“The very same brain centers that interpret and process emotional pain are the ones that interpret and process physical pain”
— Gabor Mate
Simplified Meaning:
When you feel sad or hurt because of something someone said or did, your brain reacts in a very similar way to how it would if you physically hurt yourself, like getting a cut or a bruise. This means that emotional pain and physical pain are closely connected in your brain. For example, if a friend says something really mean to you, the feeling of hurt you experience is processed by the same parts of the brain that would deal with the pain if you stubbed your toe. This shows just how real and intense emotional pain can be, even though you can't see it like you would a physical injury. Understanding this can help you and others take emotional pain seriously and seek support when needed. Just like you might rest and take care of a broken bone, taking care of your emotional health is just as important.
