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In this episode, we embark on a journey to unravel the intricate web of childhood trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Delving into the long-reaching effects on first responders' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, we shed light on a crucial aspect often overlooked.
Not all wounds wear visible scars. We discuss how some may deny having ACEs, highlighting the significance of recognizing and acknowledging these experiences. The covert influence of unresolved childhood trauma can silently shape present emotions and behaviors.
Listeners are encouraged to introspect and identify their own ACEs, whether direct or indirect. Understanding these experiences lays the foundation for transformative healing and growth, impacting all facets of life. We invite you to learn more about your own ACES by visiting the following link. Don't worry, your information will remain anonymous.
In the first part of our ACEs series, Cinnamon shares her personal insight and expertise regarding ACEs and their enduring effects. While we can't alter the past, we explore the power of shifting perspectives. Learn about coping mechanisms and interventions that can help undo the impact of ACEs, fostering a healthier mindset for the future.
Join us in this profound exploration of ACEs and their transformative potential. Healing is possible, and understanding our past is the first step towards a brighter, resilient future.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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"I don't want any other first responders to feel that they have to be stuck in that darkness and that there is hope that you can get out of that and get help."
Grappled with a range of challenges, including addiction, mental health issues, trauma, and even contemplating suicide. Monica's chaotic journey and its impact on her personal and professional life reached to a point of her seeking help. Tune in to discover how she draws from her journey to inspire others and advocate for mental health and wellness within the first responder community.
Monica Braun is a resilient and courageous individual whose journey through life has been marked by remarkable strength, transformation, and a powerful commitment to helping others. With over 25 years in law enforcement, Monica began her career in Jersey City before transferring to the Trenton offices. She dedicated her service to parole and law enforcement during a challenging and tumultuous period for the nation, graduating from the Parole Officer Police Academy just one month after the tragic events of 9/11.
In 2011, Monica's life took an unexpected turn when buried childhood memories resurfaced, triggering a struggle with addiction and mental health. Despite her lifelong belief in self-sufficiency, Monica found the courage to ask for help and embarked on a journey to recovery. On March 3rd, 2019, she reached a crossroads, contemplating ending her life, but instead, she reached out to God and asked for help. This marked the beginning of her sobriety journey, and on March 6th, 2019, she entered rehab in Florida.
Today, Monica's mission is to share her story and inspire others to seek help and healing. She emphasizes the importance of asking for assistance, even for first responders who often carry the heavy burden of their profession. Monica speaks to recruit classes, sharing her journey during their in-service training, and is a presenter at CIT training in Burlington County, where she bravely recounts her experience over and over again.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Desensitization is an unconscious psychological process that occurs when individuals are repeatedly exposed to traumatic or distressing events. For first responders, who encounter death and traumatic incidents on a regular basis, desensitization becomes a coping mechanism. It allows them to compartmentalize their emotions and focus on the tasks at hand, ensuring the safety and well-being of those involved. Desensitization often leads to compassion fatigue, a state where individuals feel emotionally exhausted and detached from their own emotions. This can manifest as a lack of grief or emotional response, even in personal situations such as the loss of a loved one.
Our caller, who has spent many years in the fire service, shared how repeated exposure to traumatic and tragic situations has led to desensitization towards death, including thoughts about his own mortality, the passing of family members, or loved ones.
Being a first responder comes with its own set of emotional challenges. Desensitization and compassion fatigue are common experiences that can impact our ability to grieve and feel emotions in our personal lives. While we may appear desensitized to certain tragedies, it doesn't mean we are completely numb. Personal loss can still affect us deeply, especially when it involves our loved ones. The experience of grief may be different for us, but it doesn't diminish the pain or the impact it has on our lives. We may not show our emotions in the same way, but that doesn't mean we don't feel them. It's important to remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and each person's journey is unique. By practicing self-compassion and understanding, we can find a balance between our professional responsibilities and our personal well-being.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Today, we embark on a journey to wrap up the vital criteria we've explored over the past five months. As we delve into the world of PTSD, we revisit Episode 3, where we confronted the stark reality of Direct Exposure to trauma. We encountered the haunting specter of witnessing the trauma, learning of its impact on loved ones, and the heavy burden carried by first responders and medics who indirectly experience its adverse details. The word "Intrusion" took center stage, echoing like an unwelcome intruder, bringing with it the chilling specter of Flashbacks and Unwanted Memories. In Episode 7, Intrusion symptoms took the spotlight.
Our path then led us to criterion C, as we unraveled the mysteries of Avoidance in Episode 11, "The Only Way Out Is Through." With a tale of cows and buffalo, we painted a vivid picture of how individuals may seek to evade trauma-related stimuli, whether they be thoughts, emotions, or external reminders.
