Dr. Gabor Maté, renowned for his pioneering work on trauma and its profound connection to health, has been named the 2024 recipient of the Nora and Ted Sterling Prize in Support of Controversy. On November 27, 2024, at SFU Woodwards in Vancouver, Maté will explore his groundbreaking work on trauma-informed healing, transforming the understanding of mental illness and addiction. Maté, a best-selling author and retired physician, has spent over three decades advocating for the mind-body connection, earning international recognition and praise.
A Career in Trauma-Informed Healing
Maté, a retired family physician who spent years treating addiction in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside, has been a vocal advocate for the mind-body connection and the role of past trauma in shaping a person’s health. His work has sparked both admiration and debate, especially within the medical community, where acceptance of trauma-informed healing remains slow.
“From my perspective, my work is not in the least controversial,” Maté explains. “I talk about the fact that the mind and body can’t be separated, and that emotions play a huge role in health and illness.”
Over his career, Maté has written five books, sold almost four million copies in 43 languages, and continues to fill lecture halls on speaking tours worldwide. His latest book, “The Myth of Normal,” co-written with his son Daniel, spent an impressive 19 weeks on the New York Times best sellers list and reflects his enduring influence.
Championing Truth Through Controversy
Maté’s work, while controversial in some circles, is rooted in a deep commitment to uncovering the truth about how trauma impacts lives. His holistic approach to understanding health—including addiction and mental illness—has made a lasting impact on millions of readers, including many who reach out to him personally with stories of how his work has transformed their lives.
Despite his popularity, Maté acknowledges the slow pace of change within the medical community. “What keeps me motivated is very simple,” says Maté. “I just love looking for the truth… People need the truth.”
The Sterling Prize: Honoring Controversial Ideas
The Nora and Ted Sterling Prize, established in 1993 through an endowment at Simon Fraser University, is designed to celebrate individuals who confront controversy with thought-provoking ideas. Previous winners include scholars, artists, and public intellectuals who, like Maté, challenge societal norms and provoke critical discourse. In the tradition of figures like Charles Darwin and Galileo Galilei, the Sterling Prize honours those willing to push boundaries.
This year’s Sterling Prize event will take place on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, at the Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema, SFU Woodwards in Vancouver. The event will include a public lecture by Dr. Maté followed by an award ceremony and reception. Doors open at 6:00 pm, with the lecture starting at 6:30 pm. While the event is free, seating is expected to fill up quickly, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.
For those interested in trauma-informed healing, or simply eager to engage with one of today’s most influential thinkers, this event is not to be missed.
Event Details:
- Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024
- Time: Doors at 6:00 PM, Event begins at 6:30 PM (PST)
- Location: Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema, SFU Woodwards, 149 West Hastings Street, Vancouver
- Cost: Free (Early arrival recommended)
This lecture will explore Maté’s groundbreaking insights into trauma and health—an opportunity to witness the work of a thought leader who has dedicated his life to helping others heal.
Teresa is a dedicated storyteller rooted in the Downtown Eastside, reporting on local art, cultural events, and community initiatives. Her work highlights the creativity and resilience of the neighbourhood, amplifying voices that often go unheard. Believing in the power of art to connect and inspire, Teresa focuses on the people and projects that shape the vibrant DTES community.
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