Memorial Day

On th is Memorial Day, I've been reflecting on both those men and women who didn't survive their military service and those who came back suffering from traumatic and life-changing physical, emotional, and mental injuries.

My heart breaks for the kids and families of both those who have died and those who didn't come back the same as they left. When parents suffer from depression, traumatic brain injury, and post-traumatic stress disorder or physical injuries, families are put under enormous pressure.

May is Mental Health Month, a time to remember how important mental health care is for all of us, and especially for kids whose parents have mental illness. If you are struggling or know a family who may be dealing with a mental health issue, check out resources from NAMI, PTSD in Military Veterans HelpGuide, Military Kids Connect support for parents and kids.

In this video, actor Patrick Stewart offers very personal and candid insights into how PTSD (shell shock) can hurt kids and spouses:

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Want to make a donation to support veterans and their families? Consider:
Camp Hope, 
Puppies Behind Bars, and
​Veterans Yoga Project.