#004 Melanie Froemke

We Got Your Six

In this episode of "We Got Your Six," Phillip Naithram engages in a thoughtful conversation with Melanie Froemke, a licensed clinical social worker and yoga instructor. Melanie, a West Point Class of 1999 alumna, shares her journey from the military to becoming a therapist and play specialist. The discussion delves into the impact of trauma, mental health challenges, and the importance of recognizing and addressing issues within the military community.

TRE Tutorials

1. https://youtu.be/eT8042h1Efk?feature=shared
2. https://youtu.be/FeUioDuJjFI?feature=shared

"If we were a friend to ourselves, what would we do? How would we treat ourselves?" - Melanie Froemke,

Major Points:

1. Trauma and Military Experience: Melanie discusses the prevalence of trauma in military life, drawing from her own experiences in the Army and highlighting the need for acknowledging and addressing these challenges.
2. Unseen Effects of Trauma: The conversation explores the often unseen and varied effects of trauma, not only on mental health but also manifesting physically in the body, leading to conditions such as autoimmune diseases and pelvic floor issues.
3. Alcohol Use and Mental Health: The episode touches upon the culture of alcohol within the military and how it can serve as a coping mechanism. Melanie emphasizes the need for self-reflection and recognizing changes in behavior as potential signs of mental health struggles.
4. Yoga and Trauma Release Exercises: Melanie introduces Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) – simple yoga poses and movements designed to induce shaking and release tension in the body, providing a practical tool for individuals dealing with trauma.
5. Importance of Self-Reflection: The episode encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection, notice changes in behavior, and extend support to those who might be struggling with mental health challenges.

"Recognizing signs and symptoms in ourselves, just our mood, having a check-in with ourselves, knowing ourselves, is a really vulnerable act. It's really courageous to do that." - Melanie Froemke,

5 Bullet Point Takeaways:

• Recognizing Signs of Trauma: Understand the signs of trauma, not just in mental health but also through physical manifestations in the body.
• Alcohol and Mental Health: Reflect on the relationship between alcohol use, mental health, and the potential impact on overall well-being.
• TRE for Healing: Explore Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) as a practical and accessible method for releasing tension and trauma from the body.
• Military Culture Shift: Acknowledge the evolving culture within the military, emphasizing the importance of mental health and the need for support systems.
• Self-Care and Reflection: Prioritize self-care, engage in self-reflection, and foster open conversations around mental health within the military community.