"Honor and Care," for Veterans

Former United States Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Michael J. Zacchea, once

shared with me, "it is easier ([for people)] to honor the dead than to care for the living. We need to both honor and care for the living, as well." Another former Marine told me that upon returning home, he felt like a refugee. "Everything I knew, we all shared a common language, a common culture. That was our world. Now, I am suddenly thrust into a world, for which I am unfamiliar, andfeel unprepared. My former life is gone, and it's gone forever. It's like I lost

my world."

It's been my experience that nearly all veterans, no matter what role they had in the

military, struggle with readjusting to prior-service life. The lack of structure, the feeling of not knowing who to rely on, and feelings of alienation can lead to substance use, increased irritability, isolation, and at worst, suicide.

Many people consider therapy as a crutch, that weaker people need to get through the week. But asking for help, and letting yourself receieve it, is a strength. Self reflectin is difficult and we have to face difficult truths head o in order to achieve positive outcomes. Avoidance is a trauma response to physical or psychological injury. Ignoring that injury won;t heal it.

If you are a veteran, active duty, in the Guard or Reserve, and in need of confidential

counseling services, I invite you to reach out to Luma Counseling to learn more about

how we can support you. Our team is here to help you navigate any difficulties you are facing, and to guide you in processing service-related traumas.