#048 From Combat to Civilian: Mental Health After the Military | Anthony Dyer

What happens when the mission ends — but the war inside doesn't?In this episode, Ashlea Dillard sits down with Anthony Dyer, a former Air Force combat missions aviator, to explore one of the most underrepresented conversations in military mental health: what it truly costs to serve, and what it takes to heal.Anthony opens up about his firsthand experience with trauma, survivor's guilt, and the identity crisis that so many veterans face when they transition to civilian life. He speaks candidly about his battle with alcoholism, the stigma around seeking help in the military, and how he ultimately found healing through community, purpose, and helping others.Whether you're a veteran navigating the transition out of service, a mental health professional working with military populations, or someone who loves a service member — this episode will meet you where you are.In this episode, you'll hear:Why mental health stigma runs so deep in military culture — and how to push past itThe real impact of survivor's guilt on identity and daily lifeHow prolonged exposure therapy became a turning point in Anthony's recoveryWhy "helping is healing" — and how serving others became his path forwardThe story behind his book Moon Child and the inspiration it offers to others still fighting their own battles"It's okay not to be okay." "Helping is healing." "It's not if, it's when that hits."Anthony's journey is one of raw honesty, hard-won perseverance, and the quiet power of community. This is a conversation that needed to be had.🎧 Listen now — and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.🔗 Link to Anthony's Book Moon Child☎️ Ready to dive into your own work? Schedule your free 30 minute consultation and explore more at ashleadillard.comKeywords: military mental health, veteran trauma, survivor's guilt, Air Force veteran, identity after military service, transition to civilian life, alcoholism recovery, healing and perseverance, veteran community support, Moon Child book Anthony Dyer