S2E8: The Most Difficult Thing

Being brave and being courageous can get you through war. But asking for help? Well, sometimes that’s the hardest part. Today we hear from a Veteran who asked for help. Our hosts discuss therapy for PTSD and the VA’s commitment to rural Veterans. The following episode may contain descriptions of violence. Please use discretion.

Rachel Weiskittle is an assistant professor in the department of psychology at the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. Her research focuses on grief, trauma, aging, and the role of creative art therapies in helping people heal from loss.

Bret Hicken is a clinical psychologist and the Aging Program Manager with the VHA Office of Rural Health’s Veterans Rural Health Resource Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. His research and policy work focuses on improving access to and quality of healthcare for aging rural Veterans and those who care for them.

Resources for this episode: ·

• Understanding PTSD and Aging: English Version ; Spanish Version
• The My Life My Story Podcast
• VHA Office of Rural Health

Further Reading:

• National Center for PTSD
• VA Mental Health

Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? Find support anytime day or nightTo connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder anytime day or night:

• Call 800-273-8255, then select 1.
• Start a confidential chat.
• Text 838255.
• If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889.