What happens when your nervous system learned to survive, and never got the memo that the threat is over. This is real. You are not going crazy.

You go to therapy. You do the work. You leave. You rebuild. You get up in the morning and you function, and people tell you that you look better, that you seem stronger, that they are proud of you. And you smile because you are too tired to explain what is still happening inside your body every single time you walk out of your front door.

You scan the car park before you step out. You sit with your back to the wall in restaurants. You know exactly how many steps it takes to reach the nearest exit. You flinch at raised voices. You stop when you smell a familiar scent. You do not sleep deeply in unfamiliar places. You grip your keys. You count people. You measure distance.

And nobody prepared you for this.

Nobody told you that you can heal and still feel completely, persistently unsafe in the world. You can be out of the relationship, out of the house, out of the situation, and your body will still run the same threat detection it learned to survive.

You are not failing. Stay with me.

The Science Nobody Explains In Plain Language

This is the part nobody explains properly.

Your conscious mind knows you are safe. You left. You rebuilt. You are in a new place with new people. You understand this intellectually.

But your nervous system does not run on logic. It runs on pattern recognition. It learned what danger looked like, sounded like, smelled like. It memorised every cue that came before harm. And now, years later, it still fires when it detects those cues.

Not because you are broken.

Because your body was trained to keep you alive and it takes its job seriously.

When you experience trauma, especially repeated trauma from someone who was supposed to be safe, your threat detection system gets recalibrated. The baseline shifts. What used to feel normal now feels dangerous. What used to feel safe now requires constant checking.

Dr Stephen Porges calls this distorted neuroception. Your body learned to detect threat in ways that kept you alive then. It has not received the update that you are out now.

This is not you refusing to move on.

This is your body doing what it was designed to do.

The software has not been updated. Your environment changed but your nervous system is still running the old threat assessment.

Healing your mind does not automatically reprogram your nervous system. You can understand everything that happened to you. You can process it, name it, reframe it. And your body can still react like the threat is present.

That is not a personal failure.

That is biology.

And anyone who tells you to just think positive or let it go does not understand how the nervous system actually works.

The Numbers

This is not rare. This is global.

Around 70 percent of people will experience at least one potentially traumatic event in their lifetime. Almost one in three women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence. One in four women and one in nine men are victims of domestic violence. Three in four high school students report experiencing adverse childhood experiences. Nearly one in three mental health conditions in adulthood are directly linked to childhood trauma.

Among survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse, rates of Complex PTSD may be as high as 40 percent.

Not PTSD. Complex PTSD. The kind that develops from repeated, prolonged exposure to harm from someone who was supposed to be safe. The kind that reshapes identity, self worth, emotional regulation, and your entire relationship with safety.

Men carry this. Women carry this. Children carry it into adulthood. Entire communities carry it without ever being counted.

The nervous system does not ask who you are before it reacts.

What Actually Helps.

Talk therapy is valuable. Processing what happened matters. But a nervous system in survival mode does not respond to logic alone.

Here is what survivors are actually saying works.

Grounding is not a tick box exercise. Grounding is not so you can say you named five things that are green or exhaled to the count of four. The aim is to move out of danger mode back into daily life mode. To bring your front brain back online. To signal safety to a system that is stuck in threat detection.

Some survivors say the 5 4 3 2 1 technique helps. Five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, one you can taste. Others say it does nothing. One survivor shared that they keep dumbbells lying around so they can immediately channel the activation into something physical. Another uses shamanic drumming with headphones. Another talks themselves down out loud: “I am safe. I am in my house. It is this date. I am alone. I am okay.”

Not all grounding techniques work for everyone. What feels grounding to one person may feel threatening to another. If closing your eyes makes you feel vulnerable because danger arrived silently, do not close your eyes. If focusing on breath triggers you because your breath was ever crushed out of you, do not focus on breath. The technique has to be tuned to you. You have to know what works for your body.

Body awareness is not always safe for trauma survivors. Some survivors find any focus on the body too activating. If that is you, external sensory anchors work better. Count tiles. Notice colours. Touch something textured. The goal is the same: bring attention back to the present without triggering the alarm.

The out breath engages the parasympathetic nervous system. This is not wellness bullshit. Exhale longer than you inhale. Breathe out for twice as long as you breathe in. This activates the vagus nerve and slows down the stress response.

Coregulation is real. Meeting with trusted people in person has the most benefit because the nervous system often attunes to the calmness of others. Your body can borrow safety from someone else’s steady system. This is why isolation makes everything worse. You are not meant to regulate alone. Isolation may work for a while, but it will eventually catch up and you will realise that it is important to be around people.

