Honoring Our Heroes: Essential Support for Veterans and Their Families
In celebration of Veterans Day this November, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the brave men and women who have served and protected our country. Please know you are not alone. Lutheran Family Services (LFS) is here for you.
Our Veterans Services Program offers confidential, individualized counseling for active military personnel, veterans, and their loved ones.
The Impact of Untreated Trauma
Many veterans experience untreated trauma reactions and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can have severe repercussions on their lives. Without proper support, these trauma responses can lead to physical illnesses, substance use disorders, social isolation, family conflicts, and diminished performance in both work and school environments. In addition, individuals exposed to the rigors of war may inadvertently transmit their traumatic experiences to their loved ones, impacting family relationships, social interactions, and even the emotional development of children.
Available Military Support Programs at LFS
Organizations like LFS offer valuable resources to address these challenges. Their programs include:
– Buddy Check: A compassionate outreach initiative to connect veterans with peer support.
– Peer Support: A network that fosters understanding and encouragement among veterans facing similar struggles.
– Veterans Court Diversion Mentoring: Support for veterans navigating the legal system, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Common Symptoms of Trauma-Related Disorders
Veterans and their families need to understand the common signs of trauma-related disorders like PTSD, war zone stress reactions, and trauma-related guilt. Symptoms can vary but often include:
- Isolation or noticeable personality changes
- Startled reactions to noise or movement.
- Intrusive memories of traumatic experiences.
- Hostility or suicidal thoughts.
- Lack of emotional responsiveness.
- Sleep disturbances, including nightmares.
- An overwhelming need to control situations.
- Anxiety, guilt, or depression.
- Challenges with authority figures.
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering.
- Thrill-seeking or risk-taking behaviors.
- A persistent sense of a foreshortened future.
Recognizing these symptoms is a crucial step in seeking help and support.
Approaches Used in Therapy
Veterans Services therapists use a variety of approaches to help clients cope with their experiences. These can include individual and couples therapy, peer support groups, and educational workshops targeting PTSD, stress reactions, trauma-related guilt, anger management, and effective coping strategies for daily life.
Furthermore, when necessary, LFS staff works to coordinate services with other community agencies, ensuring that veterans have access to a comprehensive network of support.
Real Help. Real Hope.
If you or someone you know is a veteran experiencing the effects of trauma, remember that help is available. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, and dedicated professionals are ready to assist in healing and recovery. Together, we can work towards nurturing the well-being of those who have bravely served our nation.
Call (402) 292-9105 or Click Here to learn more.
The LFS Holiday Check-In Challenge
Pick any year, and the holidays will be difficult for many people. In 2023, nine out of every ten Americans surveyed said they struggled with stress late in the year. [i] For those already challenged with depression, anxiety, or other mental illness, it is even worse.
At Lutheran Family Services (LFS), we know that checking in with others can make a critical, sometimes life-saving difference in someone’s life.
To address this, LFS is launching its new annual Holiday Check-In Challenge. We’re challenging people to check in on a friend or loved one every week during November and December.
The Challenge is about recognizing that small acts of kindness, like a simple phone call, text, or a visit, can be life-changing—especially for someone struggling with mental health during this time of year.
[1] https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/11/holiday-season-stress
We Need Your Help!
We’re asking LFS friends to help us spread the word by taking the Holiday Check-In Challenge. The goal isn’t just to offer support, but to create a ripple effect—encouraging others to do the same.
Follow us on social media for tips, resources, and inspiration from November 20 to December 31, 2024. Click here to learn more.
Giving Tuesday is December 3!
Get ready for the biggest giving day of the year! On December 3, we invite you to participate in Giving Tuesday with LFS. This year, every gift you give will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $20,000, thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor!
Your support helps us with essential programs in Nebraska, including:
- Children and Family Services
- New American Resettlement
- Behavioral Health Services
LFS Trivia Night – You Are Invited!
Join us on December 4 at 7 p.m. at Legend Comics & Coffee (6068 Maple Street, Omaha, NE) for LFS Trivia Night. Test your knowledge while supporting LFS—100% of the proceeds go to our programs!
