Episode 20: War vet, former first-responder Ryan Mains on PTSDEpisode 20: War vet, former first-responder Ryan Mains on PTSD
40,000 Steps Radio
Ryan Mains, a war vet and ex-firefighter, shares his journey with PTSD and recovery on '40,000 Steps Radio'.
56:35•25 May 2021
Ryan Mains: From Battlefield to Healing Fields
“"It's okay to not be okay." - Ryan Mains”
Ever wondered how a war veteran and firefighter copes with the scars of PTSD? In this episode of '40,000 Steps Radio', host Christopher Heimerman sits down with Ryan Mains, an Iraq War veteran and former firefighter, who shares his raw and real journey through the labyrinth of PTSD. Mains opens up about his struggle with PTSD that led to his disability pension case and how it forced him out of a 14-year career as a firefighter.
He also recounts the emotional and physical challenges he faced during the 'Run for Our Lives' event, a 115-kilometer run to honor firefighters who took their own lives in 2020. Despite only completing 95 kilometers due to extreme heat and humidity, Mains' decision to stop was a powerful message in itself: it's okay to not be okay.
Through candid conversations, Mains highlights the importance of seeking help, discussing mental health openly, and finding personal coping mechanisms like therapy, ketamine treatments, and running. This episode is a poignant reminder that admitting vulnerability can be a profound strength. Tune in to hear Ryan's story and gain insights into the complexities of PTSD and recovery.
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