Rewiring the Brain: PTSD and Neuroplasticity with Dr. Brooke Bartlett"

The Things We All Carry

Join Stack and Dr Brooke Bartlett on The Things We All Carry Episode 130 as they uncover the extensive impact of trauma on mental health. Dr. Bartlett, a clinical psychologist expert in trauma, delves into the brain's intricacies, focusing on the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. Learn about post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI), the curative potential of neuroplasticity, and evidence-based treatments. Discussions cover the importance of systematic exposure therapy, addressing mental health thoroughly, and why talk therapy might not be enough for severe cases. This episode also underscores proactive interventions in fire and police departments, and the cumulative nature of trauma. Gain invaluable knowledge and practical advice for navigating the challenges of mental wellness.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:22 Meet the First Responders

00:51 Defining Mental Wealth

02:38 Protecting Mental Wealth

04:47 Host's Personal Reflections

10:40 Episode Overview and Guest Introduction

13:39 Dr. Brooke Bartlett's Background

25:21 Understanding the Brain

32:55 Impact of Trauma on the Brain

37:25 Combat Veteran's PTSD Triggered by Barbecue

38:34 Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Injury

39:35 Brain Scans and PTSD

44:32 Memory Gaps and Trauma

53:15 Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Superpower

01:05:17 Evidence-Based Trauma Therapy

01:15:32 Understanding Internal and External Avoidance

01:15:52 Imaginal Exposures: Facing Trauma Head-On

01:16:51 Recalibrating the Amygdala

01:19:09 The Role of Repetition in Trauma Therapy

01:23:28 Addressing Complex PTSD and Memory Gaps

01:27:44 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Prefrontal Cortex

01:47:02 The Importance of Proactive Mental Health Strategies

01:49:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations