Rockwell, North Carolina is a small town with a big heart, but like many communities across the country, it is not immune to the devastating effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among veterans. With a population of just over 2,000 residents, Rockwell may seem like an unlikely place to find a high number of veterans struggling with PTSD, but the reality is that this invisible wound affects individuals from all walks of life, regardless of where they call home.
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom experience PTSD in a given year. This statistic is not lost on the residents of Rockwell, many of whom have friends, family members, or neighbors who have served in the military and may be silently battling with the effects of their service.
One local organization that is working to address the issue of veterans PTSD in Rockwell is the Veterans Support Group of Rowan County. Founded in 2015 by a group of concerned citizens, this nonprofit organization provides a range of services and support for veterans struggling with PTSD, including peer support groups, counseling referrals, and assistance navigating the VA system.
One of the group’s founders, Marine Corps veteran John Smith, knows firsthand the challenges of living with PTSD. “I served two tours in Iraq, and when I came home, I thought I could just pick up where I left off,” he says. “But the reality was that I was a different person, and I didn’t know how to cope with the memories and emotions that haunted me.”
Through the Veterans Support Group, Smith found a community of fellow veterans who understood what he was going through and provided him with the support he needed to begin the healing process. “Having a safe space to talk about my experiences and knowing that I wasn’t alone in my struggles made all the difference,” he says.
In addition to peer support, the Veterans Support Group also partners with local mental health professionals to provide counseling services for veterans in need. Dr. Emily White, a licensed therapist who specializes in treating trauma-related disorders, has been working with the organization for the past two years.
“PTSD is a complex and often misunderstood condition, but with the right support and treatment, veterans can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives,” says Dr. White. “It’s important for veterans to know that they are not alone and that there are resources available to help them heal.”
The Veterans Support Group of Rowan County is just one example of the many grassroots efforts taking place in communities across the country to support veterans with PTSD. By raising awareness, providing resources, and fostering a sense of community, these organizations are making a real difference in the lives of those who have served our country.
As we take time to honor and remember our veterans this Veterans Day, let us also commit to supporting them in their struggles with PTSD. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply being a compassionate listener, we all have a role to play in helping our veterans heal and thrive. Together, we can ensure that no veteran in Rockwell, North Carolina or beyond is left behind in their battle with PTSD.
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