Having a heart-to-heart conversation with my dear friend Elijah, a retired military veteran and an ardent mental health advocate, is a journey in itself. His haunting experiences, ranging from childhood trauma to the mental battlefield he faced during and after his military service, serve as a poignant reminder of the invisible wounds many carry. With Elijah, we step into a narrative that uncovers the layers of his life, his struggles with trauma-induced mental health issues, and his first premeditated suicide attempt, boldly highlighting the urgent need for mental health advocacy and support.Returning from war, Elijah had new battles to fight. We navigate through his post-war experiences, as he paints vivid images of losing teammates, dealing with a constant cloud of PTSD, and the struggles of returning to a 'normal' life. Our conversation takes a deep dive into societal expectations of masculinity and the complex process of grieving and processing trauma. As we peel back the layers, Eli shares his journey of learning to love again, to build strong relationships amidst the loss, and to navigate through his emotions.This episode is a beacon of hope, for Elijah's story doesn't end with his trauma. Instead, it highlights the power of seeking help, of understanding emotions and of using social media as a tool for healing by connecting with others. Eli's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the strength that comes from facing and accepting one's reality. So, join us for this deeply moving episode, as we together work to break the stigma surrounding mental health, and remember, you're never alone in your journey.Follow Elijah on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elijahwaterbottle/