From Attempted Suicides To Saving Lives: Douglas Brinker's Mission of Hope

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Today, I sit down with fellow shipmate Douglas Brinker, a U.S. Navy veteran, mental health director for the Michigan Department of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, and founder of Beacon 4 Hope LLC. 

Mr. Brinker shares his incredible journey from serving as a Boatswain’s Mate aboard the USS Mullinnix and the USS Dewert to becoming a two-time suicide attempt survivor and national suicide prevention advocate.

We talk about the rough seas—both literal and emotional—he navigated in the Navy, from dangerous Atlantic crossings to struggles with identity and trauma after leaving the service. Mr. Brinker opens up about what led to his suicide attempts in 1999 and 2001, the critical support that saved his life, and the lifelong mission he’s been on since: to be a voice of hope for veterans and civilians alike.

Mr. Brinker also discusses his upcoming book, structured in 22 chapters to represent the 22 veterans lost to suicide each day. He reflects on the importance of reaching out, removing the stigma around mental health, and having the courage to ask for help.

Along the way, however, we also share some humorous stories from port calls to life on the ship!

Beacon 4 Hope LLC: https://douglasbrinker.com/

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*Couple O' Nukes LLC and Mr. Whiskey are not licensed medical entities, nor do they take responsibility for any advice or information put forth by guests. Take all advice at your own risk.