NAMI North Texas’ Post

A Season of Gratitude begins Veterans Day marks the beginning of a season dedicated to gratitude and sacrifice, a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives made possible by the selfless actions of others. This national day of remembrance, observed on the anniversary of World War I’s end, pays tribute to veterans and the victims of war. A pause to honor their sacrificial love. While Americans overwhelmingly hold veterans in high esteem, it’s worth noting that the number of individuals with military experience within the U.S. population has declined. This trend is also reflected in the diminishing number of Congress members with military backgrounds. Florida stands out as a leader in veterans per capita, boasting 21 military bases within its borders, making it easy to recognize the significant veteran presence in the state. Across the nation, most states celebrate Veterans Day with parades, with New York hosting the largest of them all. As the confetti settles and the parades conclude, it is my hope that our admiration for veterans will translate into meaningful actions that enhance their lives. There are countless opportunities to positively impact the lives of veterans each day. It’s sobering to acknowledge that twenty percent of homeless individuals are veterans, and twenty-seven percent of veterans are living with disabilities. Additionally, the Labor Department reports that 2.9% of veterans are unemployed. In these circumstances, even small gestures of support can have a profound and lasting impact, as the VA news wisely reminds us, “a small gesture goes a long way.” #veteransday #holiday #gratitude #wednesdaywisdom elainemariefineart.com

On Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who have served in the armed forces, acknowledging their sacrifice, dedication, and resilience. While celebrating their contributions, it's crucial to reflect on the negative aspects of war. Wars bring profound human and societal costs, leaving lasting scars on individuals and communities. The toll of conflict extends beyond the battlefield, affecting mental health, families, and economies. Veterans often grapple with the invisible wounds of war, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), underscoring the need for increased support and resources for mental health. As we express gratitude to veterans, let us also advocate for peaceful resolutions, invest in mental health support, and work towards a world where the courage of our military men and women is not tested in the crucible of war. Veterans Day should serve as a poignant reminder of the imperative to pursue lasting peace and unity. #thankyouveterans #veteransday

🌟 Celebrating Veterans Day with a Promise of Support and Unity 🌟 Today, on Veterans Day, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and camaraderie of our veterans. In the military, the strength of peer relationships is paramount. Battle buddies, teammates, brothers, and sisters in arms stand shoulder to shoulder, forming bonds that endure through the toughest challenges. As many of our veterans face hardships like mental health and substance use disorders, the power of these peer relationships becomes even more vital. We understand that peer support is not just a concept—it's a lifeline. That's why we are committed to leveraging these bonds to assist veterans in their journey towards recovery. 🔹 From substance use disorders to mental health issues, our peer-to-peer support services are here to guide you. 🔹 We offer a safe space, a listening ear, and a helping hand—all at no cost. 🔹 Your service to our nation is invaluable, and our support for you is unwavering. This Veterans Day, let's renew our promise to stand by our veterans. Your battles do not end when you leave the battlefield, and neither does our commitment to you. Reach out to us. Together, we can navigate the path to recovery and well-being. Because in our eyes, every day is a day to honor and support our veterans. 844-KRZ-PEER (579-7337) Info@kimmiesrecoveryzone.org #VeteransDay #PeerSupport #MilitaryBrotherhood #FreeVeteransServices #MentalHealthAwareness #SubstanceUseSupport #HonorThroughAction #recoveryisforeveryone #SWFLStrong

🇺🇲 Happy Memorial Day? I am a veteran. Sometimes, people thank me for my service, but I never need to hear that. If you didn't know, Memorial Day is a day for remembering—recognizing the brave and valiant people who sacrificed their lives for American freedom. I am humbled and grateful. I am also horrified by the disgrace and reality that so many veterans experience. Nearly 7,000 men and women gave their lives in military service from 2001 to 2021. Almost 100,000 veterans have died by suicide during those 20 years. In 2023, over 35,000 veterans were without a home. This is trending upward. The Department of Defense reports that somewhere between 20,000 to 30,000 service members are sexually assaulted annually, also on an upward trend. Veterans have a higher risk of food insecurity. Veteran women have a much higher risk, with one study showing nearly 30% as “food insufficient.” Happy Memorial Day! If it’s your privilege and pleasure, enjoy good food, good times, and the loving company of family, friends, and community. Thanks to the more than half a million people who have died in service of our freedom since the founding of the United States. If you want to thank a veteran for their service, you might also ask yourself how you can join the fight for freedom from the daily suffering and indignity many veterans experience. #MemorialDay #HonorOurHeroes #StandBesideThem #RememberAndHonor

