Veterans Day is Friday, November 11th. PTSD is a very serious effect of serving the country. People in the military are subject to traumatizing experiences every day. Because some events can be so traumatic, military veterans often find it difficult to adjust back to their normal lives. Traumatic events shock the brain, and can actually change it permanently. This is why PTSD awareness is so important, because veterans have gone through unimaginable scenarios, and people must recognize that, especially when observing Veterans Day.
Tri-Chamber Salute to the Troops
Thursday, November 10th from 4:00pm-7:00pm, the American Heritage Museum
This event is free for veterans, and its purpose is to celebrate the sacrifices made by those in the military. There will be an array of military technology and airplanes. It will celebrate and recognize the bravery of those who served in the military, and let them know their strength was not forgotten. It will also give people the opportunity to learn more about what goes into military technology and how it has changed the way the military operates. Plus, you can gain an appreciation for all that they went through during their active duty.
Warrior Wellness
Every Tuesday and Thursday at 9:00am, Boroughs Family Branch YMCA
This free event is brought on by the Boroughs Family YMCA, and is a recurring event. Twice a week, people can gather together to do a 45 minute strength training session together, inspired by and for veterans. They are given the opportunity to work on their physical health, which in turn benefits mental health. It’s a great way to show support and contribute to physical wellbeing.
Veterans Food Corner and More
2nd and 4th Saturday of the Month, Northborough, MA
Support your local troops by making a donation to the Veterans Food Corner and More. Here, donations provided will be given to troops. They are able to come and fill a grocery bag with food, drinks, household items, and anything they need. This service is provided so that veterans may use their money to do other things with their families, and have their essentials covered.
Veteran Appreciation Day
Tuesday, November 8th, 2022 from 9:00am to 11:00am, Borough Family Branch YMCA
This event is free for veterans. They will be having food, games, and even massages. Events like these are important in not only supporting veterans, but supporting their wellbeing, physical and mental.
Support the Sudbury Wounded Warriors Project
Sudbury for Wounded Warriors is a non profit organization that works to raise funds, awareness, and support for war veterans of all genders.
Boston Veterans Day Cruise
Saturday, November 12th from 11:00am to 3:00pm
Coming from Sudbury, you may have to drive around 45 minutes to Boston’s Downtown Waterfront, but it will be worth it! The cruise will depart from Long Wharf, and go to the Harbor Islands. The mission of this cruise is to appreciate the military history of Massachusetts while honoring veterans, old and new. Upon arrival, there will be a guided tour as well as activities for all ages.
Go for a Mental Health Walk at the National Parks
On Veterans Day, there will be free admission to the national parks for veterans. Getting out in nature is a great way to reflect, and practice gratitude. Boston is also a very prominent place for military history, and there are many attractions throughout the city, making it a great place to spend veterans day.
Volunteering to Help Veterans
Being in active duty can take a serious toll on mental health, and oftentimes, it can completely transform someone’s life. This is why awareness is so important, and why there are so many organizations to support veterans.
Easterseals Massachusetts
This organization brings veterans and community members together to form a support system which brings awareness of the trauma they have gone through, and their individual experiences. You can volunteer, donate, and attend various activities. One of the projects they have currently is called Operation Comeback, where they pair a rescued horse who has gone through a traumatic experience with a veteran, who are both adjusting to normal life and navigating their PTSD together. A beautiful bond is created, and the veterans are educated on the horse’s everyday life, and they are there to support each other in their healing journey.
If you are not a veteran but you still want to be part of the project, you can still support it by volunteering and donating. Another opportunity to participate for veterans and non-veterans are their group hikes, which are posted on their website upon scheduling.
PTSD is a very serious repercussion of serving in the military. If you or someone you know is a veteran and suffers from PTSD, help is out there, and you don’t have to suffer alone. Engaging in community activities just for veterans is a great way to build a support system and find others who share your experience.
If you are looking for further support from a mental health professional, Northeast Health Services is here for you. They are located in the Sudbury area, and provide psychiatric support services for people suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out; someone is there waiting to help.