Grounding is not avoidance. It is regulation. It helps you stay present with your feelings without being overwhelmed by them. It is creating a stable base so emotions can rise and fall safely, rather than taking over completely.

And here is the part nobody wants to say: sometimes grounding feels like being fobbed off. Sometimes you do not want a technique. You want to be heard. The healing is in the hearing. Grounding is not a replacement for being witnessed. It is a tool to contain distress long enough until appropriate help is available.

The world treats survivors like leaving was the hardest part. It was not. The hardest part comes after, when you are “free” but still trapped in your own mind, your own body, your own nervous system. You did not escape. You just changed prisons.

Cutting Toxic People Out. Yes, We Have To Do This.

Here is what nobody tells you about healing.

Sometimes the hardest part is not leaving the abuser.

It is leaving everyone who enabled, minimised, or refused to see what was happening.

I cut them all out.

Not because I wanted to. Not because it felt good. Not because it was easy. I did it because I realised I could not heal surrounded by people who made me question my own reality.

The people who told me I was making things up. The people who said “it was not that bad”. The people who said “but they are family”, as if blood is a free pass for harm. The people who expected me to just move on, be grateful, and stop bringing up the past. The people who treated my pain like an inconvenience.

I stopped making excuses for them.

I stopped waiting for them to understand.

I stopped believing that if I just explained it better, they would finally get it.

They were not going to get it. They were invested in not getting it. My healing was a threat to their version of events.

So I let them go.

Not all at once. It happened in stages. Some I confronted directly. Some I just quietly disappeared from. Some came back after I set a boundary, apologising with words but repeating the same behaviour. Those I had to cut again. And again. Until I stopped answering.

It was lonely, mostly at first. It is still lonely sometimes.

But I would rather be lonely and stable than surrounded and constantly destabilised.

Toxic people do not respect boundaries. That is what makes them toxic. They violate the line, apologise when caught, then violate it again. One apology followed by the same behaviour is not growth. It is a performance. Trust patterns over promises.

If you have repeated a boundary more than twice and it is still ignored, that person does not respect you. That is information. Use it.

Cutting someone off is not revenge. It is not cruelty. It is choosing peace. And peace is always worth choosing.

You are allowed to outgrow relationships that no longer align with your values. You are allowed to protect yourself from people who make you question your worth. You are allowed to walk away from anyone who consistently brings chaos, criticism, or collapse into your life.

Even if they are family.

Especially if they are family.

Because the myth that blood is thicker than water has been used to trap survivors in harm for generations. And I am done participating in it.

What Healing Outside Actually Looks Like.

If you are reading this and recognising yourself, hear me.

What you feel when you walk outside and your body treats the world like a threat, it is not failure.

It is not you refusing to move on.

It is your nervous system doing the job it was trained to do.

The return to real safety is slow. It involves your body, not just your thoughts. It involves safe relationships, repeated experiences, and time.

Real time.

Not weeks. Not months. Sometimes years.

And it requires something most people are never told.

The world did not feel safe because it was not safe.

Your read was accurate.

What you are doing now is not living in the past. It is a body that has not yet been given enough consistent evidence that the present is different.

Dear Survivor,

I was a victim.

I spent years not being able to say that without shame rising in my throat. My life reflected it.

I fell apart in ways I did not know were possible and still kept going. I lost my home. I lost myself. I lost my children, and I fought for them in a way that changes you at your core.

I went through the court system and learned what it feels like to have your pain reduced to paperwork. I sat in police stations, not because people did not care, but because the system is stretched and cannot always hold what you are carrying. I often left feeling smaller than when I walked in.

I sat across from counsellors trying to explain things that do not have simple words. I moved. I started over. I moved again. I started over again.

I am still healing. My life is not easy, or perfect, or whole. My life is better.

You deserve honesty more than a polished version of recovery.

There are still hard days. There are still moments where everything shows up uninvited and sits heavy on your chest.

But I am not where I was.

And that distance matters.

The healing is worth it. It is not easy. But you begin to recognise yourself again. You hear your own voice. You take up space without apologising.

This process is lonely in a way that is difficult to explain. You can be surrounded by people and still feel like you are carrying it alone.

That is real.

But lonely does not mean abandoned. And hard does not mean impossible.

I chose my easiest hard. If that makes sense?

Do not give up on yourself.

Not when the system fails you, because sometimes it will. Not when people do not show up, because sometimes they will not. Not when you feel unrecognisable to yourself.

You get up.

You mentally fight.

For yourself first, because you mattered before anyone made you feel otherwise.

For your children, if you have them.

For the part of you that is still there, still intact, still waiting to be heard.

You do what you need to do.

As many times as it takes.

You do not stop.

With love, healing, and everything good,

Zen

P.S. You have got this. Even when it does not feel like it.

