104: Addressing Vicarious Trauma in Veterans

“When you're an empath, you feel what they feel. So, I carried a lot of their stuff, which you shouldn't do. But when you don't know what else to do, and you love them so fiercely, you end up carrying their stuff anyway because you're like, “God, how can I help?” - Tammy Laird   FEATURED GUEST Tammy Laird is a veteran who has served in both the Army Reserves and the Air Force, with a particular sentiment towards the Army. She comes from a military family, with her father having served in the Air Force. Tammy has a diverse background, including roles as a wife, mother, homeschool mom, and children's author. Currently, she is deeply invested in helping veterans and first responders heal from trauma through a Christian faith-based nonprofit organization called Healing the Hero. Her efforts focus on addressing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and other negative emotions in veterans, first responders, and their families. Tammy's passion for this work stems from her empathetic nature and her experiences throughout her military career, where she witnessed the traumatic effects on her peers and friends. Connect with Tammy Laird: LinkedIn Instagram   KEY TAKEAWAYS Tammy’s inspiring transition story and how her military experiences shaped her new career path. The importance of not comparing oneself to others and how everyone has their own battles. Insight into vicarious trauma and Tammy's dedication to healing heroes.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS [06:07] Empathic awareness of behavioral changes in others. [09:43] Joining the army felt like God's plan. [12:15] Army reserves offered guaranteed job security. [17:31] Empaths carry others' burdens and seek to help.   YOUR MOVE Connect with Gene: LinkedIn genemoran.com Check Out These Resources: The Military Effect by Scott Manthorne