By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Samantha Horwitz and Dave Salerno

Imagine being pushed to the breaking point, day in and day out, with no respite from the traumas you’ve experienced. For first responders and veterans, this is a harsh reality. The constant exposure to stressful and traumatic situations can take a toll on their mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. This is the problem that the Unbroken program at The Meadows aims to address.

The Unbroken Program

The Unbroken program is a specialized approach to treating trauma in first responders and veterans. According to Andrea Keith, a licensed professional counselor supervisor at The Meadows, ‘we specialize in trauma and we are world-renowned for trauma.’ The program uses a range of techniques, including EMDR and psych armor training, to help individuals process and cope with their traumatic experiences.

As Caitlin Pena, a therapist at The Meadows, notes, ‘it’s really important to us that we are culturally competent, that we are trained… and that we are experts in trauma.’ This expertise is crucial in helping first responders and veterans feel comfortable opening up about their experiences and seeking help.

The Importance of Support

Support is a critical component of the Unbroken program. As Sam Horwitz and David Solerno emphasize, ‘we need family support. That is the big gaping hole.’ The program recognizes that the families of first responders and veterans are also affected by the traumas their loved ones experience. By providing support for these families, the Unbroken program aims to create a comprehensive approach to healing.

As John, a guest on the show, notes, ‘99% of them want to serve that oath with honor, but the politicians and the city aren’t letting them because they’re not giving them the tools they need.’ This sentiment highlights the importance of supporting first responders and veterans, not just as individuals but also as a community.

Closing Thoughts

The Unbroken program at The Meadows offers a beacon of hope for first responders and veterans struggling with trauma. By providing a safe and supportive environment, the program helps individuals process their experiences and develop coping strategies. As the hosts and guests on A Badge of Honor TV emphasize, supporting these individuals and their families is crucial to their well-being and our community’s safety. The full episode of A Badge of Honor TV is available on OBBM Network TV.

Watch A Badge of Honor TV on OBBM Network TV: https://media.obbmnetwork.tv/embed/tv.html#series/a-badge-of-honor-tv