Doerun, Georgia may seem like your typical small Southern town, with its charming main street and friendly locals, but like many communities across the country, it is also home to a number of veterans who have returned from serving their country with invisible wounds that can be just as debilitating as physical injuries. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects an estimated 11-20% of veterans who have served in recent conflicts, and Doerun is no exception.
One local organization that is working to address the issue of veterans with PTSD is the Doerun Veterans Support Group. Founded by a group of concerned citizens, including several veterans themselves, the group provides a safe space for veterans to come together, share their experiences, and support one another as they navigate the challenges of living with PTSD.
One of the group’s members, John, a Vietnam War veteran, shared his story with me. “When I first returned from Vietnam, I didn’t know what PTSD was. I just knew that I couldn’t sleep, I was jumpy all the time, and I had nightmares that wouldn’t go away. It wasn’t until years later that I finally sought help and was diagnosed with PTSD.”
John’s story is all too common among veterans, who may struggle for years before seeking help for their symptoms. The stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly in the military community, can make it difficult for veterans to ask for help. That’s where organizations like the Doerun Veterans Support Group come in, providing a supportive and understanding environment for veterans to connect with others who have been through similar experiences.
The group meets weekly at the local VFW hall, where veterans can participate in group therapy sessions, socialize, and take part in activities such as fishing trips and barbecues. These activities may seem simple, but they can have a profound impact on veterans with PTSD, providing them with a sense of camaraderie and belonging that is often missing in their lives.
In addition to providing emotional support, the Doerun Veterans Support Group also works to connect veterans with resources and services that can help them manage their PTSD symptoms. This may include counseling, medication, or alternative therapies such as yoga or equine therapy. By taking a holistic approach to treatment, the group aims to support veterans in addressing the root causes of their PTSD and finding healthy ways to cope with their symptoms.
One of the group’s most successful initiatives has been their peer mentoring program, where veterans who have successfully managed their PTSD symptoms are paired with those who are newly diagnosed or struggling. This one-on-one support can be invaluable for veterans who may feel isolated or overwhelmed by their symptoms, providing them with a trusted ally who understands what they are going through.
As awareness of PTSD and its impact on veterans grows, so too does the need for organizations like the Doerun Veterans Support Group. By providing a welcoming and inclusive space for veterans to come together, share their stories, and support one another, the group is helping to break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues in the military community and ensure that veterans in Doerun and beyond get the care and support they need to thrive.
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