Onward Ops’ Post

Supporting Our Veterans: A Personal Reflection Today, I want to share a story that’s deeply personal and serves as a reminder of the unseen battles many veterans face long after their service ends. A few days ago, an old friend from my first combat tour reached out me. We hadn't spoken in almost 20 years. He confided in me about his struggles with addiction, mental health, and the challenges of civilian life. His bravery in reaching out reminded me of the bond we share as combat vets and the importance of supporting one another. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned from this experience: 💪 Courage Comes in Many Forms: It took immense courage for my friend to reach out and share his struggles. This reminded me that seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. 🧠 The Importance of Mental Health: Our conversation highlighted the critical need for mental health support among veterans. Many struggle in silence, and it’s crucial to provide accessible resources and support. 🤝 Support Networks Matter: Being there for one another can make all the difference. Whether it’s a simple check-in message or helping find professional support, small actions can have a big impact. 📚 Training and Education: Just as we trained in the military to face physical challenges, we must also educate ourselves and others on the importance of mental health and well-being. Continuous learning and awareness can help us support those in need. Let’s remember to reach out to our fellow veterans and offer a hand, a listening ear, or a guiding word. Our collective support can help bridge the gap between the battlefield and a fulfilling civilian life. #VeteranSupport #MentalHealth #LifeLessons #Training #Education #SupportOurTroops #Veterans #VeteransMentalHealth #VeteransHelpingVeterans #ADHD #AddictionRecovery #CombatVeterans #PTSAwareness #SupportEachOther

“Veterans court helps with services” The Star Democrat We are grateful for a warm reception to our request for a letter of support for standing up a Veterans Treatment Court in District 3 serving Cecil, Caroline, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot Counties. The Talbot County letter of support represents the fourth of the five counties we have requested letters of support from. Deputy Director Lei Ellingson of the Queen Anne’s Veterans and Military Alliance (“VAMSA”) and Commander Chad Baker of the Delmarva Military Order of the Purple Heart made a brief presentation to the Talbot County Board of Commissioners. What is a Veteran's Treatment Court? Veterans' courts provide services to those who served in the military and suffer from conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, other mental health issues and/or substance use disorders. Veterans can resolve criminal and traffic offenses, obtain the treatment and services they need and stabilize their lives. A veterans court connects eligible participants to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs benefits, long-term supportive housing and other benefits for participants whose service-related disabilities prevent their return to the workforce. The veterans court can access local resources where the veteran does not qualify for benefits. This proposition is supported by many legislators, county administrators and local veteran service organizations that recognize the maximum benefit yield direct impact for the five county's approximate 17,000 veterans. And there is a correlation of direct reduction of veteran suicide ideation as well. Catch them before "they fall through the cracks." We welcome letters of support if you would like to offer your support for this invaluable initiative to get our armed services personnel lives back. Our email: hunter10611@gmail.com or executive.director@vamsa.us After all, who would deny differential justice to a veteran provided their offense does not rise above a misdemeanor? JOSHUA MARKS” https://lnkd.in/eu3_r2AG

Successfully navigating the complexities of VA compensation claims for non-PTSD mental health conditions is sometimes more difficult due to the relaxed standards for PTSD. Stressful events in service don't always result in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders can also be caused by trauma. The accredited attorneys at Lowry Veterans Law understand the complexities of mental health claims and can formulate a strategy to win service connections: ⚖️Specialized Expertise: Understanding the nuances between mental health conditions and their relation to military service is paramount. The team at Lowry Veterans Law Ltd. is well-versed in this domain, ensuring your case has a strong foundation. ⚖️Tailored Advocacy: Each veteran's experience is unique. The attorneys at Lowry Veterans Law Ltd. delve into the specifics of each case, gathering all relevant evidence and testimonies to present the most compelling claim possible. ⚖️Proven Track Record: With a history of successfully representing veterans in their compensation claims, the team at Lowry Veterans Law Ltd. knows the ins and outs of the VA system. Their expertise can differentiate between an unsuccessful claim and the justice and compensation you deserve. #ptsd #posttraumaticstreedisorder #mentalhealth #veterans #military #vacompensation #vacompensationattorney

