Conrad Weaver has made it his mission in life to tell stories that matter. After graduating with a psychology degree and spending several years as a youth pastor, he realized storytelling was his gift. As he says on his website, “My responsibility in the world is to leave it a better place than when I arrived. If the films I produce can play a role in that, then I’ve been successful.”
Currently, Conrad is working on a documentary called PTSD911, which focuses on first responders and their exposure and experiences with trauma. Today, he’ll tell us about some of the things he’s seen and what the first responder community is doing to address the issue of mental health for their team members.
While many of us don’t have experience as first responders, we’ve likely all experienced trauma. As you listen today, my prayer is that you’ll realize that there’s no shame in asking for help. We’re in this together. Reach out to us at 95Network today if you have questions or want to get connected.
Links to Resources Mentioned or Related
- PTSD911 Documentary
- Heroin’s Grip Documentary
- Conjo Studios Website
- Think Differently Academy (Bob Hamp – Dale’s Counselor)
- Full Strength Network (Counseling for Ministry Leaders)
- Hero On A Mission by Donald Miller
- The End Of Mental Illness by Daniel G. Amen, MD
- Use code PODCAST to get 10% off anything in our store!
- Read Stalled: Hope and Help for Pastors Who Thought They’d Be There By Now
- Watch Podcast on YouTube
Key Takeaways
1) Historically, the response to trauma in the first responder community has been a “suck it up buttercup” mentality. Because of the lack of support for mental health, issues like alcoholism and suicidal thoughts are rampant.
2) Slowly, people are becoming more receptive to talking about trauma. Today, trauma is the number one topic at first responder conferences. Some leaders in the field are starting to take note of mental health issues and address them.
3) Addressing the issue of trauma has to start from the top. It’s vital for leaders to say yes to getting help themselves. They also need training on how to deal with issues within their departments. There’s no shame in getting help.
4) We need to acknowledge that we’re all broken. As John 8:32 says, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” We’re responsible for being honest with ourselves and with others. Honesty brings freedom. Who can you tell today?
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