Battle of the Mind: The Invisible Wounds of War

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Combat doesn’t end when the mission does—and for many veterans, the real battle begins at home.

In this episode of Full Mental Bracket, Brent sits down with U.S. Army Sergeant Major (Ret.) David Spencer—a third-generation soldier who served in Desert Storm, Iraq, and beyond. With over 30 years in the military, David shares raw and powerful stories of service, leadership, and the toll of war on mental health.

Through personal experience and deep insight, he sheds light on PTSD, long-term trauma, and why so many veterans suffer in silence.

This conversation goes beyond the headlines to explore what healing looks like after decades of service—and why supporting our veterans means addressing what we can’t always see.

✅ What combat-related PTSD really looks like—from someone who lived it
✅ The emotional and psychological cost of military service
✅ Why many veterans feel isolated and misunderstood after deployment
✅ The importance of long-term mental health support for those who served
✅ What we can all do to better support the veteran community

1️⃣ Trauma doesn’t retire — Even after service ends, the effects of combat can linger for decades
2️⃣ PTSD is complex — It shows up differently in people and deserves personalized care
3️⃣ Silence isn’t strength — Sharing stories can help break stigma and start healing
4️⃣ Community matters — Understanding and support are essential for reintegration
5️⃣ Mental fitness is just as vital as physical strength — Especially after combat

🎧 Listen now to understand the invisible wounds of war—and how healing begins with awareness and compassion.

⏳ 00:00:00 – Introduction
⏳ 00:02:15 – David Spencer’s Military Journey
⏳ 00:05:15 – Understanding Military Stress
⏳ 00:06:52 – The Reality of Military Life
⏳ 00:09:37 – The Onset and Evolution of PTSD
⏳ 00:13:20 – Defining PTSD
⏳ 00:16:31 – Gut Instincts and Awareness
⏳ 00:22:42 – The Military Mental Health Gap
⏳ 00:27:36 – Suicide Rates Among Veterans
⏳ 00:30:37 – Closing Thoughts on Support for Veterans

Full Transcript

This episode opens the door to deeper understanding of military trauma and recovery.

• Definition of PTSD – American Psychological Association
• Trauma Recovery: A Heroic Journey – 2017 – Keck, Compton, Schoeneberg, & Compton

🔗 Related Episodes & Resources:

• Part 2 of this conversation on veterans and PTSD – PTSD Recovery Secrets: Facing the Healing Journey, Triggers & Coping Strategies – #014
• More on the rebuilding relationships after separation – Marriage of Growth: Beyond Happily Ever After – #012
• More on what comes after trauma – Embrace the Struggle – Lean In and Level Up – #005

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