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What if you could find a way to support your loved ones through the toughest times while also taking care of yourself? Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Daniel Roberts and clinical psychologist Michelle Sherman as we uncover the crucial support systems for families touched by trauma and mental illness. Michelle's collaboration with her mother in creating resources for teenagers grappling with deployment-related issues is spotlighted, offering a unique perspective on the challenges military families face. This episode sheds light on the significance of trauma-informed educational approaches.

Together, we navigate the complex landscape of trauma's impact on family dynamics, particularly for veterans grappling with PTSD. Michelle shares her firsthand experiences from the VA hospital, emphasizing the emotional and physical hurdles these families encounter. From setting boundaries to transitioning from combat behaviors, the discussion is rich with insights on maintaining familial bonds amidst adversity. The need for effective PTSD treatments and strategies for communicating with children about these challenges is highlighted, ensuring listeners walk away with practical tools for everyday life.

Dive deep into the empowering message behind Michelle Sherman’s book, "Loving Someone with Mental Illness or History of Trauma," aimed at reaching those who need support but can't attend traditional groups. Through a compassionate narrative, Michelle provides evidence-based strategies from therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, offering listeners validation and encouragement.

Go to Michelle's website (www.SeedsofHopeBooks.com) and order these two books:

Loving Someone with a Mental Illness or History of Trauma: Skills, Hope, and Strength for Your Journey (2025, Johns Hopkins University Press)

I'm Not Alone: A Teen’s Guide to Living with a Parent Who Has a Mental Illness or History of Trauma (2024, Seeds of Hope Books)

Get the free Veteran's Guide to Talking to Kids about PTSD that Michelle mentioned during the interview: https://www.mirecc.va.gov/VI

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Help Moral Injury Support Network for Servicewomen, Inc. provide the support it needs to women veterans by donating to our cause at: https://misns.org/donation or send a check or money order to Moral Injury Support Network, 136 Sunset Drive, Robbins, NC 27325. Every amount helps and we are so grateful for your loving support. Thanks!

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Discover the hidden psychological wounds of moral injury and how they profoundly affect our service women. Unpack the foundational elements of moral injury that separate it from PTSD, and learn about the emotional and psychological toll it takes on those in the military. Inspired by the groundbreaking research of Jonathan Shay and others, this episode sheds light on the situations that often lead to moral injury, including betrayal by authority figures and the pressure of high-stakes decisions. Real stories from women veterans bring these discussions to life, offering an intimate look into the struggles and resilience required to navigate these challenges.

Meet Ellie, whose heartrending story of sexual assault and its aftermath sets the stage for a broader discussion on the mental health struggles faced by women in the military. From issues of trust and self-worth to symptoms like anxiety and depression, these narratives reveal the multifaceted impact of moral injuries and their lasting consequences. Through the experiences of women who have faced combat situations, hostile environments, and other violations, we confront the complex reality of moral injury, emphasizing the necessity for understanding and empathy.

Learn about the vital work being done by the Moral Injury Support Network for Service Women Incorporated in North Carolina, an organization dedicated to aiding service women in their recovery journeys. We discuss how community support, prevention, and education play a crucial role in healing, and how your contributions can sustain these efforts. With stories of strength and the promise of hope, this episode highlights the importance of addressing and supporting moral injury survivors through shared understanding and active support.

Support the show

Help Moral Injury Support Network for Servicewomen, Inc. provide the support it needs to women veterans by donating to our cause at: https://misns.org/donation or send a check or money order to Moral Injury Support Network, 136 Sunset Drive, Robbins, NC 27325. Every amount helps and we are so grateful for your loving support. Thanks!

Follow us on your favorite social channels: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moral-injury-support-network-for-servicewomen/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.danielroberts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misnsconsult/

Discover the emotional realities and valuable lessons from veteran caregiving with our guests, Shawn Moore and Natasha Swayze. In this episode, we highlight Shawn's transformative journey from founding Caregivers on the Homefront in 2017 to its evolution into Operation Frontline Families. Learn how Shawn and Natasha are revolutionizing support systems for military families, emphasizing the importance of mental health and youth-focused programs.

We delve into the heart-wrenching challenges caregivers face, particularly when caring for veterans with PTSD. Listen as we share personal stories and discuss the heavy burden and guilt that accompany caregiving duties. Explore the concept of moral injury and understand the frustration with care systems that often exclude caregivers. Our conversation also touches on the difficult choices military spouses must make, balancing their roles with their own well-being, and the essential role of setting boundaries.

Lastly, we shed light on the critical work of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. Learn about the various initiatives designed to support caregivers, including self-care workshops, financial aid through the HOPE Fund, and the Hidden Helpers Coalition. Get inspired by their advocacy efforts and understand the significance of community and accessible resources in empowering caregivers. Don’t miss this episode packed with practical advice and moving stories that aim to make a meaningful impact on military families.

Operation Frontline Families and the Elizabeth Dole Foundation Join Forces in Support of Military and Veteran Caregivers

Join us at the Comprehensive Moral Injury Conference, September 16-19, 2024, Sandy Springs, GA

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