You were not paranoid. You were not crazy. You were right. And now your work is to slowly, without pressure and without a deadline, teach your body a different truth.

View her on Substack

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Many police officers, first responders, or public service personnel (PSP) avoid seeking mental health treatment for various, often legitimate reasons. Most choose to live with their symptoms instead of confronting the internal challenges they face. This reluctance has led to the tragic statistic that more officers die from suicide than from gunfire and traffic accidents combined.

1. The Stigma

The first reason officers avoid mental health help is the stigma surrounding it. Unlike treatment for physical conditions like musculoskeletal injuries or diabetes, mental health treatment is often perceived as a sign of weakness. Mental health struggles are seen as something “wrong” with the person, rather than an external issue that can be treated. This stigma is especially prevalent for officers dealing with PTSD, who fear the impact on their careers, including promotional opportunities, job assignments, and concerns about being placed on desk duty or even fired.

Despite this, many officers continue to serve and perform their duties effectively, even with PTSD symptoms. This demonstrates the resilience and capability of police officers, first responders, and PSPs, even when they are struggling internally. While some cases may require light duty or termination, most officers can still manage their responsibilities despite their challenges.

2. The Culture of Stoicism

Another barrier to seeking help is the culture of stoicism that exists within law enforcement. Stoicism, which emphasizes enduring pain and hardship without expressing feelings, is essential in high-stress situations. It allows officers to separate their emotions from the trauma they experience on duty. However, this mindset can be problematic if officers completely shut off their emotions. Over time, these emotions must be processed, or they can remain bottled up, leading to further mental health challenges.

The stoic mindset is necessary in police work, as officers need to remain composed in the face of trauma. However, officers must also acknowledge and process their emotions. Recognizing the need for mental health support is crucial for maintaining their well-being.

3. Distrust of Mental Health Professionals

The third reason many officers avoid seeking treatment is a deep distrust of mental health professionals and, often, others outside their profession. Officers live in a close-knit community and often feel misunderstood by those who cannot relate to their experiences. This sense of isolation can make it hard for them to reach out for help, even when they are struggling with PTSD or other mental issues.

Many officers feel that mental health professionals may not fully understand the unique challenges of their profession. This lack of understanding can prevent officers from seeking the help they need.

How We Can Change This

It’s time to change the narrative and encourage officers to seek the help they deserve.

• For officers: Take action to support your own mental health and that of your colleagues. Increase awareness of stress and PTSD within your department. Teach stress management or bring in a professional to lead a workshop. Promote open conversations and create an environment where mental health is discussed without fear of judgment.
• For administrators: Implement policies that support officers’ mental health. Make it clear that seeking professional help will not jeopardize their careers. Prioritize the wellness and health of your officers, as they are your greatest asset.
• For mental health professionals: Reach out to local police agencies to offer training and education. Establish a rapport with officers by becoming a familiar face they can trust. Help break down the stigma surrounding mental health within police agencies and the community.

By working together, we can eliminate the barriers that prevent officers from seeking the help they need. Educating officers about the differences between licensed counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, and doctors, and explaining how their medical records are protected, will further help to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health treatment.

For more resources please follow our Resources page.

Steve Rose, PHD

As you navigate the intricate journey of recovery, understanding the stages of relapse allows you to spot the signs of a relapse before it happens. Relapses typically unfold in stages that subtly transition from emotional unease to mental conflict, and, without intervention, may culminate in physical relapse.

In the initial stage, you might find yourself grappling with emotions and behaviors that quietly undermine your recovery foundation. You may not be thinking about using again, but your feelings of anxiety, isolation, or neglect of self-care are like quiet whispers, hinting at the possibility of relapse without directly acknowledging it.

As you move into the mental relapse stage, the whispers become a conversation—a battle, even—between the part of you that cherishes your progress and the part that yearns for escape. It’s here that the idea of using begins to take a more definite shape, tempting you with memories of use that gloss over the pain and struggle that followed.

If this inner turmoil goes unaddressed, you may find yourself stepping into the realm of physical relapse, where you act on your thoughts of using. It might start with a decision that seems inconsequential but can quickly spiral back into the cycle of addiction.

This article aims to illuminate these stages, offering you the insights and tools to recognize and counteract them. By understanding the nuanced progression of relapse, you empower yourself and your support network to act decisively, reinforcing your journey toward lasting recovery.

Emotional Relapse: The Silent Prelude

Understanding Emotional Relapse

Emotional relapse is the first and most deceptive stage in the relapse process. During this phase, you’re not consciously thinking about returning to substance use, but your emotions and behaviors may be silently laying the groundwork for a potential relapse. It’s characterized by feelings and actions that erode your emotional stability and recovery resilience, often without your direct awareness.

