Jonathan Hickory's Fight: From Darkness to Light in Law Enforcement
One piece of advice is that unresolved trauma will destroy you if you face it.
Imagine facing the darkest corners of humanity daily and then struggling to cope with the aftermath. That's the reality for Jonathan Hickory, an active duty Master Police Officer in Virginia and author of the award-winning book 'Break Every Chain'. In this episode of 'Chase The Vase', host Brock Bevell sits down with Jonathan to discuss the heavy toll police work can take on mental health, the spiral into alcoholism, and the daunting task of seeking help.
Jonathan shares his raw and gripping story of battling post-traumatic stress and addiction, shedding light on the challenges faced by many in law enforcement. With 18 years on the force, Jonathan had seen it all, but the cumulative stress began to erode his ability to cope. Overwhelmed by darkness, he found himself at a breaking point, battling suicidal thoughts and a deepening addiction. The conversation is candid and heart-wrenching, exploring how unresolved trauma can lead to self-destruction.
Jonathan opens up about his turning point – a desperate cry for help that led him on a path to recovery. He talks about the crucial role of acknowledging and confronting trauma to reclaim one's life. This episode is not just for those in law enforcement but for anyone grappling with trauma and addiction. Jonathan's journey underscores the importance of seeking help and the possibility of finding light even in the darkest times.
His story is a beacon of hope for those feeling trapped by their circumstances. Tune in to hear Jonathan's inspiring journey from despair to redemption and gain insights into the vital importance of mental health support for those on the front lines.