PTSD Bytes

PTSD Bytes

Welcome to the VA podcast series, PTSD Bytes! In each episode, host and clinical psychologist Colleen Becket-Davenport from the VA National Center for PTSD talks to an expert or innovator about how technology can support people with PTSD or other mental health concerns. There are many resources out there, so join us for “bite-sized” episodes featuring practical information you can use or share. Visit www.ptsd.va.gov/podcast for more information.

Episodes

January 7, 2025 11 mins
Dr. Joseph Simonetti discusses “lethal means safety” as a proactive approach to reducing suicide risk, particularly among individuals with PTSD and other mental health conditions. He offers tips for managing access to medications, firearms, and household items and discusses helpful VA resources like the Safety Plan app. Check out www.ptsd.va.gov for more information! 

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedt...
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For some people, PTSD can make finding and keeping a job difficult. On this episode, Dr. Elissa McCarthy joins us to talk about common workplace challenges for individuals with PTSD and share tips and resources for overcoming obstacles so that you can thrive at work. 

 Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP45.pdf ===============================
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November 12, 2024 12 mins
In this episode, Dr. Micaela Cornis-Pop and Dr. Joel Scholten explain the connections between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and PTSD, particularly among Veterans. They discuss ways to manage symptoms through lifestyle changes and digital resources, such as the Concussion Coach mobile app. They also discuss treatment options for people who experience both TBI and PTSD.

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October 15, 2024 11 mins
Chronic pain is very common, affecting about 1 in 4 people in the US, and can impact our lives in many ways. In this episode, Drs. Murphy and Hadlandsmyth explain the difference between acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) pain, and the relationship between pain and PTSD. They also talk about treatment options and digital tools for self-management of pain symptoms.

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September 10, 2024 12 mins
PTSD symptoms can appear, increase, or otherwise change as we age. On this episode, Dr. Jennifer Moye talks about PTSD later in life, the resilience of older adults, and why it's never too late to seek treatment. 

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP42.pdf ===============================
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August 13, 2024 11 mins
Did you know that Veterans are more likely to have eating disorders than non-Veterans? On this episode of PTSD Bytes, Dr. Joanna Dognin breaks down stereotypes about eating disorders, explains the relationship between trauma and disordered eating behaviors, and talks about how to get help.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP41.pdf ===============================
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VA’s National Center for PTSD develops mental health apps for a range of mental health concerns, like PTSD, insomnia, anger, and much more. Dr. Sarah Senti discusses the importance of feedback from Veterans to guide the development of VA mental health apps, and explains how Veterans can share their input or volunteer to participate in user testing.

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In this episode, Dr. Matthew Stimmel explores the connection between PTSD, Veterans, and the criminal legal system. He also shares resources for Veterans who have been arrested or incarcerated, including the VA’s Veterans Justice Outreach Program and Veterans Treatment Courts.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP39.pdf ===============================
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Massed treatment for PTSD” refers to psychotherapy for PTSD that is completed in a shorter timeframe – that is, treatment is completed in a matter of weeks instead of months. In this episode, Dr. Wachen discusses different options for VA massed treatment programs, potential benefits and challenges, and how free digital mental health tools can support your recovery journey.

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April 9, 2024 11 mins
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a chronic illness that disproportionately affects the Veteran community. In this episode of the PTSD Bytes podcast, Dr. Hemmy discusses risk factors for contracting HIV, challenges after receiving a positive diagnosis, and tips for people who have both HIV and PTSD to help navigate treatment.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP37.pdf...
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In this episode, we explore PTSD resources available for active duty and reserve component service members. Dr Greg Reger, psychologist and Guard member, explains the unique challenges each group faces when  seeking treatment for PTSD. He also discusses free digital tools and how they can be used for self-care or incorporated into treatment.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBy...
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February 13, 2024 11 mins
In this second episode of a two-part series, Lisa-Ann Cuccurullo addresses more myths about PTSD, its symptoms, and whether it can be treated. She also describes how you can work together with a mental health provider as your partner to choose a treatment that works best for you.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP35.pdf ===============================
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January 16, 2024 10 mins
There are many common myths about what causes PTSD and what recovery looks like. In the first episode of a two-part series, Dr. Kelly Maieritsch debunks some of these misconceptions and recommends a resource to better understand the experiences of people living with PTSD.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP34.pdf ===============================
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December 12, 2023 12 mins
Suicide is a major public health problem. Dr. Greg Brown discusses risk factors for suicide, such as PTSD, and how a safety plan can help people manage a suicidal crisis. Learn tips for making a safety plan and things to consider for keeping your plan on paper or in the Safety Plan mobile app. Find out how to talk to your loved ones if they are having thoughts of suicide.

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November 14, 2023 12 mins
Social media has both benefits and drawbacks. In this episode, Dr. Price discusses the relationship between social media use and mental health, particularly PTSD. He will offer tips on how to balance your social media and device use to best support your mental health.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP32.pdf ===============================
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Natural disasters and mass violence affect individuals, first responders, and whole communities. Dr. Patricia Watson discusses common reactions to these types of events. Learn how to take care of your mental health and how to support others in the days, weeks, and months after. Explore digital tools that can help you manage symptoms of PTSD or depression, and learn when to consider professional help.

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August 15, 2023 11 mins
With so many mental health apps available, finding one that works for you can be a challenge. In this episode, Dr. John Torous discusses the benefits of using mental health apps and the tools for findings apps that meet your needs, protect your data, and are backed by research.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSDBytes_EP29.pdf ===============================
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Attending mental health appointments via video can be a convenient way to receive care without needing to travel or leave your home. Dr. Cindy Woolverton discusses the benefits of video mental health care and offers tips on getting started. Learn about the different resources available to help you find a provider and get comfortable using video technology.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/...
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June 13, 2023 11 mins
Problems and stress are a normal part of life, but sometimes they can feel overwhelming. Dr. Shannon Sisco discusses how Problem-Solving Therapy can help you learn to solve big and small problems in your life and teach you how to cope with the stress that comes with them. Learn about Moving Forward, a web-based course that can be done on your own or to support Problem-Solving Therapy.

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May 9, 2023 11 mins
Everyone responds to racism differently, and reactions can include anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. Dr. Brittany Hall-Clark discusses racial stress and trauma and shares how to heal from trauma while living in a world where racism still exists. Learn about different types of treatment for race-based stress, and tools to empower you to cope.

Closed Caption Transcript is available at: https://www.sharedfedtraining.org/Podcasts/PTSD...
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