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David Carlson served two tours in Iraq, in ’04 and ’07, as an infantryman with the Army National Guard. His re-integration back into the community after his second tour presented many punishing challenges. Unbeknownst to him, his participation in combat exacerbated his underlying struggles in his childhood, presenting after Iraq in the form of addiction, depression, hyper vigilance, suicidal ideation, reoccurring nightmares, and flashbacks. David’s maladaptive coping resulted in his incarceration for just under 5 years in Wisconsin jails and prisons. Since his release from prison, David built on the fitness he used while incarcerated to manage anxiety and anger, as a tool to reach other veterans who were having similar experiences. This led into David becoming involved in multiple forms of advocacy work, and not just for veterans, but for many people struggling with the demons of their past. David graduated with honors with his BA in English from the University of Wisconsin—Eau Claire. He is the founder of C.C. We Adapt  www.ccweadapt.com  and is now in his first year of Law School. David’s greatest pride in life are his two sons, Knox and Lenox, and his wife Alicia– 

DISCLAIMER: The information and content shared in each episode of the Stigma Free Vet Zone are for informational purposes only. The Stigma Free Vet Zone hosts, Mike Orban, Bob Bach and Erin Schraufnagel are not, nor claim to be, medical doctors, psychologists, or psychiatrists and should not be held responsible for any claims, medical advice, or therapy/treatment recommendations mentioned on this podcast. Any advice mentioned or shared by Mike Orban, Bob Bach, Erin Schraufnagel or their guests is strictly for purposes of bringing awareness to the veteran community and the services available. Please speak with a medical professional before taking any advice or starting any therapy or treatment discussed or shared on this podcast.