What if the journey to recovery for servicewomen is more intricate than we thought? Join us for an extraordinary conversation with Dr. Rita Nakashima Brock, a prominent authority on moral injury, as we uncover the deeply personal and unique experiences of female veterans dealing with moral injury. Through powerful storytelling, Dr. Brock illustrates the implicit biases that can hinder effective support, sharing a moving example of a veteran who, despite losing her legs, yearned to wear high heels. This episode shines a spotlight on the need to address gender-specific experiences to foster genuine healing and recovery.

Explore the profound impact of unresolved moral conflicts on one's conscience and how these can lead to moral distress and injury. Dr. Brock provides a nuanced differentiation between moral injury and PTSD, sparking a debate on whether moral injury should be medically diagnosed. We also delve into alternative cultural approaches to moral suffering and discuss protocols tailored for veterans that focus on acceptance and processing rather than attempting to erase the past. Learn about the therapeutic benefits of group support, as highlighted by a pilot program for female veterans, and how it adapted during the pandemic to continue aiding those in need.

Gain insights into the pioneering work of the Soul Repair Center and its diverse, religiously-informed approaches to moral injury and recovery. We discuss the center's comprehensive program for professionals and share stories that underline the complexities of moral injury. From the transformative journey of a chaplain at a psychiatric hospital to the life-long influence of compassionate religious leaders, this episode is a testament to the resilience and profound change that can come from addressing moral injury. Don't miss out on our preview of the upcoming Comprehensive Moral Injury Conference, featuring an array of exceptional speakers and the invaluable contributions of Dr. Brock and Volunteers of America.

Find out about Volunteers of America.

Learn about the 2024 Comprehensive Moral Injury Conference

Support the show