Post-Traumatic Growth and Survival Through Support

Bend Don't Break

Summary Brad Savage, a police officer, shares his journey of resilience and self-care after experiencing traumatic incidents. He discusses the challenges of seeking help in a profession where there is a stigma around mental health. Brad emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself and seeking support, even if it means challenging the belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness. He highlights the impact of participating in peer-to-peer programs and attending courses like the Trauma Resiliency Program and Save a Warrior. Brad encourages others to prioritize their well-being and not neglect their own needs. Takeaways

• Seeking help for mental health is important, even in professions where there is a stigma around it.
• Taking care of oneself is crucial for resilience and well-being.
• Participating in peer-to-peer programs and attending courses can be transformative in one's journey of healing and growth.
• Prioritizing self-care is not selfish, but necessary for being able to help others effectively.
• Continual learning and reflection are essential for personal growth and maintaining balance in life.

Chapters 00:00 - Traumatic Incident: A Gun Pointed at Me 04:41 - Challenges and Dark Places in Policing 08:26 - Stigma and Access to Mental Health Support 12:47 - Another Critical Incident: Routine Traffic Stop 28:49 - Taking Control of Self-Care and Wellness 39:11 - Post-Traumatic Growth and Continued Learning