the Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Hospital and earned her Master of Science in nutrition at Texas Woman's University. Her diverse clinical experience includes working in veteran care, ICU/critical care, maternal-fetal medicine, obesity management, surgical stepdown, clinical research, oncology, and geriatrics/dementia.

Thank you for joining us on Beyond Medicine: Humanized Care for Women of Influence—where we empower ambitious women and their daughters to take charge of their health and wellness. If you’re ready to discover innovative, personalized care in Texas, Colorado, Arizona, or Washington, visit us at saludrevisited.com or follow us on social media @saludRevisited. For inquiries, you can reach me directly at [e-mail]. Until next time, stay inspired, stay informed, and stay well—because your health is your greatest influence.

Medical Disclaimer: Content in episodes is not medical advice, and listening to the show does NOT establish a physician-patient relationship.