The courage to blush: my story of shame, healing and psychological safety in medicine

Since my TEDx talk in 2022, I’ve been on a bit of a public journey, sharing my experience with chronic blushing—erythrophobia—and the deep sense of shame that often accompanies it. As an introvert and a private person, this hasn’t been easy for me.

But something inside me keeps pushing to share because if my story can help even one person realize they’re not alone, it’s worth it.

For the first time, I’m opening up fully about my journey—how my fear of blushing almost stopped me from pursuing a career in medicine and how, ultimately, that same journey led me to the fulfilling and meaningful career I have today.

I’ve shared this story as a guest blog for the wonderful Shame & Medicine project, and I hope it resonates with anyone who has ever felt held back by their blushing.

🌟 Here’s what you’ll find in the blog post:

• 😳 How my erythrophobia started
• 🎓 How I let fear get in the way of a career in medicine
• 🌸 How my journey through blushing brought me to a career that I love and wouldn’t trade for anything

🔗 You can read my full story here

If my story resonates with you and if you’re ready to tell yours, contact me through the button at the top of the page—I’m here to help you achieve the life, career, and relationships you deserve.

- Madeleine

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