In this “Best of Season 3” episode of Untold Valor, we revisit powerful conversations about mental health, transition, and rediscovering purpose after military service. Myra shares why veterans must advocate for themselves and seek support without shame. Darrin reflects on the lasting emotional weight of traumatic experiences as a young medic. And Kat opens up about the difficult transition of being medically retired from the Air Force and rebuilding her identity through service in a new way.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

• Self-advocacy after service
• PTSD, anxiety, and mental health management
• The pressure of trauma as a young medic
• Why veterans need connection and support
• Rebuilding purpose after medical retirement
• The culture shock of civilian life and school

0:00 - Intro

0:51 - Myra on advocating for yourself after service

4:16 - Darrin on trauma, pressure, and mental health

11:12 - Kat on medical retirement and rebuilding purpose

EPISODE LINKS

There Is Always Hope with Myra Fields-Rouse

No Problem Is Too Big: Finding The Courage To Seek Support featuring Darrin Henry

When One Door Closes: Strength In New Beginnings with Kat Kirkman

EPISODE RESOURCES

Need immediate help? Contact the Veterans Crisis Line via phone, text or online chat. Dial 988 then Press 1 or text 838255 or use the online chat at https://bit.ly/3OunXzg

Voice & Vision: https://bit.ly/3miwFoy

CompeerCORPS: https://bit.ly/3GgKryU

Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://bit.ly/40PtrrN or call 877-222-8387 (M-F 8am-8pm EST)

To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://bit.ly/3m8PBWS

View more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://bit.ly/416cf0Q