FACSAFOUNDATION.ORG SHATTERING THE SILENCE TOUR DOCUMENTARY PROJECT Volume 7 | Page 42
the kitchen or go big and have them train to climb Mount Everest. Find out what interests
them and go from there.
Help them network. They won’t always want new friends, but the more reclusive they
become the more difficult it will be for them to escape their self-imposed shell. Getting
them out into the community to do volunteer work, or proudly introducing them to
friends will improve their self-confidence and self-esteem. Show them that people will
accept them for who they are.
Give them a job! Today’s veterans have a high unemployment rate, so giving them
purpose and income can be a fantastic motivator. This goes back to number three!
Help the service member or veteran’s family as they all adjust to the changes. The
spouse, children and parents involved could all use personal time or opportunities to
relax. If you volunteer to watch a child for the evening, it could be the much needed time
they’ve needed to pick up groceries, get a haircut or recharge their batteries.
While we don’t have all the answers, and we’re still attempting new forms of treatment, know
that veterans are looking for someone to care about who they are and what they have to say. We
want you to care enough to see the warning signs; to do something that can positively affect
someone’s life; and to help America overcome this far to common tragedy. And while not every
service member is struggling, keeping the lines of communication open can help prevent it from
happening.
If you or someone you know needs help, please don’t hesitate to get help from a friend, contact a
family member, talk to a health professional or call the national crisis line for the military and
veterans, 1-800-273-8255.