In honor of Veterans Day, hosts Roy Clary and MB Roberts welcome Dr. Matthew Bruhin to discuss the ongoing struggles veterans and their families face long after service ends.
Dr. Bruhin, who has 15 years of experience treating veterans and their families, explains how trauma isn't just something that happens to you - it's something that happens inside of you, physically changing your brain structure. The conversation covers the differences between how older and younger veterans process trauma, the shocking connection between PTSD and substance use disorders and the concept of secondary trauma that affects caregivers. Roy shares his personal experience with EMDR therapy, while MB opens up about her husband's Vietnam experience and the treatment he faced returning home. Dr. Bruhin breaks down the four types of trauma, explains why families need their own treatment plans and offers practical advice for supporting loved ones without burning out.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone caring for a veteran or dealing with the ripple effects of trauma in their family.
Chapters:
Meet Dr. Matthew Bruhin & His Military Background - 02:33
What Trauma Really Is & How It Affects Veterans - 07:10
Vietnam Veterans & Secondary Trauma - 10:05
Epigenetics: How Trauma Changes Your DNA - 13:11
Mistakes Caregivers Make & When NOT to Work on Trauma - 14:46
Roy's Caregiver Experience & EMDR Therapy Journey - 19:03
Should Caregivers Get Therapy Too? - 25:35
Brain Development, Types of Trauma & Creating a Care Plan - 29:12
Older vs. Younger Vets: Care Differences - 41:33
PTSD & Substance Use Disorder Connection - 43:06
Resource Links:
Brookdale Senior Living
https://www.brookdale.com
Apex Recovery
apex.rehab
VA.gov:
www.va.gov
American Legion:
www.legion.org
VFW:
www.vfw.org
EMDR International Association:
www.emdria.org
The Grey Take Voicemail Line:
833-473-9898 Leave questions about aging, caregiving, or family dynamics
