After trauma, even something as simple as a hug can feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever stood in a room, watching others embrace while you froze—feeling insecure, confused, or even broken—you’re not alone.

In this episode of Unbreakable Resilience, PTSD survivor and 11-year police officer/Sheriff’s Office Deputy veteran Giuseppe Chiaramonte, Ed.D. dives into why First Responders healing from PTSD, anxiety, and depression often struggle with touch. You’ll learn how trauma impacts your nervous system, why your body pulls back to protect you, and why this doesn’t mean you’ll feel this way forever.

With reflection questions and raw personal stories, Giuseppe helps you honor your body’s boundaries and remind you: you’re healing, and your body is your safe zone. Take as much time as you need.

In this powerful recap of Phase 2, Giuseppe Chiaramonte Ed.D. revisits the essential lessons for healing from within. From practicing self-kindness (Episode 11) and setting healthy boundaries to embracing discomfort and building strong relationships, these strategies help you reconnect with your inner strength. But healing doesn’t happen in isolation. Giuseppe reminds us why a local support system — therapists, friends, family, and community — is vital for recovery from trauma. Listen now and take the next step toward unbreakable resilience.

Join 11-year law enforcement veteran and PTSD survivor Giuseppe Chiaramonte Ed.D. as he explores the transformative power of stepping outside your comfort zone—whether by taking a new route on a morning walk or embracing travel and new experiences—as a vital part of healing from PTSD and trauma. Drawing from personal reflections, Giuseppe discusses how PTSD traps us in destructive mental loops and how healing strategies must be fluid, evolving as we do. He shares why planning ahead for something enjoyable, like travel, helps break toxic cycles and renew energy. This episode offers practical mental health insights on embracing discomfort, shifting perspectives, and cultivating resilience on your journey toward mental wellness. Perfect for first responders and anyone navigating trauma recovery.