**Special Episode for Military Spouse Appreciation Day**

In a reversal of roles, Eleanor Haack steps down from her usual position as host to become the interviewee in this special episode of Warriors Unmasked. Marking Military Spouse Appreciation Day, Eleanor is joined by a surprise guest host who guides her through an introspective and revealing discussion about the unique challenges and emotional rollercoasters associated with being a military spouse.

Throughout the episode, Eleanor opens up about her mental health struggles, sharing her most challenging moments and personal triumphs. The conversation delves deep into the extreme lows of her journey, highlighting the intense periods of loneliness, anxiety, and the overwhelming pressure of maintaining resilience during her husband’s deployments and their family's frequent relocations.

The episode takes a hopeful turn as Eleanor discusses how she found strength in vulnerability, learning to advocate for herself and seek help when needed. The guest host challenges Eleanor to reflect on pivotal moments where she had to make tough decisions for her well-being and the well-being of her family.

Together, they address the stigma surrounding mental health in the military community, emphasizing the importance of openness and support. They encourage military spouses everywhere to prioritize their mental health, advocate for themselves, and not hesitate to reach out for help.

This special episode not only highlights the often-overlooked struggles of military spouses but also celebrates their unyielding strength and resilience. It serves as a call to action, inspiring listeners to take control of their mental health and support one another in their journeys.

In this episode of Warriors Unmasked, Caitlin Bixby shares her story about her resilient military child, Grayson. Caitlin and her husband are a dual military couple in the United States Navy. Grayson was born prematurely at 29 weeks due to Caitlin's severe pre-eclampsia. He spent 11 months in the NICU, undergoing multiple surgeries and treatments. Caitlin discusses the challenges of being a parent in the NICU, feeling alone and depressed, and the importance of getting connected and seeking support. She also emphasizes that every child is unique and grows at their own pace.

Takeaways

Military children are incredibly resilient, but they are not stronger or more resilient simply because they are part of a military family.

Parents of children in the NICU often feel alone and depressed, especially in the military community, where they may not have family or friends nearby.

Getting connected and seeking support is crucial for parents in the NICU. This can include joining support groups, reaching out to other parents, and utilizing resources provided by hospitals and organizations.

Every child is unique and grows at their own pace. It's important not to compare their development to other children's milestones.

Donating breast milk to a milk bank can make a significant difference for NICU babies who cannot breastfeed.

Building resiliency in military children involves creating a supportive community and providing resources and opportunities for growth and development.


Sound Bites

"Leaving your child in the NICU without bringing them home, your first child especially, it's the worst thing ever."
"Get connected. The biggest way to build resiliency is to get connected."
"Consider donating to a milk bank for NICU babies. Even a few ounces can make a huge difference."

In this emotionally charged episode of Warriors Unmasked, we delve into the poignant journey of Kaitlyn Bixby, an active-duty sailor, as she navigates the harrowing aftermath of losing her veteran brother to suicide. Kaitlyn courageously shares her profound experience of grief, resilience, and the challenges she faced within the VA health system.

As Kaitlyn recounts her brother's battle with mental health issues post-service, listeners gain insight into the often silent struggles faced by our veterans. She opens up about the impact of her brother's death on her own mental health and the ripple effects within her family.

Through raw honesty, Kaitlyn sheds light on the complexities of seeking help within the VA health system. She shares both the moments of support and the frustrating barriers encountered, highlighting the need for continued improvement in mental health care for veterans.

Despite the profound loss she has endured, Kaitlyn's resilience shines through as she shares her journey toward healing. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength within the military community and the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

Warriors Unmasked listeners are sure to be moved by Kaitlyn's courage, inspired by her resilience, and compelled to join the ongoing conversation surrounding mental health support for our veterans.