Recognizing the Signs

The signs of emotional relapse are subtle, yet recognizing them is crucial for maintaining your recovery journey. They include:

• Increased Anxiety: You might feel more anxious than usual, with a persistent sense of unease that’s hard to shake off.
• Intolerance and Anger: Small irritations become major issues. You may find yourself quick to anger and hard to please.
• Mood Swings: Your emotional state may fluctuate widely, feeling fine one moment and overwhelmingly negative the next.
• Isolation: Pulling away from friends, family, and support groups, you might start skipping recovery meetings or avoiding calls.
• Not Asking for Help: Even when you know you need it, there’s a tendency to internalize your struggles rather than reaching out.
• Neglecting Self-Care: Poor eating and sleeping habits start to creep in, along with neglecting your hygiene and personal well-being.

Navigating Through Emotional Relapse

Recognizing these signs is the first step toward averting the progression to further relapse stages. Here are strategies to help you navigate through emotional relapse:

• Stress Management: Engage in activities that reduce stress. Yoga, meditation, exercise, and hobbies can offer relief and a positive outlet for your emotions.
• Build Your Support System: Lean on friends, family, and recovery groups. Share your feelings and experiences, even if you don’t feel like it. The act of sharing can lighten your emotional load.
• Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, making you more resilient to emotional turmoil.
• Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness and meditation can help you stay grounded in the present, making it easier to manage negative emotions and stress.
• Seek Professional Help: If you find it challenging to manage your emotions or notice a significant impact on your daily life, consider seeking help from a counselor or therapist specialized in addiction recovery.

Emotional relapse doesn’t have to lead to substance use. By acknowledging your emotions and taking proactive steps to manage them, you can reinforce your foundation in recovery and continue moving forward on your journey.

Mental Relapse: The Inner Conflict

Understanding Mental Relapse

In the stage of mental relapse, the inner conflict between wanting to use and wanting to remain in recovery becomes pronounced. This stage is characterized by a mental tug-of-war: part of you may start reminiscing about the days of substance use, while another part remembers the reasons you chose sobriety. Mental relapse is marked by an increased struggle with thoughts about using, making it a critical time to employ strategies that can steer you back towards recovery.

Recognizing the Signs

Identifying the signs of mental relapse is essential for preventing a return to substance use. These signs include:

• Glamorizing Past Use: You might catch yourself fondly remembering the times you used substances, conveniently forgetting the negative consequences that followed.
• Lying: Small lies to yourself or others about where you’ve been or what you’ve been doing can signal a shift towards old behaviors.
• Hanging Out with Old Using Friends: Reconnecting with friends who use can increase temptation and rationalize your thoughts about relapsing.
• Fantasizing About Using: You may find yourself daydreaming about using, imagining scenarios where you indulge in substance use.
• Planning Relapse: The thought process might shift to planning how to use again, possibly scheming to use around others’ schedules to avoid detection.

Navigating Through Mental Relapse

Engaging in proactive strategies is crucial to combat the mental urges and keep relapse at bay. Here are some effective ways to navigate through this challenging stage:

• Play The Movie Until The End: When having thoughts of using, you’re only seeing the metaphorical highlight reel, not the full movie. Take a step back and watch the full move, hour by hour, until the end.
• Talk About It: Sharing your thoughts with someone you trust can significantly lessen their power over you. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or therapist, talking can provide perspective and support.
• Engage in Healthy Activities: Fill your time with activities that bring you joy and satisfaction without substance use. Hobbies, exercise, and volunteering can redirect your focus and energy.
• Avoid Triggers: Stay away from people, places, and situations that trigger your desire to use. Creating a safe environment is key to maintaining your recovery path.
• Use Delay Tactics: When thoughts of using become overwhelming, tell yourself to wait for 30 minutes or an hour. Often, the urge will pass or become more manageable within that time.

Seek Professional Help

If mental relapse signs persist or your struggle intensifies, seeking professional help is a critical step. A therapist specialized in addiction recovery can provide the tools and strategies to navigate through this stage, reinforcing your commitment to recovery and helping you maintain sobriety.

Mental relapse is a challenging stage, but it’s also a test of your resilience and commitment to recovery. By recognizing the signs and employing effective strategies, you can navigate through this stage and continue on your path to long-term recovery.

Physical Relapse: Crossing the Threshold

Understanding Physical Relapse

Physical relapse is the stage where the mental debates and emotional unrest culminate in the act of substance use. It represents a critical juncture where the theoretical risk of relapse becomes a reality. This stage signifies a moment of action that reverses the progress made in recovery, highlighting the importance of immediate intervention to return to the path of sobriety.

