Experiencing a traumatic event can have a tremendous impact on a person's life. The symptoms of PTSD can make a person feel constantly afraid and isolated. In addition, depression is common following a traumatic event and among people with PTSD, which often leads to substance abuse and in some cases suicide. According to the NIH, Suicide is among the leading causes of death in the US. It is important to realize that even though it may feel as though there is no hope, recovery and healing is possible. Montel talks with Dr Ted Bender on this episode of Free Thinking about, PTSD, its connections to addiction and suicide, and hope for healing. Dr Bender earned his doctorate in psychology at Florida State University, went on to complete his residency at the Warren Alpert School of Medicine at Brown University and earned his MBA degree from Texas A&M. He has served in the addiction field as a clinician and in leadership roles since 2011. He places emphasis on improving access to behavioral health services, community outreach and integrating resources in order to provide the best outcome for each and every individual. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.com