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E.155 Writing for Healing: The Therapeutic Power of Words For First Responders With Keith Hanks

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Manage episode 422054977 series 2931758
Content provided by Steve Bisson. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Steve Bisson or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Send us a text

Imagine dedicating 21 years of your life to saving others, only to find yourself grappling with your own inner battles. This episode features an incredibly candid conversation with Keith Hanks, a retired firefighter and EMT, who opens up about his complex PTSD diagnosis and the rocky journey from active duty to retirement. We unwrap Keith's transition, the trauma that led to his early retirement, and the powerful mission he has since undertaken to support fellow first responders and veterans through his Facebook group and the Traumatic Strength initiative. Keith’s story isn’t just about struggle; it's about resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of mental well-being.
We tackle head-on the often-taboo topic of mental health among the first responder community. Keith shares his personal struggles with PTSD and the stigma that initially kept him from seeking help. He discusses the importance of honest conversations in therapy and finding the right therapist who truly understands the first responder experience. This episode sheds light on the evolving dialogue around mental health and emphasizes that vulnerability and openness are not signs of weakness but steps toward healing. Our discussion also touches on how trauma affects not only individuals but entire communities, and how teamwork and support play crucial roles in recovery.
Keith’s authentic storytelling extends beyond our conversation into his new book, "Allen," which took nine years to perfect. From raw journal entries to a refined narrative, Keith’s writing journey illustrates the cathartic power of putting pen to paper. We discuss the therapeutic benefits of writing, whether through journaling or more structured projects, and provide practical tips for those wanting to start their own writing journey. Keith’s upcoming projects, including a how-to guide on trauma and a children’s book about stress, reflect his unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy. Tune in to discover not just Keith’s story, but the transformative power of sharing our own.
Go buy his book at this link.
Want to win an autograph copy? Click on "Send Us a Text Message" to automatically be entered in the giveaway.

Support the show

YouTube Channel For The Podcast

  continue reading

Chapters

1. E.155 Writing for Healing: The Therapeutic Power of Words For First Responders With Keith Hanks (00:00:00)

2. Advocacy and Healing With Keith Hanks (00:00:03)

3. Opening Up About Mental Health (00:08:17)

4. Mental Health in First Responders (00:17:18)

5. First Responder Trauma and Healing (00:28:04)

6. Healing Trauma Through Helping Others (00:39:35)

7. Authenticity in Writing and Life (00:45:30)

8. Future Writing Projects and Resources (00:50:40)

222 episodes

Artwork
iconShare
 
Manage episode 422054977 series 2931758
Content provided by Steve Bisson. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Steve Bisson or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

Send us a text

Imagine dedicating 21 years of your life to saving others, only to find yourself grappling with your own inner battles. This episode features an incredibly candid conversation with Keith Hanks, a retired firefighter and EMT, who opens up about his complex PTSD diagnosis and the rocky journey from active duty to retirement. We unwrap Keith's transition, the trauma that led to his early retirement, and the powerful mission he has since undertaken to support fellow first responders and veterans through his Facebook group and the Traumatic Strength initiative. Keith’s story isn’t just about struggle; it's about resilience, community, and the relentless pursuit of mental well-being.
We tackle head-on the often-taboo topic of mental health among the first responder community. Keith shares his personal struggles with PTSD and the stigma that initially kept him from seeking help. He discusses the importance of honest conversations in therapy and finding the right therapist who truly understands the first responder experience. This episode sheds light on the evolving dialogue around mental health and emphasizes that vulnerability and openness are not signs of weakness but steps toward healing. Our discussion also touches on how trauma affects not only individuals but entire communities, and how teamwork and support play crucial roles in recovery.
Keith’s authentic storytelling extends beyond our conversation into his new book, "Allen," which took nine years to perfect. From raw journal entries to a refined narrative, Keith’s writing journey illustrates the cathartic power of putting pen to paper. We discuss the therapeutic benefits of writing, whether through journaling or more structured projects, and provide practical tips for those wanting to start their own writing journey. Keith’s upcoming projects, including a how-to guide on trauma and a children’s book about stress, reflect his unwavering commitment to mental health advocacy. Tune in to discover not just Keith’s story, but the transformative power of sharing our own.
Go buy his book at this link.
Want to win an autograph copy? Click on "Send Us a Text Message" to automatically be entered in the giveaway.

Support the show

YouTube Channel For The Podcast

  continue reading

Chapters

1. E.155 Writing for Healing: The Therapeutic Power of Words For First Responders With Keith Hanks (00:00:00)

2. Advocacy and Healing With Keith Hanks (00:00:03)

3. Opening Up About Mental Health (00:08:17)

4. Mental Health in First Responders (00:17:18)

5. First Responder Trauma and Healing (00:28:04)

6. Healing Trauma Through Helping Others (00:39:35)

7. Authenticity in Writing and Life (00:45:30)

8. Future Writing Projects and Resources (00:50:40)

222 episodes

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