Why Are We Coping So Differently? Understanding NICU Trauma Responses - with Dr Frankie Harrison

One parent wants to talk.One shuts down.One becomes hypervigilant.One throws themselves into work.One feels the need to control everything.One seems emotionally distant.In this episode, I’m joined by clinical psychologist, NICU parent, and founder of Miracle Moon, Dr Frankie Harrison, to explore the nervous system responses that emerge during and after a NICU admission. Together we unpack the fight, flight, freeze and fawn responses and discuss what these survival patterns can look like for parents navigating NICU and life beyond its doors.We discuss:• Why trauma responses are automatic, unconscious survival responses• What fight, flight, freeze and fawn can look like in the NICU environment and at home• Why parents often experience conflict when their nervous systems respond differently• Why many parents blame themselves for how they coped• How trauma therapy can help parents move from surviving to more joyful living• Parenting in the way you want to parent, rather than parenting from fear and survival  Whether you’re currently in NICU, recently discharged, or years beyond your NICU journey, this episode offers a compassionate reminder:The ways you coped were not a reflection of how much you loved your baby. They were your nervous system’s attempt to keep you safe.ResourcesThis episode features Dr Frankie Harrison, Clinical Psychologist, NICU Parent and Founder of  Miracle MoonYou can learn more about Dr Frankie and her support services, resources, courses and community through Miracle Moon below:Miracle MoonFollow Dr Frankie @miraclemoonukThe NICU Space Podcast