PTSD is not just a veterans issue. It affects people from all walks of life.

Join us for Care After Fire, a conversation featuring men and women sharing real, authentic stories of trauma, resilience, recovery, and hope.

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Whether you know someone who has experienced trauma, have questions about PTSD, or want a better understanding of what others may be facing, this conversation is for you. You may hear perspectives you've never experienced yourself, challenge common misconceptions, and discover resources that can help.

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Resources and Next Steps for Healing

If you're seeking help, know that support is available:

 

Contact the Warrior's Journey:
Phone: 213-889-5435 or TWJ.org
Email: info@twj.org

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Key Topics:

 

• The importance of authentic conversations to combat stigma around trauma

• The role of vulnerability and trust in healing from invisible wounds

• Common misconceptions about PTSD, including triggers and presentation

• The significance of community, camaraderie, and peer support

• Diverse impacts of trauma beyond combat, including MST and civilian accidents

• Natural remedies and alternative treatments for TBI and PTSD

• The role of spirituality and holistic care in recovery

• Resources available for veterans seeking help, including Veterans Journey organization

• Encouragement that recovery is a journey, with ongoing growth and support

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Timestamps:

• (00:00) Introduction to Care After Fire and PTSD Awareness Month

• (02:02) Kevin Weaver discusses the mission of the webinar and the importance of authentic dialogue

• (03:01) The impact of military training and brotherhood on understanding vulnerability

• (04:44) Breaking the stigma: PTSD as an invisible wound, not a weakness

• (05:12) Vulnerability as courage: fighting beside others requires openness

• (06:13) The complexity of invisible wounds: PTSD, moral injury, loss, and identity

• (09:03) The importance of community and trust in the healing process

• (09:58) The harmful overgeneralization of PTSD and its diverse manifestations

• (15:15) Personal story of trauma and resilience from August O'Neal

• (16:02) Len Anderson shares his car bomb injury and brotherhood of veterans

• (21:05) Melissa James discusses MST, PTSD, and the power of reaching out

• (25:05) Mitchell Kieffer emphasizes self-awareness and overcoming societal stigma

• (33:43) The journey of healing and finding purpose after trauma

• (44:14) Personal reflections on therapy, low points, and hope

• (51:56) Resources, holistic care, and the spiritual component of recovery

• (86:33) Addressing misconceptions: trauma is not limited to combat or visible injuries

• (88:11) Practical steps, community, and ongoing support for healing

• (90:05) Contact information for resources and help from Warriors Journey and partners

 

Messages of Hope

• Len: "Put one foot in front of the other" — find something enjoyable; connection follows shared interest

• Melissa: Reach out; don't be ashamed — "you are loved, worthy, and important"; do something for yourself daily

• Mitchell: Build self-awareness and emotional intelligence; PTSD is not a life sentence

• August: "This too shall pass" — events occupy a small portion of a lifetime; find your new normal through community