🇺🇸 The Military Vererans Peer Texas: A Lifeline for Those Who Served The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging for many veterans. The Military Veterans Peer Network (MVPN) is a crucial resource designed to support veterans through this transition by providing a community of peers who understand their unique experiences and challenges. 🇺🇸 What is the Military Veterans Peer Network? The MVPN is a statewide program that connects veterans with trained peer mentors. These mentors are often veterans themselves, offering a unique perspective and understanding that can be invaluable to those they support. The network aims to provide emotional support, resources, and a sense of community to veterans and their families. 🇺🇸 Key Services and Support 1. Peer Support Groups: Regular meetings where veterans can share their experiences and challenges in a safe, supportive environment. 2. One-on-One Mentoring: Personalized support from trained peer mentors who can offer guidance and assistance tailored to individual needs. 3. Resource Connection: Assistance in navigating and accessing various resources, including healthcare, employment, and housing services. 4. Crisis Intervention: Immediate support for veterans in crisis, including connections to mental health services and emergency assistance. 🇺🇸 The Impact of Peer Support Peer support has been shown to significantly improve mental health outcomes for veterans. By connecting with others who have shared similar experiences, veterans can reduce feelings of isolation, build resilience, and develop coping strategies. The MVPN helps veterans feel understood and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and community. 🇺🇸 How to Get Involved Veterans and their families can get involved with the MVPN by attending local peer support groups, reaching out for one-on-one mentoring, or volunteering as a peer mentor. The network also collaborates with various organizations to provide comprehensive support and resources. 🇺🇸 Conclusion The Military Veterans Peer Network is more than just a support system; it's a community where veterans can find understanding, camaraderie, and the resources they need to thrive in civilian life. By leveraging the power of peer support, the MVPN plays a vital role in helping veterans navigate the complexities of life after service. For more information or to get involved, veterans can visit the MVPN website or contact their local veterans' service office. #veterans #VFW #volunteering #ptsd #Warriors #bethechange #22aday #forveterans

The VA understands the impact Military Sexual Trauma (MST) can have on a veteran’s mental and physical health. To support those affected, they've implemented a comprehensive screening process. This blog covers VA MST screening questions, MST support and resources, and how the VA rates MST. Read more by clicking the link in our comments! #Militarytrauma #PTSD #Militarysexualtrauma #survivor #VAclaims #VAsupport #Veteransupport #Veteranresources

Preventing Substance Use Disorders Among Military Youth Overview The 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health revealed that 1.2 million adolescents aged 12-17 were reported to have a substance use disorder (SUD). We must consider this concerning number as we look to support the children of those who served or are serving in the military. The Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC) reports that there are almost 2 million children of service members on active duty in the National Guard and Reserves. Additionally, it is estimated that 2 million youth have parents who are post-9/11 Veterans. These children have added stressors due to the service requirements of their parents or caretakers that put them more at risk. This learning community will focus on the behavioral health needs of military-affiliated children, underscore the importance of understanding risk and protective factors, illustrate ways to offer support through community efforts, and provide tools and resources to navigate the myriad of supports available. This learning community will provide participants with an opportunity to learn with a small group in an interactive setting.

Day 14 of #31DaysOfSocialWork Military social work plays a crucial role in supporting our service members and veterans. From addressing mental health challenges to assisting with transition to civilian life, these dedicated professionals provide invaluable support. Let's take a moment to recognize and appreciate their vital contributions to the well-being of those who have served our country. 🌟 Military social workers offer essential support to service members and veterans, addressing a wide range of needs and challenges they may face during and after their service. 🌟 They provide mental health services, including counseling and therapy, to help individuals navigate the unique stressors and traumas associated with military life. 🌟 Social workers assist with the transition from military to civilian life, offering guidance on employment, housing, and accessing benefits and resources. 🌟 They play a key role in addressing issues such as PTSD, substance abuse, and family dynamics, helping veterans and their loved ones cope and thrive. 🌟 Their dedication and expertise make a significant impact on the well-being and quality of life of those who have served our country, embodying the spirit of support and service. #31DaysOfSocialWork #MilitarySocialWork #VeteransSupport 🇺🇸

#veterancaregiver #reducethestigma #milspousesupport #veteranspouse #militarytocivilian Reference: Easom, L. R., Wang, K., Moore, R.H., Wang, H., & Bauer, L. (2018). Operation family caregiver: Problem-solving training for military caregivers in a community setting. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 74(1), 536-553. https://lnkd.in/erg_nGUU Gerlock, A. A., Grimesey, J., & Sayre, G. (2014). Military-related posttraumatic stress disorder and intimate relationship behaviours: A developing dyadic relationship model. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 40(3), 344-356. https://lnkd.in/g6jMgZfH Disclaimer: The information on this platform is for educational and general purposes only. It is not personalized health information and may not be suitable for your unique situation.

Attorneys can turn around denied VA claims, especially for PTSD, by establishing a service connection. Learn how legal expertise makes a difference. #Veterans #PTSD #LegalHelp Listen to the full episode by clicking here https://pbp.li/vova34.

Attorneys can turn around denied VA claims, especially for PTSD, by establishing a service connection. Learn how legal expertise makes a difference. #Veterans #PTSD #LegalHelp Listen to the full episode by clicking here https://pbp.li/vova34.