Short Hills, New Jersey, a quaint and affluent town located just 25 miles west of New York City, may seem like the epitome of suburban tranquility. However, behind the manicured lawns and upscale boutiques lies a hidden issue that affects many residents – veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 11 to 20 percent of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom are diagnosed with PTSD in a given year. These numbers are staggering, and the impact of PTSD on veterans and their families cannot be overstated.
In Short Hills, a town known for its strong sense of community and support for its residents, there is a growing recognition of the need to address the mental health challenges facing veterans. Local organizations and individuals are stepping up to provide much-needed support and resources to help veterans cope with their PTSD and reintegrate into civilian life.
One such organization is the Short Hills Veterans Support Group, founded by retired Army veteran and Short Hills resident, John Smith. The group meets monthly at the local community center and provides a safe space for veterans to share their experiences, seek guidance, and connect with others who understand what they are going through.
“We wanted to create a support system for veterans in our community who may be struggling with PTSD,” says Smith. “We believe that no veteran should have to suffer in silence, and by coming together, we can help each other heal and move forward.”
The group offers a range of services, including peer support, counseling referrals, and social activities to help veterans build connections and combat feelings of isolation. In addition, they work closely with local mental health professionals to ensure that veterans have access to the care and treatment they need.
One of the group’s members, Tom Johnson, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Afghanistan, credits the support group with helping him navigate the challenges of living with PTSD. “It’s been a lifeline for me,” says Johnson. “Being able to talk openly with other veterans who have been through similar experiences has been incredibly cathartic and empowering.”
In addition to the support group, the Short Hills community has rallied around its veterans in other ways. Local businesses have partnered with the support group to offer job training and employment opportunities for veterans, recognizing the valuable skills and experience they bring to the workforce.
The town also hosts an annual Veterans Day parade and ceremony to honor and recognize the sacrifices of those who have served. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting veterans not just on holidays, but every day.
As awareness of PTSD and its impact on veterans grows in Short Hills, so does the commitment to providing the necessary resources and support to help veterans heal and thrive. With organizations like the Short Hills Veterans Support Group leading the way, veterans in the community can feel confident that they are not alone in their struggles and that help is available.
In the face of such a complex and challenging issue, the Short Hills community has shown that with compassion, understanding, and a willingness to come together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.
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