In this heartfelt episode of A Medic’s Mind, titled “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Acceptance in the Face of Anxiety and PTSD,” Matthew Heneghan opens up about a recent PTSD flashback triggered by a sound that unexpectedly transported him back to his days as a paramedic. This episode explores the unpredictable nature of triggers and the profound impact they can have on mental health, even after years of healing. Matthew shares how he navigated this experience by embracing acceptance—the real, raw kind—not as a quick fix but as a way of acknowledging, "It’s okay to not be okay right now."

Throughout the episode, Matthew breaks down the complexities of PTSD triggers, anxiety, and the emotional toll of trauma, offering listeners a glimpse into his personal struggles and the tools he uses to cope. He reflects on how acceptance isn’t about suppressing emotions or pretending things are fine but about making space for discomfort and learning to sit with it without judgment.

Listeners will hear insights on grounding techniques such as mindful breathing, using sensory cues, and practicing self-compassion to anchor themselves during moments of panic. Matthew also discusses how these moments remind us that healing is not linear and setbacks don’t mean failure. Rather, they are opportunities to practice resilience and reaffirm that "this too shall pass."

This episode is perfect for anyone navigating their own mental health journey, whether you are living with PTSD, anxiety, or simply dealing with life’s ups and downs. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or struggled with intrusive memories, this episode offers a powerful reminder: You are not alone, and it’s okay to stumble. Life is messy, and acceptance means giving yourself permission to be a work-in-progress.

Join Matthew as he shares practical advice, personal reflections, and a message of hope for those who feel lost in the storm. If this episode resonates with you, reach out and connect—because healing happens when we share our stories.

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In this episode, I dive deep into the harsh realities of life as a paramedic—where saving lives comes at a personal cost. With burnout, PTSD, and mental health struggles affecting so many first responders, we ask the hard question: Is becoming a paramedic still worth it?

I explore the emotional highs and lows of the job, share personal insights on how paramedics navigate trauma, and discuss ways to find meaning amidst the chaos. If you’ve ever wondered whether this path is right for you—or if you're already in the field and searching for support—this episode offers real talk, hard truths, and a message of hope.

Tune in for:

• The emotional impact of being on the front lines
• Managing PTSD and mental health as a paramedic
• The importance of brotherhood and support in the field
• How to stay resilient in a high-pressure career

Whether you're considering this career or living it every day, this conversation is for you.

Buy the A Medic's Mind Book: ⁠⁠Here⁠⁠

Buy Woven in War: ⁠Here⁠

Follow Me on Social Media:

⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AuthorMHeneghan⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/amedicsmind⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/theamedicsmindpod/⁠⁠

Email Me: ⁠⁠Info@amedicsmind.com⁠⁠ Website: ⁠⁠www.amedicsmind.com⁠⁠

In this Thanksgiving special, I reflect on a poignant memory from 2004 at Camp Borden, Ontario. Alone in a quiet barracks, sitting at a table with a less-than-ideal holiday meal, I found myself contemplating what 'home' truly meant. Fast forward twenty years, and my sense of home and gratitude has transformed in ways I could never have imagined. Join me as I share this personal story of change, family, and the realization of what it means to find peace and happiness among those we love. Happy Thanksgiving to all. #ThanksgivingSpecial #PodcastReflections #FindingHome #Gratitude #VeteranStories #FamilyAndChange #CampBorden #PodcastLife #HolidayEpisode #Thankful #AmedicsMindPodcast #SheenaAndFamily #StorytellingPodcast

Buy the A Medic's Mind Book: ⁠⁠Here⁠⁠

Buy Woven in War: ⁠Here⁠

Follow Me on Social Media:

⁠⁠https://twitter.com/AuthorMHeneghan⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/amedicsmind⁠⁠

⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/theamedicsmindpod/⁠⁠

Email Me: ⁠⁠Info@amedicsmind.com⁠⁠

Website: ⁠⁠www.amedicsmind.com⁠