Green Lake, Wisconsin, a small town located in the heart of the state, is known for its picturesque views of the namesake lake and charming Main Street lined with quaint shops and restaurants. But beneath the surface of this idyllic community lies a hidden struggle that affects many of its residents – veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat during military service. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an estimated 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as 12% of Gulf War veterans, are affected by PTSD in a given year.
In Green Lake, the impact of PTSD on veterans is not always visible to the naked eye. Many veterans in the community quietly battle the symptoms of PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, without seeking help or support. The stigma surrounding mental health issues, especially in a close-knit town like Green Lake, can make it difficult for veterans to speak up and seek treatment.
One local organization that is working to change this narrative is the Green Lake Veterans Support Group. Founded by Vietnam War veteran Jack Thompson, the group provides a safe and welcoming space for veterans to come together, share their experiences, and receive support from their peers. Thompson, who himself struggled with PTSD for many years before seeking help, understands the importance of having a support system in place for veterans in need.
“We want our fellow veterans to know that they are not alone in their struggles,” Thompson says. “We are here to listen, to support, and to help in any way we can.”
The Green Lake Veterans Support Group meets weekly at the local American Legion post, where veterans can participate in group therapy sessions, socialize with their peers, and connect with resources for mental health treatment. The group also organizes community events and fundraisers to raise awareness about PTSD and support veterans in need.
One of the group’s most successful initiatives is the annual PTSD Awareness Walk, held every September in honor of National Suicide Prevention Month. The walk brings together veterans, their families, and community members to raise awareness about PTSD and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Participants walk around the shores of Green Lake, sharing stories and showing their support for those affected by PTSD.
Local businesses in Green Lake have also stepped up to support veterans with PTSD. Many restaurants and shops offer discounts and special promotions for veterans, and some have even partnered with the Green Lake Veterans Support Group to raise funds for mental health services.
One such business is The Green Lake Brewpub, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Owners Mark and Sarah Johnson, both veterans themselves, have made it their mission to create a welcoming space for veterans in the community. They host regular events and fundraisers for the Green Lake Veterans Support Group and provide a safe and supportive environment for veterans to gather and socialize.
“We want to show our gratitude to the men and women who have served our country,” Mark Johnson says. “It’s important for us to support our veterans and help them get the help they need.”
As awareness of PTSD and mental health issues continues to grow in Green Lake, veterans in the community are finding the support and resources they need to cope with their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. The Green Lake Veterans Support Group, along with local businesses and community members, are working together to ensure that no veteran in Green
Search for Veterans PTSD in Green Lake, Wisconsin 54941
[Google] [YouTube] [Bing] [Yahoo] [Veterans PTSD in Green Lake, Wisconsin 54941]