E.149 Bridging the Mental Health Gap for Armed Forces and First Responders

Finding Your Way Through Therapy

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When silence is no longer an option, the voice of change rings out. Join us as we sit down with Austin Ives and Justin Jacobs of Mindstrong Guardians, who channel their own battles with mental health into a force for good within the military and first responder communities. They're not guests; they're beacons of hope, guiding veterans like Justin, who after decades in the Coast Guard, now dedicates his life to coaching others through their transitions. And warriors like Austin, who openly shares his fight with PTSD and depression, revealing the lifelines of coping strategies and peer support that have saved him.
Navigating the stormy seas of trauma, especially for those in roles as demanding as the Coast Guard, can feel like an endless battle. But in our heartfelt discussion, we uncover the silent epidemic of cumulative stress and the urgent need for ongoing mental health intervention. It's not just about having someone to talk to; it's about building a continuum of care that starts from day one of service. Listen as we honor the history and sacrifices of our first responders, and recognize the invaluable skills, like active listening, they carry forward into future endeavors, transforming pain into purpose.
We wrap up with an eye-opening look at the evolution of Mindstrong Guardians' mission to reshape mental health support for those who've served. Rejecting the stigma associated with seeking help, Austin, Justin, and their partner, Stephen Chamberlain, share an inspiring vision for mental wellness that defies traditional boundaries. The shift from a not-for-profit mindset to a more sustainable for-profit model, influenced by the wisdom of Admiral Thad Allen, underlines their commitment to authentic, relatable programs promoting post-traumatic growth. These stories aren't just shared; they're a rallying cry for a cultural shift where mental health is as prioritized as physical fitness.
Go check out the website at https://mindstrong-guardians.com/

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Chapters

1. E.149 Bridging the Mental Health Gap for Armed Forces and First Responders (00:00:00)

2. Supporting Military Mental Health Through Coaching (00:00:03)

3. Navigating Trauma in First Responders (00:08:49)

4. Breaking Down Stigma (00:20:30)

5. Mental Health Support Program Expansion (00:32:32)