Today's episode concludes our exploration of these crucial criteria, reminding us of the importance of ruling out other mental health conditions and substance use disorders before making a PTSD diagnosis. To our cherished first responders, we urge you to prioritize your mental well-being, to reach out for support when needed, and to remain vigilant to the potential aftermath of trauma and PTSD. You are not alone on this journey, and your mental health matters deeply.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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In the realm of outdoor adventures and hunting, the image that often comes to mind is rugged, macho, and testosterone-driven. But what happens when someone not only challenges these stereotypes but thrives in a world where masculinity reigns supreme? Enter Zach Ferenbaugh, a remarkable individual associated with The Hunting Public. In this episode, we will explore the challenges Zach faces to find balance in a career that pulls him every which way while doing his best to maintain healthy relationships and his mental health.
Zach has become a symbol of change in the world of hunting. One of the key challenges Zach faces in this field is the weight of responsibilities and expectations he places on himself. Although he feels blessed to be able to call the thing he loves work he admits there are many challenges with the ups and downs of navigating life with an ADHD diagnosis. Perhaps one of the most crucial aspects of Zach's journey in managing ADHD is the support system he has built around himself. Surrounding himself with a team that believes in his abilities and understands his condition has proven instrumental in his continued success.
The challenges of ADHD include difficulties with focus, organization, and time management, which are crucial in a career like hunting that demands precision and patience. Yet, on the flip side, ADHD can also bring creativity and hyperfocus, two qualities that Zach has harnessed to his advantage. He has learned to navigate the twists and turns of this condition, using it as a driving force rather than a hindrance.
By doing so, Zach has not only challenged stereotypes but shattered them. He has shown that hunting isn't solely about the kill, but about the adventure, the connection to nature, and the sense of camaraderie that it can offer. Through platforms like The Hunting Public, Zach has managed to shift many narratives, encouraging others to see hunting in a new light and take their game up a notch.
Zach's journey is not only remarkable for his impact on the hunting community but also for his personal triumphs. He has been candid about his diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD can be a double-edged sword, bringing both challenges and strengths. For Zach, it has been an integral part of his life, impacting both his career and personal experiences.
Find Zach & The Hunting Public Here:
https://www.thehuntingpublic.com/
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hunting-public/id1124616529
https://www.instagram.com/thehuntingpublic/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/TheHuntingPublic/
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHuntingPublic
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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In the realm of first responders, bravery is valuable, and fortitude is required.
As we embark on the compelling journey of his victory over post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI), one resounding message reverberates: the ghost of childhood trauma, often shrouded in silence, casts a formidable shadow over those who rush to our aid in times of crisis.
Today, we have Michael Sugrue, a former law enforcement officer and co-author of the book "Relentless Courage," who shared his personal journey of overcoming post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) after a fatal officer involved shooting and the importance of addressing childhood trauma and breaking the silence of the mental health stigma within the first responder community.
In 1998, Michael enlisted in the US Air Force as a security forces officer to start his career in law enforcement. He developed a number of specialties while serving in the Air Force, including policing, nuclear security, assessing foreign airfields, and air-based ground defense. Michael transferred to the California Walnut Creek Police Department after leaving the Air Force.
Michael was awarded the Walnut Creek Police Department's Distinguished Service Medal in 2014 for his valiant acts after a tragic officer-involved shooting in 2012. Sadly, he had to leave active duty in 2018 because of medical concerns. At the West Coast Post Trauma Retreat and as an ambassador for Save a Warrior, Michael now devotes his time and energy to the cause of peers.
Michael's story is a testament to the power of resilience, vulnerability, and connection. It serves as a reminder that healing is possible, even in the face of unimaginable trauma. By breaking the silence and destigmatizing mental health within the first responder community, we can create a culture that supports and uplifts those who dedicate their lives to serving others.
⬇️ HIS NEW BOOK IS AVAILABLE HERE ⬇️
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https://twitter.com/sergeantmsugrue?s=21&t=R57JipSK6MTwHlCMi4EnQg
https://instagram.com/sergeant_michael_sugrue_?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://www.facebook.com/sergeantmichaelsugrue
https://www.youtube.com/@SgtMichaelSugrue
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sgtmichaelsugrue
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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In a world where first responders are often celebrated for their bravery and sacrifice, there is a group of heroes who often go unnoticed and unappreciated – dispatchers. These unsung heroes work tirelessly behind the scenes, handling emergency calls and coordinating the response of police, fire, and medical personnel. They are the calm voices on the other end of the line, providing critical support during times of crisis. However, their role and the trauma they experience are often minimized or overlooked.
