Flushing, Ohio, a small town nestled in the rolling hills of Belmont County, may seem like an unlikely place to find veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). But like many communities across the country, Flushing is home to a significant number of veterans who have served in conflicts such as Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan, and who are living with the invisible wounds of war.
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as combat, natural disasters, or sexual assault. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. While not every veteran who has been in combat will develop PTSD, studies have shown that up to 20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan have experienced symptoms of PTSD.
In Flushing, veterans with PTSD face a unique set of challenges. The town, with a population of just over 800 residents, lacks the resources and services that are available in larger cities to support veterans who are struggling with mental health issues. Many veterans in Flushing must travel long distances to access mental health care, and some may be hesitant to seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental illness in small, close-knit communities.
Despite these challenges, there are resources available in Flushing and the surrounding area to support veterans with PTSD. The Belmont County Veterans Service Commission provides assistance to veterans in accessing benefits and services, including mental health care. The local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and American Legion posts also offer support and camaraderie to veterans who may feel isolated or alone in their struggles.
One veteran in Flushing, who asked to remain anonymous, shared his experience of living with PTSD. He served two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned home with nightmares and anxiety that made it difficult for him to hold down a job or maintain relationships. He struggled in silence for years before seeking help from a therapist at the local VA clinic.
“It was hard to admit that I needed help,” the veteran said. “I felt like I was supposed to be tough and just get through it on my own. But talking to someone who understood what I was going through made a world of difference.”
For veterans in Flushing who may be hesitant to seek help, there are also alternative therapies available that have been shown to be effective in treating PTSD. Equine therapy, for example, has been used to help veterans build trust and communication skills, reduce anxiety, and process traumatic experiences. The Rolling Hills Ranch in nearby Bridgeport offers equine therapy programs specifically designed for veterans with PTSD.
In addition to seeking professional help, veterans in Flushing can also benefit from connecting with other veterans who have shared experiences. The VFW and American Legion posts in town host regular meetings and events where veterans can come together to socialize, share stories, and support one another.
As awareness of PTSD and its impact on veterans grows, it is important for communities like Flushing to come together to support those who have served their country. By providing access to mental health care, promoting understanding and empathy, and creating a network of support for veterans with PTSD, Flushing can help its heroes heal and thrive.
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