This episode of the Veteran Spouse Network Podcast explores the emotional challenges that can arise during the holidays from grief and loneliness to the pressures of keeping up appearances. Guest Jasmine Lott, an Air Force veteran and mental health nurse, joins host Hannah O’Brien to discuss suicide prevention, coping with loss, and how to support loved ones who may be struggling.

🧠 Key Takeaways

• Holidays can be joyful and emotionally heavy — it’s okay to feel both.
• Talking about suicide saves lives; silence increases stigma.
• Support others by simply being present — avoid clichés like “it’ll be okay.”
• Grief looks different for everyone; honor your own process.
• Remember: help is always available through 988, NAMI, the VA, and the Veteran Spouse Network.

💡 Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988
• Veteran Spouse Network: veteranspousenetwork.org
• NAMI: nami.org
• AFSP: afsp.org

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, host Hannah O’Brien sits down with long-time Veteran Spouse Network peer leader Tanya Mac to explore the difficult but important topic of domestic violence within military and veteran families. Tanya opens up about her personal journey—how she came to recognize the signs of an unhealthy relationship, the struggle of breaking cycles of abuse, and the profound impact these experiences can have on partners and children.

Tanya reflects on the role of community, creativity, and self-empowerment throughout her healing process, offering insight and encouragement for anyone navigating similar challenges.

Resources Mentioned

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://thehotline.org
• Veteran Spouse Network: https://veteranspousenetwork.org
• Additional local and national resources for domestic violence and mental health support

In this heartfelt conclusion to the It’s a Mother series, host Hannah O’Brien invites listeners into her deeply personal journey through the postpartum experience after welcoming her second child. Hannah shares the raw realities of recovery, sleep deprivation, and navigating the emotional and financial toll of early motherhood. From breastfeeding challenges and body image struggles to balancing career and childcare, she offers an honest reflection on the joys and hardships of raising two young children.

This episode shines a light on the importance of support systems, self-compassion, and community for mothers everywhere, especially those in military and veteran families.

Resources & Call to Action

• Learn more about the Veteran Spouse Network and find resources for military and veteran families.
• Catch up on earlier episodes in the It’s a Mother series for insights into pregnancy and early motherhood.
• If today’s episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and join us next month for more stories and resources designed for military and veteran families.