Susan Snow | The Other Side of the Gun: The Aftermath of My Father's Murder

Grieving Voices

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In this week's episode, I am honored to host Susan Snow, a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the treacherous waters of trauma and loss.
Susan is an inspiring figure as an author, international speaker, and resiliency coach. Susan bravely opened up about her experience following the tragic death of her father, an LA police detective. Her candid discussion on coping with PTSD before it was widely recognized sheds light on the silent battles many face.
In this raw conversation:

• Susan shares her firsthand experience dealing with PTSD following the violent loss of her father at age 17.
• She discusses how the lack of mental health awareness in the '80s left her struggling alone with grief.
• We delve into how witnessing gun violence impacted Susan, leading to sleep deprivation and suicidal ideation.
• The podcast touches upon how trauma can affect familial relationships, highlighting Susan’s strained dynamic with her mother post-tragedy.
• We learn about Susan's path to resilience: from wearing an "emotional mask" to eventually finding a therapist who understood severe trauma.
• A pivotal moment occurs during our discussion when she recounts watching coverage of the Columbine High School shootings in 1999, which triggered flashbacks — illustrating how PTSD symptoms can persist over time without proper help.

Susan’s tale teaches us something vital: In sharing our stories openly without fear or shame, we permit others to do the same. We foster conversations that might be someone else’s lifeline or inspire them towards help they've been reluctant to seek out themselves.
RESOURCES:

• Book | The Other Side of the Gun: My Journey from Trauma to Resiliency
• YouTube Box Breathing Tutorial for Anxiety

CONNECT:

• Website
• Instagram

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NEED HELP?

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 support via text message. Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a trained Crisis Counselor

If you are struggling with grief due to any of the 40+ losses, free resources are available HERE.
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Support the show

This episode is sponsored by Do Grief Differently™️, my twelve-week, one-on-one, in-person/online program for grievers who have suffered any type of loss to feel better. Click here to learn new tools, grief education, and the only evidence-based method for moving beyond the pain of grief.
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