Rebecca Bates

Loyalist College, Canada

Title: Shame as a Determinant of Health

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Biography

Rebecca Bates is a registered social worker, therapist, and full-time faculty member in the School of Health, Human and Justice Studies at Loyalist College. With a strong foundation in clinical practice, she brings extensive experience in trauma-informed care, mental health, and emotional regulation. Throughout her career, She has worked closely with individuals and communities navigating complex emotional and psychological challenges, helping them build resilience and access meaningful support.

As an educator, she is passionate about preparing the next generation of helping professionals, integrating real-world experience with academic knowledge. Her work continues to bridge the gap between theory and practice, making her a respected voice in the fields of mental health and human services.

Abstract

Shame is a deeply overlooked factor that greatly impacts physical, social, and emotional wellbeing. This presentation will explore the complex nature of shame, the impacts shame has on various physical and mental health outcomes, shame as disease related stigma, and the cross-cultural dimensions of shame. Understanding shame as a determinant of health challenges public health professionals and health policy makers to address shame informed approaches to individual health, community health, and global health.