Recognizing the Signs

Physical relapse may not always start with a conscious decision to return to substance use. It can be triggered by a series of seemingly minor decisions that lead to a situation where the temptation to use becomes overwhelming. Recognizing the early signs of emotional and mental relapse is crucial to preventing physical relapse. However, once physical relapse occurs, it’s essential to acknowledge it quickly and seek support.

Navigating Through Physical Relapse

If physical relapse occurs, it’s vital to treat it as a setback rather than a failure. Here are steps to navigate back to recovery:

• Immediate Acknowledgment: Recognize the relapse as soon as it happens. Denial can lead to prolonged substance use and delay the return to recovery.
• Seek Support: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or sponsor in your recovery network. Honesty about the relapse can open doors to support and guidance.
• Revisit Your Recovery Plan: Review and adjust your recovery plan with the help of a professional. Understand what led to the relapse and how to address those triggers moving forward.
• Re-engage with Treatment: Whether it’s returning to therapy, attending support group meetings, or considering inpatient treatment, re-engaging with professional help is crucial.
• Practice Self-Compassion: Relapse can bring feelings of guilt, shame, and failure. It’s essential to practice self-compassion, recognizing that recovery is a journey with potential setbacks.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing physical relapse starts early in the recovery process by addressing the emotional and mental stages of relapse:

• Early Intervention: Engaging in prevention strategies during the emotional and mental relapse stages can halt the progression to physical relapse.
• Emergency Action Plan: Have a plan for moments of strong temptation, including people to call and safe places to go.
• Continuous Self-Care: Maintaining a routine of self-care, including healthy eating, exercise, and mindfulness practices, supports emotional and mental health.
• Education: Understanding the nature of addiction and the process of recovery can empower you to navigate through difficult times with awareness and resilience.

Physical relapse is not the end of the recovery journey but a part of the learning process. It offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of your triggers, enhance your coping strategies, and strengthen your commitment to sobriety. With immediate action, support, and a compassionate approach to self, returning to the path of recovery is not just possible—it’s a pivotal step toward lasting change.

Reaching Out for Support: A Pathway to Resilience

As you navigate the complex and deeply personal journey of recovery, it’s crucial to remember that you are not alone. Each step you take, whether it feels like progress or a setback, is a part of your path toward healing. If you find yourself struggling with the stages of relapse or feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of recovery, I invite you to reach out for support.

The Power of Connection

In moments of doubt or difficulty, the support of others who understand your journey can be incredibly empowering. Whether it’s sharing your experiences, listening to others, or simply being in the presence of those who empathize without judgment, connection is a powerful tool for recovery.

Professional Support

As an addiction counselor, I offer a safe space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors associated with substance use and recovery. Together, we can develop strategies to manage the stages of relapse, address underlying issues, and build a resilient foundation for your recovery journey. Seeking professional support can provide you with personalized guidance and tools to navigate the complexities of addiction and recovery.

Peer Support

Support groups and peer-led meetings offer a sense of community and understanding that is unique to shared experience. Engaging with others who are on similar paths can provide comfort, insight, and the motivation to continue forward. These connections remind you that you’re not alone in your struggles or your achievements.

Family and Friends

The support of family and friends can be an invaluable resource during recovery. Open communication about your needs, boundaries, and experiences can strengthen these relationships and provide you with a network of care and encouragement.

Taking the Step

Reaching out for support is a sign of strength and an important step in your recovery. It’s an acknowledgment that you are committed to your well-being and willing to take action to sustain your journey toward health. Whether you’re facing the early signs of relapse or simply seeking to strengthen your recovery, support is available to you.

Remember, recovery is not a journey to be walked alone. It is a path best navigated with the support of others—professionals, peers, family, and friends—who can offer guidance, understanding, and encouragement every step of the way. If you’re feeling ready to reach out for support or have questions about the recovery process, I am here to help. Together, we can work towards a future defined by hope, resilience, and lasting recovery.

The Davidson Institute invites you to an exclusive online workshop on Operational Stress Recovery, designed specifically for Veterans, First Responders, and Helping Professionals. This workshop focuses on resilience and offers valuable tools and strategies to help you manage the unique challenges you face in high-stress professions.

Guided by the experienced team at The Davidson Institute, along with guest speakers, this workshop will offer interactive sessions filled with expert insights and personal experiences. You’ll walk away with practical tools that can enhance your mental well-being and resilience.

