Welcome to the first episode of the Medicine Weavers podcast, where we explore stories of health, healing, and transformation. In this episode, we dive into the personal journey of Kayla Lamrock who shares her experiences growing up in a military family and her own struggles with PTSD. Through her story, we learn about the challenges she faced, the healing process, and the importance of finding support and community.
In the opening, I delve into the history and controversies surrounding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and how it was initially misunderstood and misdiagnosed, particularly in military contexts. Over time, mental health professionals began recognizing the condition and exploring different approaches to support those affected. There are of course ongoing debates and discussions around the diagnosis and treatment of PTSD, and I emphasize the importance of individual experiences and the potential for post-traumatic growth.
"I felt like we were in a cave and all of these boulders were blocking the exit."
In our discussion, Kayla opens up about her own experiences growing up in a military family with a father suffering from severe PTSD. She shares how the military lifestyle and normalized PTSD affected her childhood and later her marriage to a military man who also developed PTSD. Kayla discusses the challenges she faced in a support role for her partner and the impact it had on her mental and emotional health.
"I have to accept and love him for wanting to be in the cave and also acknowledging and honouring that I don't."
She highlights the benefits of therapy, including talk therapy and EMDR, as well as the importance of self-care practices such as meditation and journaling. Kayla also emphasizes the significance of finding a supportive community, whether through work or personal connections, and how these relationships played a vital role in her healing process.
"I hope to provide healing for others experiencing this and build (on) that connection (we have) of feeling similar ways, despite it actually being very isolating."
One of the key lessons Kayla learned was the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing her own well-being. She reflects on the need to separate her identity from the military lifestyle and community, allowing herself to explore new paths and experiences. She talks about her efforts in creating an online toolkit for military youth with post-traumatic stress injuries and her plans to provide support and resources for military families in her community.
Kayla's journey is a testament to the power of healing and personal growth. Through therapy, self-care practices, and finding a supportive community, she has been able to navigate the challenges of PTSD and find her own path to wellness. Her story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar struggles and reinforces the importance of seeking support and embracing one's own healing journey.
Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or any mental health issues, seek professional help and find a supportive community to lean on. You are not alone, and there is always hope for healing and transformation.