As Ronald Reagan famously said, ‘Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.’ So, as we honor our veterans on this special national holiday, let’s take a moment to reflect – and deeply appreciate all that they have done to protect our precious freedom. Across the United States, there are roughly 19 million Americans who have served our country. And of those 19 million, over 4 million have service-related disabilities. Both are staggering numbers that put the cost of our freedom into perspective. This weekend we are once again moved to do our civic duty and honor our veterans on Veterans Day. Unlike other national holidays like the 4th of July that provide more of a celebratory atmosphere, Veterans Day is a holiday that’s solemn and more humbling. It’s also a day that I believe demands reflection, about the courage and selflessness of those Americans who have put their lives at risk to defend what we hold dear. Interestingly enough, Veterans Day is deliberately spelled the way it is, as opposed to Veteran’s Day, because the day is not meant to belong to veterans, but instead honor them, as declared by the Department of Veterans Affairs. This deliberate spelling is meant to call upon everyone of us to honor the sacrifices of each veteran and the more than one million Americans who have given their lives for this country. Many soldiers and veterans don't see themselves as being brave or special, but instead as simply doing their duty. Yet, especially in today’s military, it’s important to remember as well that the majority of individuals who signed up to serve our nation have done so voluntarily. It’s this resolve and commitment to our nation that continues to give each of us something to continually aspire to, as well as be grateful for. As we recognize Veterans Day this year, it’s important to remember that the United States still stands as the beacon of hope and freedom around the world, and we owe our precious stature due to the selfless service of our veterans.

Philosophical musings after some morning reflection practice... A veteran, a lone rock standing firm, constantly battered by waves. Over time, it's not worn down; instead, it's sculpted into a form of resilience and beauty. As military members transitioning to civilian life, we often face the relentless waves of change and uncertainty. It's like standing in the midst of a storm, where every wave feels like a challenge to our identity. Without the uniform, "Who am I?" Like the rock, we are shaped by the experiences we endure. Each challenge, each wave, is an opportunity to be sculpted into the form we are meant to take. It's a journey of realizing that we are not diminished by the trials we face, but rather, we are defined by how we respond to them. Transitioning from military to civilian life is a profound change. It's common to feel like an imposter and it is natural to miss the familiarity of the military. The waves may keep coming, but like the rock, you have the strength and resilience to be shaped into something even more remarkable. Always remember, in this community, you are not alone. We are all impacted by the waves of change. 💯 #MilitaryTransition #Resilience #StoicWisdom #VeteransHelpingVeterans

May this Veterans Day be a day of gratitude, reflection, and change! We deeply recognize and honor the sacrifices made by veterans. It’s important that we reflect on the impact military service has on people who have served; service leaves many people with a higher risk of mental health issues, which they deserve support to navigate. It’s crucial that we work towards more care, compassion, and resources to be made available to people bearing the burdens of combat and its aftermath. Tell us, how do you approach your work with veterans?

Are you experiencing healthy or unhealthy loneliness through your transition out of active-duty military life? Richelle Futch, LICSW shares more about the "mirror conversation" and the question you should be asking yourself. Loneliness is so detrimental that experts say it shortens your life span by 15 years. It's questions like this that are behind MilSpouseTransition.com - built specifically for transitioning military spouses searching for answers to feelings, experiences, and fears. You can jump on the email list now for updates on the website launch, resources, lives, articles, and more. If you missed this live you can catch the full replay from my profile. Let's keep the conversation going.

🌟 Embrace Possibility 🌟 "Nothing is impossible. The word itself says I'M POSSIBLE." At Defenders of Resilience LLC, we believe in the boundless potential within each of us, especially within the military community and among those navigating mental health challenges. 💪 For service members, military spouses, veterans, and all individuals striving for greatness, let these words serve as a reminder of your unlimited capabilities. What may seem insurmountable at first glance becomes achievable when approached with determination and belief in oneself. 🌟 By embracing the mindset that "I'M POSSIBLE," we unlock the doors to endless possibilities. With resilience as our guide and courage as our companion, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve our most ambitious dreams. 🌱 Today, let's banish doubt and embrace possibility. Together, let's write our own stories of triumph, proving that with unwavering determination, nothing is beyond our reach. 💖 #DefendersOfResilience #MentalHealth #MilitaryStrong

From Brother Roo…🙏🏼😔🫡🫡🫡🫡🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🫵 We veterans do take this very seriously: Here's some ground rules for this weekend: 1. Don't wish me a Happy Memorial Day! There is nothing happy about brave men and women dying. 2. It's not a holiday, it's a remembrance. 3. If you want to know the true meaning, visit Arlington or your local VA or local Veterans Cemetery. 4. Don't talk to me how great any one political power is. Talk to me about Eugene Ashley, Brian Bucher, Nate Chapman, John Levitow, Jon Mills, Mitch Nelson, Chris Kyle, Neil Roberts, John Chapman, Robert Miller and countless other of our Special Forces heroes too numerous to name who made the ultimate sacrifice. Attend a Bell Ceremony, Roll Call or any other type and shed some tears. 5. Don't tell me I don't know what I am talking about, I have carried the burden all too many times for Warriors who now stand their post with God. 6. Remember the Fallen for all the Good they did while they were here. 7. Reach out and let a Vet know you're there, we're losing too many in "peace". One more thing, as a Veteran, when you come together, when you have that BBQ, before you eat, circle up and say a prayer. Raise a glass to your Brothers and Sisters that are gone. Then you don't say a word. After that, eat and enjoy each others company.