Workshop Topics Include:

• Operational Stress Injuries (OSI)
• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
• Trauma Yoga
• HeartMath Techniques
• Aromatherapy for Stress Relief
• DAVID DEVICE (Digital Audio-Visual Integration Device)
• Art Therapy for Healing
• Advanced Self-Regulation Practices
• Adventure Therapy
• Cognitive Processing and Trauma Recovery
• Peer Support and Community Building
• Chronic Pain and OSIs
• Cultural Competence in Therapy
• Sensory Deprivation Therapy
• Mindfulness & Nature Therapy
• Goal Setting and Future Planning
• Creative Sculpting for Emotional Release
• Sleep and Trauma Management
• Financial Wellness and Stress
• Music Therapy for Relaxation
• Psychiatry Q&A with Experts
• Equine Therapy for Healing
• Hobby Development for Resilience
• Nutrition and Its Impact on Mental Health
• Cryotherapy for Stress Relief
• Kindness Neurobiology
• Gottman Relationship Techniques
• Intimacy and Connection in Relationships

This comprehensive online workshop series will introduce you to selected practices and strategies from our in-depth 6-week program, condensed into a practical online format. Each session will take place bi-weekly, lasting one hour, and is designed to help you build resilience and improve well-being while managing operational stress.

Why Attend?

• Connect with fellow veterans, first responders, and helping professionals
• Learn from expert facilitators and guest speakers
• Gain practical, actionable tools to boost your mental health
• Strengthen resilience for high-stress environments

The Davidson Institute is proud to offer this workshop series at no cost to participants. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your support network and enhance your coping strategies.

Register now to secure your spot!

Brain fog is a common but often overlooked symptom in veterans, particularly those experiencing chronic pain. This condition affects cognitive function, including memory, focus, and decision-making. The ongoing research at McMaster University, led by Ronessa Dass and Dr. Tara Packham, aims to understand how brain fog impacts veterans’ mental health and daily lives. Supported by the Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans, the study strives to identify effective strategies to help veterans manage cognitive challenges.

Why Study Brain Fog in Veterans?

Veterans face a unique set of challenges related to cognitive function, often exacerbated by chronic pain or trauma. Understanding the effects of brain fog can improve the way veterans are treated, particularly when it comes to mental health support. By focusing on cognitive function and daily coping strategies, the research team aims to develop solutions that help veterans lead fulfilling, manageable lives despite their cognitive struggles.

How Veterans Can Participate in the Study

If you are a veteran experiencing brain fog, your participation in this study could provide valuable insights. You will participate in a Zoom discussion with other veterans, sharing your experiences and discussing how brain fog impacts your daily life. Participants will also complete questionnaires about their pain, routines, and overall well-being. This research not only contributes to broader knowledge but also provides an opportunity for veterans to connect and support one another.

Study Details: What to Expect

The study will take about two hours, including a group discussion and completing questionnaires. The study spans six months, with 40 veterans participating. Researchers expect to share the results within a year. This is a unique opportunity to help shape future treatment for brain fog in veterans.

Confidentiality and Privacy Protection

The research team is committed to protecting your privacy. Any audio or video recordings from the sessions will only be used for transcription and will be destroyed once the analysis is complete. Results will be shared anonymously, using pseudonyms to ensure confidentiality.

Compensation for Participation

Veterans who participate will receive a $25 compensation for their time. If you choose to withdraw early, compensation will be adjusted based on your participation time.

Contact Information: Get Involved

Veterans interested in participating can contact the research team via email at dassr5@mcmaster.ca or by phone at 289-600-8610.

Leaving the public safety sector (PSP) is a significant life change for both PSP members and their families. As transition planning becomes more recognized, it highlights the impacts of this change on mental health, identity, relationships, and social connections.

This Families Matter Research Group Interactive Series features a panel discussion with experts, including Dr. Christina Harrington, PhD, RSW, Laura Kloosterman, Executive Director of Badge of Life Canada and Retired OPP Constable (32 years of service), Dean Wilkinson, Retired Paramedic (47 years of service), and Bill Turner, Retired Police Sergeant and Peer Supporter. Together, they will share practical strategies and reflections on managing post-service life with family.

This open event welcomes everyone, but registration is required. The event will gather important information to expand a network that will serve PSP families across Canada.

Afterward, attendees will complete a survey to guide the development of PSP Families Network activities, helping shape future themes, frequency, and formats.

Acknowledging Our Supporters

We thank the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) for their Partnership Development Grant supporting the Families Matter initiative. This event is organized in collaboration with CIPSRT, CIMVHR, and Vanier Institute of the Family, with additional support from the Medavie Foundation.

Register for the May 25, 2023, Webinar

Why Attend This Event?

• Learn from experts: Gain valuable insights from those who have navigated PSP transition firsthand.
• Understand mental health impacts: Discover strategies to manage emotional challenges, relationships, and identity post-service.
• Contribute to shaping future support: Help build a supportive network for PSP families in the future.

