From Combat to Compassion: The Difference Between PTSD and Moral Injury | CSM Adam Thompson

Step into a deep conversation with Command Sergeant Major Adam Thompson, a highly decorated Green Beret and Commandant of the Senior Enlisted Academy at United States Special Operations Command, as he sits down with Courtney on the Peakality Podcast. In this powerful episode, CSM Thompson shares his personal journey through over 20 years of service, opening up about the realities of combat, the complexities of PTSD, and, most importantly, the lesser-known concept of moral injury. Hear first-hand accounts of split-second decisions on the battlefield, the long-term effects these choices have on the mind and soul, and the steps CSM Thompson has taken to process trauma, build resilience, and lead others—both at home and in uniform. Discover:

• The clear differences between PTSD and moral injury, straight from lived experience.
• CSM Thompson’s strategies for processing trauma—on the battlefield, back home, and throughout life.
• Why seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness, and the resources available for military members, veterans, and families.
• Advice for anyone—military or civilian—dealing with difficult decisions, guilt, or loss.
• Tips for families and loved ones supporting veterans or active duty service members.
• The power of accountability, community, faith, and refilling your “sandbag” after years of hardship.

This episode isn’t just for those in the military—it’s for anyone interested in growth, resilience, mental health, and the realities behind service and sacrifice. If you’re ready for honest stories, practical advice, powerful metaphors, and inspiration to move forward no matter what, hit subscribe and join the conversation! 👇 For more episodes and resources, don’t forget to subscribe to @Peaklity and check out our links below! #PTSD #MoralInjury #MilitaryMentalHealth #Resilience #PeakalityPodcast #GreenBeret #Podcast #VeteranSupport #Leadership #SelfImprovement ________

00:00:00 - Talks about the long-term emotional toll of conflict and compares it to a sandbag that takes wave after wave of damage over the years.

00:02:44 - Explains the difference between PTSD and moral injury—PTSD is about trauma from specific incidents, while moral injury lingers from decisions or events that challenge one’s sense of right and wrong.

00:04:13 - Shares a personal story of moral injury from a mission in 2013, describing the aftermath and how hard it can be to process decisions made under stress.

00:09:42 - Discusses coping strategies, including faith, talking with professionals, and the importance of not dwelling on the past: "Don’t look for life in dead places." 

00:13:31 Command Sergeant Major Adam Thompson: Reflections on how combat experiences shape leadership style, resilience, and the importance of paying attention to teammates’ and families’ well-being.

00:16:57 - Attributes resilience to upbringing, experience, and the accumulation of “scar tissue” over many deployments.

00:19:40 - Advice for moving forward: stay engaged with family and community, set new goals, and be intentional about surrounding yourself with positive influences.

00:23:10 - Describes available mental health resources in the military, emphasizing personal responsibility to seek help before things get worse.

00:26:16 - Addresses the stigma of seeking help—calls the excuses about clearances or careers “total nonsense” and emphasizes accountability.

00:30:33 - Praises civilian efforts to support veterans and highlights the importance of family and community involvement.

00:32:50 - Family members should proactively find mental health resources to support loved ones, rather than just telling them to get help.

00:35:56 - Shares a metaphor: a veteran’s heart and mind are like a sandbag battered by years of conflict—refilling it with faith, family, and goals is essential for healing and growth.