Resources

Here you will find a collection of tools to support your recovery journey.  Please enjoy these books, videos and free printables.

Books

Summiting Your PTSD Mountain: Lessons from Kilimanjaro

PTSD recovery is no easy feat, and neither is climbing a mountain. It’s time for a new perspective and a stronger chance of recovery. You might be surprised by the number of similarities that exist between overcoming trauma and climbing a mountain, but this could be the most useful metaphor you’ll ever hear.

This unique guide to PTSD recovery uncovers the key ingredient to recovery, a clearer understanding of “the trauma loop”, the skills from your professional training that may be making your recovery harder, the top strategies to make recovery easier, and much more.

You may feel like you’ve already tried every trick in the book. It’s time for a fresh perspective, and this book is everything you need to find just that.

Standing Strong: A Workbook for Veterans and First Responders Navigating the Stress of Service

This workbook has been created to help you understand what may be happening to you and assist in the journey of reclaiming your health.

It’s based on principles of mindfulness, cognitive behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and emotion-focused therapy.

Together, we will explore themes common to hundreds of thousands of veterans and first responders who have struggled with injuries they incurred in their work.

We know recovery is possible; we have seen people reclaim their lives even after years or decades of injury. This is possible for you too. Please use this workbook as a resource to assist in your recovery.

Videos

The Stranger Returns comic book series aims to reduce isolation, instill hope, and provide tools to assist in recovery from Operational Stress Injuries.  Follow the story of Jay’s journey: Jay’s return as a decorated veteran was not what he thought it would be. As he attempts to bridge the transition from military to civilian life, he faces unexpected challenges. Although he is no longer part of the military, he realizes that he does not know how to stop being a soldier. He has been well trained to fight but doesn’t know how to stand down.

Printables

10 Signs That You Could Have PTSD

So what kinds of trauma exposure can lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?  It could involve directly experiencing a traumatic event or witnessing it happen to others.  You may have learned of a traumatic event happening to a close friend or family member, or be repeatedly exposed to aversive details of traumatic events.  There is something about the exposure that stays with you, affecting your ability to be with others, do school, your job, or feel comfortable within yourself. 

12 Stragies For Loving Someone With PTSD

Experiencing or witnessing traumatic events can have profound effects on one’s life. Some changes are predictable, while others might come as a surprise. Sometimes, knowing what to expect isn’t enough. Knowing how to respond effectively is critical. We have compiled a list of suggestions that we hope you will find helpful in supporting someone you love who may have PTSD.

12 Secrets For Successful Sleep

The diagnosis of PTSD, anxiety or depression can often be accompanies by difficulties sleeping. An overactive mind combined with a supercharged central nervous system can make sleep a highly sought after commodity. Without proper rest, our mental functions (memory, focus, attention) and mood can be further compromised.

8 Holiday Hacks to Keep your Recovery on Track

The holidays can be a time of increased stress, with pressure to go out or participate in festivities.  It can present a challenge in terms of keeping on track with recovery.  This resource outlines some steps you can take to make this holiday season a successful one.