Episode 32: In this deeply insightful episode of The Shift Show, Andrea McTague sits down with Amy Gale, a Registered Provisional Psychologist and former US Navy veteran, to explore the unique challenges faced by veterans, military personnel, and first responders. Together, they unpack the lived experiences of these “hero populations” and dive into actionable strategies for addressing trauma, building resilience, and navigating the difficult transition into civilian life.

Amy’s 15 years of military service, combined with her professional expertise in psychology, offer a rare and compassionate perspective on the mental health challenges these populations face. The discussion is full of Support for First Responders & Veterans, practical advice for veterans, first responders, and anyone looking to better support the heroes in their lives.

Life in the Line of Duty: A Double-Edged Sword

Amy opens the conversation by sharing her journey into the military, where she served as a jet mechanic for 15 years. From maintaining F-18 engines to acting as a sexual assault victim advocate, her roles offered a profound sense of purpose and camaraderie. “It’s the people,” Amy reflects, “the bonds you form, the way you become a family because you’re away from your own.”

However, the challenges of military life run deep. Amy recalls how mental health was often stigmatized, leaving service members to suffer in silence. Seeking help could result in being seen as weak or even jeopardizing one’s career. This stigma is not unique to the military; it extends to first responders and other “hero professions,” where being vulnerable is perceived as a liability.

The Complexities of Trauma

Trauma is a recurring theme throughout the episode. Amy and Andrea discuss how trauma can manifest in diverse ways, from acute incidents to vicarious exposure over time. Amy shares a vivid example from her Navy days: witnessing a jet crash during an air show practice. While the physical logs of the plane were prioritized over the emotional needs of the witnesses, Amy and her colleagues were left to process the event largely on their own.

“Everyone just looked at each other and kept walking,” Amy explains, highlighting the avoidance and isolation that often accompany trauma. Andrea adds that unresolved trauma can manifest in subtle but pervasive ways, such as sleep disturbances, irritability, or feelings of disconnection.

One of the key takeaways from the discussion is that trauma doesn’t have to be something catastrophic to have a lasting impact. Both Amy and Andrea emphasize that trauma exists on a spectrum and affects everyone differently.

Transitioning from Service to Civilian Life

The transition out of military or first responder roles is one of the most significant challenges faced by hero populations. Amy recalls the loss of structure and identity that accompanied her departure from the Navy. “You go from having a strict routine and a mission to suddenly having to decide what your purpose is on your own,” she says.

Andrea draws a parallel between veterans and other populations, such as professional athletes and even those transitioning from incarceration. In each case, individuals face the daunting task of reinventing themselves in a world that feels unfamiliar.

Amy and Andrea suggest focusing on three main areas during the transition:

• Reestablishing Purpose: Break down the skills and traits developed in service—such as discipline, organization, and calmness under pressure—and apply them to new civilian roles.
• Rebuilding Social Connections: Combat isolation by joining support groups or reconnecting with old friends who understand your experiences.
• Taking Time for Introspection: Allow yourself the space to experiment with new hobbies and interests, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

The Stigma Around Mental Health

One of the most pervasive barriers to healing is the stigma associated with seeking help. Amy and Andrea discuss how limiting beliefs—such as “I am weak” or “I must protect everyone”—often prevent individuals from addressing their trauma.

To combat this, they advocate for normalizing therapy and debriefing practices within hero populations. Therapy, when approached with the right mindset, is not about simply recounting events but about reframing the impact of those experiences on identity. As Andrea puts it, “Trauma isn’t just something to cope with—it’s something you can integrate into your life as a source of strength and growth.”

Resilience Through Connection

Social connection is a powerful antidote to the isolation that often accompanies trauma. Amy shares how two close friends from her military days have remained her “ride-or-die” companions, providing support through life’s ups and downs. Andrea emphasizes the importance of finding “your weirdos,” those people who truly understand and accept you.

Whether it’s joining veteran-specific organizations, participating in hobby groups, or simply reaching out to a trusted friend, building a support network is a critical step in healing. Humor, too, plays a significant role in fostering connection. As Amy and Andrea note, the humor often found in hero populations can be a vital tool for processing difficult experiences.

The Cost of Avoidance

Avoidance is a common response to trauma, but it can have long-term consequences. Whether it’s avoiding thoughts and feelings about a traumatic event or isolating from loved ones, avoidance only strengthens the grip of trauma over time.

Andrea explains that avoidance creates a cycle where the brain begins to categorize more and more experiences as threats. Over time, this hyper-vigilance leads to burnout, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like adrenal fatigue.

Amy adds that addressing avoidance doesn’t mean diving headfirst into painful memories but rather approaching them with the guidance of a skilled therapist. Techniques like exposure therapy and imaginal exposure can help reprocess trauma and reduce its emotional intensity.

Finding Strength in Vulnerability

The episode concludes with a hopeful message: healing is possible, and trauma can become a source of resilience and growth. Amy and Andrea encourage listeners to embrace vulnerability and seek help early. Whether it’s through therapy, social connection, or self-reflection, taking that first step can lead to profound transformation.

Takeaways for Listeners: Support for First Responders & Veterans

• Trauma is a spectrum: You don’t need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from support and healing.
• Transitioning is a process: Allow yourself time to rediscover purpose and build new connections.
• Therapy works: It’s not about reliving the past but reshaping how it impacts your present and future.
• Strength comes from connection: Lean on those who understand your experiences, and don’t underestimate the power of humor.

If you’re a veteran, first responder, or someone supporting these hero populations, this episode is for you. For more resources or to connect with Amy Gale, visit Shift Grit. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—help is always available.

Listen now to Episode 32 of The Shift Show!