In this episode of Hope Illuminated, I am joined by Major General Greg Martin of the US Army, who bravely shares his journey with bipolar disorder. From experiencing the exhilarating highs that fueled his success in the military, academia, and marathon running, to facing the devastating lows that nearly destroyed him, Greg offers a compelling narrative about the complexities of mental health. Our discussion highlights the human side of leadership, revealing how mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of rank or achievement.

Greg delves into the critical role of lived experiences in shaping our understanding of mental health. He shares how his bipolar disorder, initially undiagnosed, enhanced his performance in high-stakes environments but also led to severe depression and manic episodes. By reflecting on his personal battles and eventual recovery, Greg emphasizes the importance of tailored support systems and the need to combat stigma within military and civilian communities alike.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how mental health intersects with professional excellence and personal well-being. Greg's story underscores the necessity of empathy, resilience, and comprehensive mental health care, offering hope and guidance for those facing similar challenges. This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the transformative power of support and understanding.

More about Gregg Martin

Maj. Gen. Gregg F. Martin, PhD, USA (Ret.), served on active duty for thirty-six years and commanded an engineer company, battalion, and the 130th Engineer Brigade in combat during the first year of the Iraq War. General Martin served multiple overseas tours, commanded the Corps of Engineers Northwest Division, was Commandant of the Army Engineer School, commanded Fort Leonard Wood, was Deputy Commanding General of Third U.S. Army/Army Central in the Middle East, Commandant of the Army War College, President of the National Defense University, and Special Assistant to the Chief of Engineers. Martin holds a PhD and two master's degrees from MIT, master's degrees in national security strategy from both the Army and Naval war colleges and a bachelor's degree from West Point (class of 1979).

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