PTSD & Trauma
This condition can develop after experiencing or witnessing life-threatening events such as combat, assault, or disasters.
What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
This mood disorder is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and low energy for two weeks or more.
What is major depressive disorder?
Many people use this common legal substance to relax, but it can actually increase anxiety and interfere with sleep.
What is alcohol?
This word means the ability to bounce back after life’s challenges, like a rubber band returning to its shape.
What is resilience?
The 24/7 crisis line available to veterans in distress: dial this number and press 1.
What is 988, then press 1?
Certain sounds, smells, or places can suddenly bring back strong memories from the past and make your body feel like it’s back in that moment. What are those things called?
What are Triggers?
Veterans sometimes describe this physical feeling—racing heart, sweating, trembling—during a panic attack.
What are the physical symptoms of anxiety (fight-or-flight response)?
Some people turn to drugs or drinking to push away stress, pain, or memories. What’s one reason this coping doesn’t work for long?
What is the problem comes back (or it only numbs things short-term)?
When you take a few deep breaths, pause, and remind yourself “I can handle this,” you’re using this type of coping skill.
What is self-regulation or calming strategy?
Research shows that veterans are more likely to seek help when they talk first with someone who’s been through similar experiences. This is known as what kind of support?
What is peer support?
Sometimes when people have been through a lot, they pull away or shut down to protect themselves from getting hurt again. What do we call this behavior?
What is avoidance?
One positive action that can help lift mood and improve mental health without medication.
What is regular exercise, connecting socially, or practicing gratitude?
People sometimes return to use after being sober for a long time. What’s one common reason why?
What is stress, trauma, new life event, or losing support.
Research shows that this type of relationship factor—friends, family, or community—helps people recover faster from stress.
What is social support or connection?
This bill helps veterans and service members pay for college, graduate school, or job training programs.
What is the GI Bill?
Depression can worsen when people isolate. This term describes intentionally connecting with others to rebuild support.
What is social reintegration (or peer connection)?
Depression can worsen when people isolate. This term describes intentionally connecting with others to rebuild support.
What is social reintegration (or peer connection)?
People are less likely to return to use when they have folks they can call or places they can go for support. What is that kind of help system called?
What is a recovery network or peer support system?
When something stressful happens, asking yourself “What can I control?” instead of “Why me?” is an example of this mindset shift.
What is reframing or positive thinking?
These are the three core VA benefits veterans can access for mental health and well-being.
What are counseling, medication management, and case management/support services?