PTSD Recovery Secrets: Facing the Healing Journey, Triggers & Coping Strategies

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In this episode of Full Mental Bracket, Sergeant Major David Spencer returns to share his powerful journey of PTSD recovery and the strategies that helped him rebuild his life. From recognizing triggers to finding strength in community, David opens up about the realities of trauma and what it takes to move forward.

You’ll hear how journaling became a tool for emotional healing, why support systems are essential for resilience, and how his loyal dog Charlie played a pivotal role in his recovery. David also introduces his “three circles” model of friendship, a framework that can help anyone cultivate healthier, more supportive relationships.

Whether you’re a veteran, a family member, or simply someone interested in mental health, this conversation is packed with practical tools, personal stories, and encouragement for navigating trauma recovery.

✅ What PTSD really is and how to recognize its triggers
✅ Why community and support systems matter in healing
✅ How journaling can reduce stress and process emotions
✅ The “three circles” friendship model for mental health
✅ The healing power of emotional support animals
✅ Why facing trauma directly is key to long-term growth

🎧 Listen now to hear how one man found strength in community, friendship, and even his dog Charlie on the path to PTSD recovery.

⏳ 00:00:00 – Introduction
⏳ 00:01:04 – What PTSD feels like and how triggers show up in daily life
⏳ 00:05:56 – Why community and support are crucial for healing trauma
⏳ 00:08:01 – Using journaling to process emotions and reduce stress
⏳ 00:10:44 – David’s “three circles” model for building healthy friendships
⏳ 00:17:37 – How Charlie the support dog became part of David’s healing
⏳ 00:27:01 – Facing trauma head-on and finding strength in recovery
⏳ 00:30:17 – Taking responsibility and moving forward after PTSD

Full Transcript

This episode offers an inside look at the lived reality of PTSD recovery—covering triggers, journaling, support systems, and healing through connection.

• Trauma Recovery: A Heroic Journey – 2017 – Keck, Compton, Schoeneberg, & Compton
• A Hero’s Journey of Post-Traumatic Growth – 2024 – Sandra Gut

• Listen to part 1 of this conversation on veterans and PTSD – Battle of the Mind: The Invisible Wounds of War – #013
• More on the importance of a supportive community – Find Your Tribe – Because No One Succeeds Alone – #004
• More on the circle of transformation in the Hero’s Journey – Legacy and Return: A Hero’s Reward – #007

Listen now

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