#290 Resilience & Post-Traumatic Growth | H'Sien Hayward, PhD

In this episode of SuperPsyched, host Dr. Adam Dorsay delves into the realities of resilience and post-traumatic growth with Dr. H'Sien Hayward, a psychologist who shares her incredible personal journey. Dr. Hayward recounts her experiences growing up on a self-sustained homestead, the life-changing accident just before her 17th birthday, and her inspiring academic and professional achievements. The discussion explores profound topics, such as the hedonic treadmill, the importance of finding meaning and purpose, and the nuanced differences between trauma and growth. Enjoy an engaging and intellectually stimulating conversation on how creating meaning after loss can lead to profound personal and collective growth. 00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched 00:28 The Myth of 'What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger' 01:25 Introducing Dr. H'Sien Hayward 02:43 H'Sien's Early Life and Accident 06:50 The Road to Recovery and Resilience 10:53 Delayed Grief and Healing 20:07 The Hedonic Treadmill and Finding Meaning 27:27 Key Findings from Happiness Research 27:46 Hedonic Adaptation and Set Points 28:34 Exceptions to Hedonic Adaptation 29:19 Cosmetic Surgery and Sustained Happiness 31:17 Effort and Sustainable Happiness 31:36 Positive Psychology Interventions 39:54 The Role of Play and Resilience 40:16 The Importance of Meaning Over Money 44:09 The Power of Humor and Levity 46:24 Final Thoughts and Reflections Helpful Links: Dr. H'Sien Hayward Dr. H'Sien Hayward LinkedIn