June 26, 2024

Dr. Rita Brock—Breaking the Chains of Moral Injury | S4 E26

In this info-packed episode, we dive deep into the world of moral injury with the brilliant Dr. Rita Brock, Director of the Volunteers of America Shay Moral Injury Center. Her program extends its life-saving support to first responders, healthcare providers, social workers, and others facing the harrowing effects of moral distress.

Join us as we unravel the complex tapestry of moral injury versus Post Traumatic Stress. Picture a paramedic torn apart by the impossible choices of a pandemic, or a police officer haunted by actions that clash with their moral compass. The imagery is stark, the reality heart-wrenching. Tune in for a raw, eye-opening discussion that offers hope and practical tools for healing.

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Responder Resilience

In this info-packed episode, we dive deep into moral injury with the brilliant Dr. Rita Brock, Director of the Volunteers of America Shay Moral Injury Center. Dr. Brock is a pioneer in the field, having developed the Resilience Strength Training (ReST) Program—a game-changer for U.S. military veterans grappling with moral injury. But her work doesn't stop there. The program now extends its life-saving support to first responders, healthcare providers, social workers, and others facing the harrowing effects of moral distress.

Dr. Brock breaks down the nuances and lays bare the often-overlooked emotional scars of moral distress. What exactly causes this distress? What does it look like in real life? Picture a paramedic torn apart by the impossible choices of a pandemic, or a police officer haunted by actions that clash with their moral compass. The imagery is stark, the reality heart-wrenching.

More importantly, we explore the path forward. Dr. Brock shares actionable insights on addressing moral distress and injury. How do we move past the pain? How do we build resilience in the face of soul-crushing experiences? This episode is not just a conversation; it’s a lifeline. Tune in for a raw, eye-opening discussion that offers hope and practical tools for healing. Be ready to be inspired by real-life stories of courage and recovery. Hear about the veterans and frontline workers who have found solace and strength through the Resilience Strength Training Program. Their journeys highlight the transformative power of support and the human capacity for healing, even in the face of profound suffering.

Finally, we look forward to the future of moral injury research and treatment. Dr. Brock shares her vision for expanding the reach of programs like ReST and the ongoing efforts to integrate these practices into various sectors. The goal is clear: to ensure that no one has to endure the silence and isolation of moral distress alone.

Whether you're a responder, a veteran, a healthcare provider, a social worker, or simply someone interested in the human condition, this episode offers profound insights and practical advice. It’s a beacon of hope, a guide to resilience, and a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.



Contact Dr. Rita Brock:
Facebook: @VOL_of_America
LinkedIn:  Rita Nakashima Brock
On Socials: @VOL_of_America

 

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
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Rita Brock Profile Photo

Rita Brock

Director of the Volunteers of America Shay Moral Injury Center

Dr. Brock is the Director of the Volunteers of America Shay Moral Injury Center.

She developed the Resilience Strength Training (ReST) Program to help U.S. military veterans to cope with moral injury. The evidence based program now supports health care providers, social workers and others experiencing moral distress and injury.

The latest iteration of the program is VOA|ReST4FirstResponders : a national campaign and free, peer and confidential support service to help fire, police, EMTs and ER staff process experiences of moral distress, build and maintain resilience, and remain committed to their work.

Brock is the first Asian American woman to earn a doctorate in theology, is the author of a few books and many essays.