Stoicism for First Responders: Building Resilience with Dr. Megan McElheran

Join Dr. Megan McElheran on November 17th at 3 PM PST for an insightful discussion on the power of Stoicism for First Responders in a special online event hosted by The Walled Garden podcast. This conversation will explore how Stoic philosophy can help first responders cope with stress, trauma, and the unique challenges they face.

Why Stoicism is Essential for First Responders

First responders often encounter high-pressure situations and emotional challenges. To manage these demands, Stoicism offers valuable tools. By focusing on what is within one’s control, Stoics can maintain emotional resilience, avoid burnout, and make clearer decisions. Dr. McElheran will delve into how Stoic principles, such as rational thinking and mindfulness, can benefit those working in high-stress environments like law enforcement, fire services, and emergency medical teams.

In this event, you will learn:

• How Stoicism can promote mental resilience in first responders
• The role of mindfulness in managing emotional stress
• Practical Stoic strategies for decision-making and focus under pressure
• How Stoicism helps to prevent burnout and enhance long-term mental health

This event is perfect for first responders, mental health professionals, and anyone looking to learn how ancient wisdom can support today’s heroes. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from Dr. Megan McElheran as she provides actionable strategies for integrating Stoicism into your daily life.

Event Details:

• Date & Time: November 17th at 3 PM PST
• Location: Online Event (Register below)
• Topic: The Power of Stoicism for First Responders
• Hosts: Simon Drew & Dr. Megan McElheran

Register Now: The Power of Stoicism for First Responders

Johnson Management Consulting: Disability/Medical Tax Credit for RCMP, Military, and First Responders

Proud Sponsor of Legacy Place Society

At Johnson Management Consulting (JMC), we specialize in helping RCMP officers, military personnel, and first responders qualify for the disability/medical tax credit. We offer a comprehensive service to ensure you receive the maximum tax refunds possible for your injuries or chronic medical conditions. Here’s how we assist:

• Free Consultation to determine eligibility
• Assessment Report sent to your doctor, explaining why you qualify
• Supporting Documentation and medical history
• Payment for Medical Fees required for filling out forms
• Adjusting Multiple Tax Years on your personal income tax returns to recapture refunds owed

We’ve successfully helped active and non-active RCMP members reclaim this credit, especially due to the nature of their injuries or chronic medical conditions.

Why Choose the Disability/Medical Tax Credit?

While often called the disability tax credit, this credit should actually be referred to as a “medical tax credit” to avoid any negative connotations associated with disability. Since 2005, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has relaxed the qualifying criteria, allowing many people, including RCMP, military, and first responders, to qualify. Unfortunately, many individuals, including accountants and doctors, are unaware of the specific requirements. This is where we come in, offering expert guidance and assistance.

Common Qualifying Conditions:

We’ve helped RCMP officers and other service members qualify for the tax credit due to a variety of medical conditions, such as:

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Hearing loss/tinnitus (from exposure to firearms and sirens)
• Arthritis
• Chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries

Other qualifying conditions include:

• ALS, Amputations, Angina
• Alzheimer’s Disease, Arthritis, Depression/Anxiety
• Chronic pain, Chronic Fatigue, Dementia
• Cancer, COPD, Diabetes
• Fibromyalgia, Knee/Hip replacements
• Macular Degeneration, MS, Parkinson’s Disease
• Sleep Apnea, Strokes, and Spinal Cord Injuries

How Much Can You Receive?

The maximum amount of tax credit we can recapture is ten years. If you have taxable income from a T4 or RCMP pension, you could potentially receive up to $16,000 in a lump sum tax-free.

Beyond this lump sum, once you qualify, you’ll receive an additional $1,850 per year on your annual tax return, increasing your refund every year.

No Age or Work Ability Restrictions

Age and the ability to work are not disqualifying factors for this tax credit. We have helped individuals as young as 12 (through a parent) and as old as 98. This refund is your own money coming back to you to help offset costs for medication, treatment, assistive devices, and therapies.

Important Note: Injury or medical condition does not have to be work-related to qualify.

Experience and Expertise

With a background in accounting and taxation, including experience with H&R Block and corporate forensic audits, I bring a wealth of knowledge to maximize your claims. I also work as a Rehabilitation Consultant for major insurance companies like ICBC, WorkSafe BC, and Manulife, which helps ensure a high success rate in claim acceptance.

Special Discounted Fees for RCMP and Military Personnel

We value the hard work and dedication of RCMP, military, and first responders. As a thank-you, we offer discounted fees:

• Civilian fees are 30% of the refund amount we secure.
• RCMP and Military fees are just 20%, potentially giving you an extra $2,000.

We also offer referral fees for recommending our services to others.

