Do you have a chronic illness or autoimmune disease? Are you tired of being sick and tired? Here we talk to specialists who know what we’re going through and want to help us and support us however they can.
All content for Silent Strength with Invisible Warriors is the property of Nancy Becher and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Do you have a chronic illness or autoimmune disease? Are you tired of being sick and tired? Here we talk to specialists who know what we’re going through and want to help us and support us however they can.
Key Takeaways
Self-compassion and perspective-taking are crucial for managing mental health challenges
Breathing techniques (especially extended exhales) can help regulate anxiety and stress
Small, gradual steps and support systems are key for overcoming avoidance behaviors
Acknowledging issues, seeking help, and celebrating small victories are important for progress
Topics
Podcast Introduction and Guest Welcome
Nancy Becher introduces "Silent Strength" podcast, focused on women veterans with PTS/military trauma
Podcast aims to share stories, provide expert insights, and create a supportive community
Renee Zukin welcomed as guest to share her personal journey and insights
Renee's Background and Book
Renee wrote "Every Day I'm Brave" about transforming her relationship with fear
Book includes journal prompts to help readers process their experiences
Renee has multiple diagnoses (anxiety, depression, OCD, panic disorder, agoraphobia) but doesn't let them define her
Challenges of Self-Compassion and Perspective
Nancy shares personal struggle with depression and self-judgment
Renee emphasizes importance of self-compassion and avoiding shame spirals
Discussion on reframing negative self-talk and gaining broader perspective on situations
Coping Strategies and Techniques
Breathing technique: Focus on extended exhales to slow heart rate (inhale for 4, exhale for 5-7 counts)
Writing/journaling to gain outside perspective on thoughts and feelings
Gradual exposure therapy for facing fears (e.g., small steps for leaving the house)
Distraction techniques (e.g., playing phone games during stressful car rides)
Importance of Acknowledgment and Support
Difficulty in getting women to acknowledge invisible illnesses and seek help
Veterans more open to seeking support through Invisible Warriors organization
Value of creating safe spaces for women to connect and share experiences
Three Key Pieces of Advice
Practice self-kindness and allow feelings without judgment
Seek support (therapist, friends, podcasts, books) from understanding sources
Remember your inherent bravery and resilience
Added by Nancy: Celebrate even small steps of progress
Next Steps
Listeners encouraged to leave reviews/ratings for the podcast on iTunes
Follow Invisible Warriors on LinkedIn and YouTube for updates
Upcoming wilderness retreat in late September focusing on mental health topics
Interested participants should contact Nancy for sign-up information
Silent Strength with Invisible Warriors
Do you have a chronic illness or autoimmune disease? Are you tired of being sick and tired? Here we talk to specialists who know what we’re going through and want to help us and support us however they can.
