Sewell, New Jersey, a quiet suburb located in Gloucester County, is home to many veterans who have bravely served our country. Unfortunately, like many veterans across the country, some in Sewell are struggling with a hidden battle – Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event such as combat, natural disasters, or serious accidents. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. For veterans, the trauma they experienced during their service can continue to haunt them long after they return home.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, as well as 12% of Gulf War veterans, are diagnosed with PTSD in a given year. In Sewell, the prevalence of PTSD among veterans is not well-documented, but it is clear that many are struggling with the invisible wounds of war.
One local organization that is working to support veterans with PTSD in Sewell is the Gloucester County Veterans Affairs Office. This office provides a variety of services to veterans, including counseling, support groups, and assistance with navigating the VA system. They understand the unique challenges that veterans with PTSD face and are dedicated to helping them heal and thrive.
In addition to the support provided by organizations like the Gloucester County Veterans Affairs Office, many veterans in Sewell find solace in connecting with other veterans who have shared similar experiences. Peer support groups, such as those offered by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the American Legion, provide a safe space for veterans to share their stories, offer each other support, and build a sense of camaraderie.
One veteran in Sewell, who wished to remain anonymous, shared his experience with PTSD and how he has found healing through connecting with other veterans. He served two tours in Iraq and Afghanistan and returned home with severe PTSD. For years, he struggled in silence, feeling isolated and misunderstood. It wasn’t until he attended a support group at the VFW that he realized he was not alone.
“Being able to talk openly with other veterans who understand what I’ve been through has been life-changing,” he said. “I no longer feel like I have to carry this burden alone. I have a community of brothers and sisters who have my back.”
While the road to healing from PTSD is not easy, it is important for veterans in Sewell and beyond to know that help is available. Seeking support from mental health professionals, connecting with other veterans, and engaging in self-care practices such as exercise, mindfulness, and creative expression can all contribute to healing from PTSD.
As a community, it is crucial that we continue to raise awareness about PTSD and support our veterans in their journey towards recovery. By listening to their stories, offering a helping hand, and showing compassion and understanding, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for our veterans in Sewell and beyond. Together, we can help our veterans heal from the invisible wounds of war and honor their sacrifices with the care and respect they deserve.
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