Picture the scene: a call comes in, the person on the other end is choking back tears, there is gunfire ringing in the distance, a symphony of terror. There is a dispatcher on the line at this time, a lifeline weaved with compassion and bravery in the midst of chaos and confusion.
While dispatchers may not witness the physical trauma firsthand, they are exposed to the emotional toll of every call. They carry the burden of knowing the worst moments of people's lives, yet their own trauma often goes unnoticed. May this moment serve as a turning point when they are acknowledged and supported, converting them from underappreciated first responders into the revered and boosted heroes they truly deserve to be. It is our responsibility to recognize their importance, validate their trauma, and provide the support they need. Let us stand together and ensure that dispatchers are no longer the forgotten first responders, but rather the acknowledged and supported heroes they truly are.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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So, let's dive in, again, to this whole PTSD thing, specifically Criterion E. It may feel like you're on the rollercoaster in your mind, and suddenly, boom! You're hit with a wild loop-de-loop of symptoms. Your mind is like a super-sensitive car alarm, triggered by the smallest things. That's hyperarousal and reactivity for you. It's like they're on a hair-trigger, ready to fight or flee at a moment's notice. You might jump at sudden noises or get irritable out of the blue. It's like the internal volume dial is stuck on loud.
Now, let's talk sleep. You know how important sleep is, right? Well, sometimes you're dealing with the exact opposite. Sleep patterns that are all over the place – you might struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or even have nightmares that could make a horror movie director jealous. It's like their brain is refusing to give you a break.
On top of that, let's throw in dissociation an inability to concentrate for good measure. It's like zoning out, but not in a zen yoga way – more like being MIA from reality for a while.
These examples and several others are covered on this episode to help you get a better idea of what post traumatic symptoms may look like in your life. So, dear first responders, when you're dealing with these Criterion E symptoms, just remember, it's like your mind's throwing a wild party you didn't RSVP for. Be patient, be compassionate with yourself and know you are not alone.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Imagine you're in a high-pressure situation, making split-second decisions. Wouldn't it be nice to hone a tool that encourages you to recognize any negative thoughts that might be clouding your judgment? These could be thoughts like "I can't handle this" or "Everything is going to go wrong." The first step is to identify them.
Then comes the powerful part – challenging those thoughts. It's like assessing the evidence at a crime scene. You look for alternative explanations and realistic viewpoints. This helps you see the situation more clearly, even amidst the mayhem.
When we think about making changes, most of us don't really consider "all sides" in a complete way. Instead we often do what we think we should do to avoid doing things we don't feel like doing, or just feel confused or overwhelmed and give up thinking about it at all. Working through the pros and cons of both changing and not making a change is one way to help make sure we have fully considered a possible change. This can help to "hang on" to our plan in times of stress, temptation or burnout.
Your ATTD hosts dig into a topic and provide a tool that holds immense value not only for our daily lives but also for our mental well-being – the balanced decision-making process, backed by the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT.
You can visit our private practice's resources page for the accompanying "Balanced Decision Making Worksheet" along with many other valuable printable PDF's.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Guest Molly Jones joins your ATTD hosts to share her insights, expertise and experience as the clinical outreach coordinator for Advanced Recovery Systems and the Center of Excellence. Molly is the IAFF 9th District Peer Support Team Clinical Coordinator as well as assists first responders and their family members with accessing and navigating vetted first responder treatment providers across the United States and Canada.
Molly earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Family Life Education with a focus on Gerontology from the University of Central Oklahoma and a Masters of Social Work from the University of Oklahoma. In her time with Advanced Recovery Systems, Molly has primarily worked with first responders and their families, as well as the International Association of Fire Fighters and various municipalities across North America.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Embark on a journey that goes beyond sirens and flashing lights After The Tones Drop Podcast provides a safe haven to explore, demystify, and destigmatize mental health and wellness for first…
Join Cinnamon and her guests as they pull back the curtain, sharing powerful stories and expert insights that resonate with the heartbeat of those who run towards danger when others step back. It's more than just a podcast; it's a lifeline for the ones who dedicate their lives to saving others.
In each episode, stories get unraveled and struggles behind the badges are shared, showcasing the human side of heroism. Discover the strength in vulnerability and the power in sharing. It's more than a conversation; it's a revolution—a revolution in mental health care for our first responders.
So, tune in for candid conversations, practical strategies, and a sprinkle of humor—because healing begins with understanding, and understanding starts here.
Let's break down the barriers, one episode at a time. Because after the tones drop, the real conversation begins, and we're here to make sure it's heard loud and clear.