Healing the Invisible Wounds: PTSD and Substance Abuse in Veterans
We have to help you tolerate the anxiety of you growing to who you really want to be again. Any of us would feel that anxiety absolutely.
Picture the life of a returning veteran from Iraq or Afghanistan, facing not just the visible scars of war but the hidden ones too. In this poignant episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods sits down with Dr. Dan Potenza, a staff psychiatrist at the Veteran's Affairs Medical Center and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Dartmouth Medical School. Together, they unpack the complex relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse among veterans. Dr.
Potenza brings his extensive experience to the table, sharing insights on hypervigilance as a survival skill and the role of cognitive and emotional reasoning in recovery. The conversation doesn't shy away from the tough topics. They delve into the unique challenges faced by reserve and national guard veterans, including blast exposure and mild traumatic brain injury. Dr. Potenza emphasizes the importance of emotional sensitivity in treatment, advocating for a holistic approach that supports both individuals and their families.
This episode is a call to action, urging listeners to understand and support the multifaceted recovery journey of veterans dealing with co-occurring disorders. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or someone interested in mental health, this episode offers valuable perspectives on overcoming some of the most challenging aspects of post-war life. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the invisible wounds carried by our veterans and the pathways to healing.