 People from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds have a rich history of serving in the U.S. military, making the Veteran community wonderfully diverse. As Veterans transition to civilian life, they often face challenges that can impact their mental health. Veterans from minority groups may encounter extra obstacles such as pre-existing trauma, discrimination, or stigma around seeking mental health care.
This month, we encourage you to take proactive steps to support your mental health and the well-being of those in your community.
Start with you
Health and well-being are shaped by our surroundings, our culture, and how we’re treated. Make time for the actions that help you feel calm and connected to yourself, such as:
- Journaling your thoughts and feelings
- Participating in movement you enjoy, like walking, dancing, or gardening
- Enjoying nature
- Spending time with people who understand you
Reach out to others
Connecting to others can make a big difference in how we feel. Reaching out to others can be a form of healing. Find a way to connect to others, such as:
- Asking how someone is really doing
- Sharing a meal with a neighbor
- Laughing with loved ones – play a game or watch a funny movie
- Starting a social group for Veterans
- Connecting with a
Community care starts with showing up, listening, and reminding each other: you don’t have to go through it alone.
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