Memorial day will be here in a few days. This is a time for us to honor all those who have fallen in the line of duty. While I have had several family members serve in multiple branches of the military, I am fortunate enough that none of them paid the ultimate sacrifice. There are many people who have not been as fortunate. So we will take the time to remember and honor those who gave their lives for our freedom.
For many veterans, Memorial Day can trigger post-traumatic stress. Veteran suicide rates are among the highest in our country. It is 1.5x higher than suicide rates for non-military adults. 18 veterans commit suicide every day—EVERY day. It’s incredibly important to recognize that the upcoming holiday can trigger post traumatic stress disorder, along with grief and loss for these men and women.
If you have a veteran in your life, learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of the re-triggering brought about by the holiday. Symptoms include:
- Emotional distress
- Isolation from friends and family
- Increase in alcohol and drug use
- Feelings of guilt, anger, shame, and self-blame
- Mistrust of others, stemming from negative beliefs about the world
- Issues sleeping
- Engaging in high-risk behaviors
If you noticed any of the above behaviors from your loved one, let them know that you are there to support them. It’s impossible for non-military individuals to know what the veterans in your life have been through. You can validate and empathize with their feelings. Let them know you understand that this time may be very difficult for them. Reach out a supporting hand to them. Ask them how you can best support them. A simple way to do this is to use a phrase “I hope your Memorial day is peaceful” rather then “Happy Memorial Day.”
Death by suicide impacts so many areas of our communities. While we prepare to honor those who have fallen during action, let’s also take some time to honor those who have fallen under the burden of mental illness. Those with post traumatic stress disorder, guilt, shame, anxiety, and depression. Let’s commit to learning ways to support veterans in our communities who may very well still be fighting for their lives. While we take time to honor those who have lost their lives—let’s please remember that there are many veterans with us that are fighting a silent battle. They are fighting for their lives under the weight of post traumatic stress disorder. Memorial day is a day when that battle may become even harder.
If you are veteran struggling today, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Hotline is available 24/7/365. 800-273-8255.
For all those who have served or are currently serving–thank you. Thank you for your sacrifices, for your valor, for the things you carry, for protecting us, and for defending our rights. Thank you for sacrificing your physical and mental health for us. Thank you.
To Health, Hope and Healing
Krista
Krista Demuth, MS LPC, CATP is a professional counselor specializing in mental health for children, adolescents, and adults. She is a Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional. She is licensed in Wisconsin and provides service to the St Croix River Valley and surrounding areas.