No Upfront Costs, No Risk

There are no upfront costs or risks involved. If we’re unable to secure a refund, you pay nothing. We only get paid when you receive a refund from Revenue Canada.

Contact Us Today

Though based in Kimberley, BC, I travel across different provinces and am available by phone and email. I enjoy meeting clients face-to-face when possible. There is no pressure—just expert assistance.

For a free consultation or to learn more about how we can help you, contact me directly:

• Phone: 250-427-6016
• Email: andersj@shaw.ca

Welcome to the Community Updates section, where we explore how benevolence and legacy contributions can make a lasting impact. At Legacy Place Society, we believe in empowering individuals and communities through thoughtful giving and compassionate support.

Supporting Benevolence in the Workplace

Each Service offers independent resources to address benevolence situations. If you’re part of a Service and wish to initiate support, inquiries should first go through your specific Service.

For scenarios like serious family health concerns where coworkers want to raise funds, please contact us to learn about the application process.

Legacy Gifts: Ensuring a Strong Future

Legacy gifts play a vital role in sustaining the mission of Legacy Place Society for years to come. By including Legacy Place Society in your estate planning, you contribute to ongoing support for first responders, veterans, and their families.

Here are some impactful ways to leave a legacy gift:

1. Gift by Will (Bequest)

A charitable bequest is the simplest and most common planned gift. You can leave:

• A specific asset
• A fixed sum of money
• A percentage of your estate

Benefits:

• Reduce estate taxes significantly.
• Your estate may claim gifts equal to 100% of net income in the year of death and the preceding year.

2. Gift of Securities

Donating publicly traded securities (stocks and mutual funds) eliminates federal capital gains tax, allowing you to maximize your donation and tax benefits.

How to Donate:

1. Visit our CanadaHelps page.
2. Complete the details of your pledge online.
3. Submit a Letter of Authorization to your financial advisor.

CanadaHelps will send you a tax receipt and ensure your donation reaches Legacy Place Society.

3. Gift of RRSPs and RRIFs

Your retirement funds (RRSPs and RRIFs) are heavily taxed, but naming Legacy Place Society as a direct beneficiary offsets taxes and ensures your funds are put to good use.

How it Works:

• Designate Legacy Place Society as a beneficiary on your retirement account.
• Upon passing, your gift is treated as a charitable donation, and a tax receipt is issued for the full amount.

4. Gift of Life Insurance

Life insurance can be a powerful way to make a lasting impact. Options include:

• Donating a paid-up policy.
• Transferring ownership of an active policy to Legacy Place Society and receiving tax receipts for premiums paid.
• Naming Legacy Place Society as the beneficiary of a new or existing policy.

5. Endowments

Endowments are permanent investments where annual income supports education, training, or capital funding for Legacy Place Society.

Requirements:

• Minimum $10,000 contribution over five years.
• Name the endowment after yourself or a loved one to create a personal legacy.

Create a Lasting Impact

Whether through a benevolence initiative or a legacy gift, your support ensures that Legacy Place Society continues to provide vital services, including transitional housing, mental health support, and educational initiatives for first responders and their families.

Contact Us to Learn More:
Email: info@legacyplacesociety.com

Together, we can make a meaningful difference for generations to come.

At Legacy Place Society, our mission is to break down financial barriers to accessing essential mental health services for those who serve our communities.

Our Goal

To provide bursaries and funding for individuals unable to afford the services of qualified mental health professionals.

Mental Health Professionals Defined

• Psychologists
• Psychotherapists with a Master’s or PhD in Psychology or Social Work

Funding Eligibility

The following occupations are eligible for bursaries funding:

• 911, EMS, or Fire Communications Officers (Call Takers/Dispatchers)
• Correctional Officers, including Parole and Probation Officers
• Firefighters
• Military Personnel (Air Force, Army, Navy)
• Paramedics
• Police Officers
• Peace Officers (as defined by the Criminal Code of Canada)

How to Apply

Funding Requests:
Requests must be submitted by a mental health professional in writing and are subject to donor contributions.

Submission Requirements

The request letter must include:

1. Mental Health Professional Information:
   • Full name
   • Contact details
2. Patient Information:
   • Full name
   • Occupation
   • Contact information (for audit purposes)
3. Funding Details:
   • Number of sessions required
   • Amount of funding requested (capped at $500 per person or family)

Note: All cheques will be made payable directly to the mental health professional.

Additional Considerations

Before applying, applicants are encouraged to explore:

• Workplace benefits
• Union benevolence programs
• Personal insurance coverage
• Other agency support such as Wounded Warriors and TEMA

Make a Difference

Your support as a donor can ensure these bursaries remain available to those who need them most. Together, we can help our heroes access the mental health care they deserve.

For inquiries: info@legacyplacesociety.com