Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have served in the military, acknowledging the immense sacrifices they make in defense of our country. As the spouse of a veteran and someone with many veterans in my family, I’ve seen firsthand the price of service—the visible and invisible wounds—and how the battle doesn't always end when they return home. This day, during a time of public recognition, and a single square on a yearlong calendar, should also be a reminder that we must support our veterans long after the parades and ceremonies end.
The Unseen Struggles
Growing up with veterans in my family that include my grandparents, father and uncles, I always understood that military service is about more than just duty; it’s about sacrifice. My husband Mikael, brother-in law Dale and our many friends, who are also family– Eric L, Matt B, Wade L, Colton R, Myles C, Rob S, Josh D, and countless others, all combat veterans, sometime spoke of their experiences—of what they saw, what they lost, and what they carried home. But as much as they share, I know there are parts of their journey that remain unsaid. Like many veterans, the trauma they endured in war lingers long after the physical wounds have healed.
Mental health struggles such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common among those who have served in combat zones. According to the VA, around 30% of veterans will experience PTSD. These invisible scars—flashbacks, nightmares, and a sense of disconnection—can be harder to cope with than any visible injury. And while veterans might physically return home, their minds and spirits may remain entrenched in the horrors they faced.
The Battle to Come Home
Returning home after deployment can feel like stepping into a different world. I’ve watched my husband struggle to reconcile the discipline and mission-driven environment of the military with the more mundane aspects of civilian life. The quiet after the chaos of war can feel disorienting. Veterans often face a profound sense of isolation, even in the company of loved ones, because no one can truly understand what they’ve experienced.
This struggle can be compounded by the stigma surrounding mental health in the military. For many veterans, seeking help feels like a sign of weakness, which leads to unnecessary suffering. Sadly, untreated mental health issues can spiral into addiction, homelessness, and even suicide. Veterans are at twice the risk of dying by suicide compared to civilians, with the highest rate among those who’ve served in combat zones.
Paying the Ultimate Price
I’ve also witnessed the grief of families who lost loved ones in combat. While my husband made it home, other veterans in my family did not. Memorials and tributes can never truly capture the magnitude of their sacrifice. It’s important to remember that some pay the ultimate price not just in death, but in the loss of their mental health, their relationships, and their sense of self.
Honoring the Journey
This Veterans Day, as we honor the warriors who served, let us recognize not only the bravery they displayed on the battlefield but the resilience they show every day in confronting the battles within. The men and women who serve our country deserve our support long after they leave the military. This means providing better access to mental health resources, ending the stigma surrounding mental health care, and offering a hand to those who may be silently struggling.
As a spouse of a veteran, I’ve learned that the journey doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. It’s a lifelong commitment to healing, understanding, and support.
To all the veterans, past and present, thank you. You fought for our freedom, knowing that not everyone would acknowledge the price it cost you, your spouses, children, loved ones and families.
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