In the conclusion of our conversation with Sergeant Aaron Quinonez (Sgt. Q), we learn about his long road towards getting diagnosed with PTSD and his advice for anyone dealing with a mental health crisis. Additionally, Sgt. Q shares his insights on how the faith-based community can better support those struggling with mental health issues. Also, we ask Sgt. Q for his list of things NOT to do when going through a hard time.

On Sgt. Q’s list are several important points that we stress consistently on our show. He talks about how isolation can be deadly. If you recognize that someone you care about is going through a hard time, now is the time to reach out.  The negative effect drugs and alcohol have on our mental health are also a big NO. Substances inhibit our impulse control and often make us feel more depressed. Alcohol specifically is a known depressant. It is widely available and often used/abused to “numb out” symptoms of PTSD, which in turn can create a whole host of other problems. Panic attacks are often a symptom of PTSD. To learn more about the relationship between panic attacks and mental health, check out this week’s blog, “Don’t Hit the Panic Button.”

For more on PTSD and its relationship to suicidal thoughts, check out our episodes on the subject. “PTSD and Suicide, Part I” and “PTSD and Suicide, Part II.”