Breaking the Silence: Veterans Share Their Mental Health Journeys
I think your mess is your message, and I keep playing that in my mind as I go through certain things- that it is we all have whether it's a small mess or a big mess.
Ever wondered what it's like for veterans to transition back to civilian life while battling mental health challenges? In this eye-opening episode of 'Addiction Talk', Army veterans Annette Whittenberger and Steven Kuhn, alongside former Navy SEAL and AAC’s Chief of Staff Dan Cerrillo, tackle the tough topic of mental health stigma among service members.
Annette, a retired Army veteran and military spouse, opens up about her struggles with PTSD, anxiety, and depression, and how she now dedicates her life to coaching others through similar battles. Steven, a decorated Army combat veteran, shares his experiences from Iraq and how his principles of Honesty, Integrity, and Transparency (H.I.T.) guide his work in helping others grow personally and professionally.
Dan, who has received numerous commendations for his service, brings a unique perspective as both a veteran and a leader in addiction recovery. The trio dives deep into the importance of communication and support, the role of identity and purpose in recovery, and the power of community. They emphasize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Annette poignantly states, 'I think your mess is your message', highlighting that everyone has their own struggles and that sharing them can be incredibly powerful. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the mental health challenges faced by veterans and the steps they can take towards healing.