The Fire Watch: Supporting Veterans with PTSD and Mental Health Issues
The military is a brotherhood and sisterhood of brave men and women who sacrifice so much to protect our country and our freedoms. But the emotional and psychological toll of their service can be just as devastating as any physical injury. The phrase "Fire Watch" refers to a security measure where a person, or a team of people, is assigned to continuously observe an area or a specific piece of equipment for signs of fire. The fire watch team will work in shifts to ensure that the area is continuously monitored and is responsible for monitoring the area for potential fire hazards, such as sparks or smoke, and for taking immediate action if a fire is detected.
Just like the fire watch team, our veterans have been through battles and have witnessed things that no human should have to go through. They have seen death, destruction, and trauma, leaving deep emotional and psychological scars. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and mental health issues have a profound and devastating impact on our military service members. The symptoms of PTSD can include nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and feelings of guilt, shame, and hopelessness. These symptoms can make it difficult for service members to return to their everyday lives and lead to other mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
The effects of PTSD and other mental health issues on military service members can be devastating. They can lead to lost productivity, broken relationships, and even suicide. The suicide rate among veterans is alarmingly high, and it is a tragic reminder of the emotional and psychological toll of military service. It is a constant reminder that we must do better for our veterans and give them the support and care they need.
We must ensure they have access to the mental health care and support they need and are not stigmatized or discriminated against because of their mental health issues. We must never forget the sacrifices our service members make for our country and always remember that they deserve our gratitude, respect, and support. Like the fire watch team, we must be vigilant in our support for our veterans and be there for them in their time of need.
WHERE TO GET HELP
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline DIAL OR SMS 988
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides resources for veterans, including support for mental health and Black and LGBTQ+ communities.
https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/veterans/
https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/black-mental-health/
https://988lifeline.org/help-yourself/lgbtq/
Veterans Administration
The Veterans Administration offers confidential help and support for veterans in crisis through the Veterans Crisis Line. Call 988 and select 1, or text 838255. Other options include:
- Calling 911.
- Going to the nearest emergency room.
- Visiting your nearest VA medical center.
National Veterans Foundation
The National Veterans Foundation offers confidential support and resources for veterans, including those experiencing suicidal ideation. Call 888-777-4443.
PTSD USA 877-717-7873
PTSD USA provides information and resources for those experiencing PTSD, including resources for veterans.
WHERE TO DONATE
K9s for Warriors
K9s for Warriors provides highly-trained service dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, TBI, and military sexual trauma. Donations to K9s for Warriors can help end veteran suicide.
NATIONAL ALLIANCE TO END VETERAN SUICIDE
The mission of the National Alliance to End Veteran Suicide is to work tirelessly to end veteran suicide in America. The Alliance believes that suicide is preventable and that any life lost to suicide is one too many.
https://www.endveteransuicide.org/donate
VETERANS CRISIS LINE
The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis, their families, and friends with qualified, caring Department of Veterans Affairs responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text-messaging service.
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/GetHelp/Donate
NVF NATIONAL VETERANS FOUNDATION
The National Veterans Foundation (NVF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the crisis management, information, and referral needs of all U.S. Veterans and their families. They provide critically needed resources for our veterans, service members, and their families.