How Can We Better Support the Families and Friends of Veterans and Public Safety Personnel/First Responders?

TOOLS & SUPPORT:

Peer support plays a vital role in helping family and friends of Veterans and Public Safety Personnel/First Responders with PTSD cope with the emotional, mental, and logistical challenges they face. By engaging with others who are going through similar experiences, caregivers can gain a sense of validation and understanding that reduces feelings of isolation. Peer support provides an opportunity for individuals to share strategies, offer emotional comfort, and foster a sense of community. Research shows that support groups, both in-person and online, can be essential in helping individuals understand the complexities of PTSD and reduce stress and anxiety by giving them the tools to better navigate difficult situations (Sullivan & Pidcock, 2014). It can also provide an avenue for learning coping mechanisms, which can prevent burnout and ensure better mental health for the supporters themselves.

For families and friends, peer support also offers an outlet to express concerns, frustrations, and fears, knowing they are supported by others who truly understand their experience. This shared empathy strengthens relationships, while also encouraging self-care, a crucial element for those supporting loved ones with PTSD. A study by Galovski & Lyons (2004) found that providing mutual support in these settings helps reduce the emotional burden on caregivers, enhancing their ability to maintain healthy relationships with those they care about. Moreover, peer support fosters resilience, helping families develop practical tools for supporting their loved ones effectively, while reducing the risk of secondary trauma and mental health issues that can arise from long-term caregiving.

References:

• Galovski, T. E., & Lyons, J. A. (2004). Psychological well-being and distress in partners of veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 17(1), 29-35.

• Sullivan, J., & Pidcock, S. (2014). Peer support for family members of individuals with PTSD: A qualitative study. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 27(2), 182-189.

*** OSI-CAN provides Family and Friends Peer Support Thursday Nights at 7PM.

For more information and to sign up, contact the Facilitator via Facebook messenger at https://www.facebook.com/share/18JS6Qsv2K/

How Winston the Service Dog Brought Joy Back Into My Life

There was a time when I thought I might never smile again. The weight of my struggles had

become so heavy that even moments of joy felt distant and unattainable. My parents often told me they hadn’t seen a genuine smile from me in years. That all changed the day Winston entered my life.

Winston isn’t just a service dog—he’s a lifeline, a guardian, and my greatest source of

unconditional love. From the moment he arrived, I couldn’t stop smiling. He doesn’t judge me or expect me to explain myself. Whether I’m battling overwhelming emotions or just having a tough day, his big soft nose nudge, gentle paw, and warm, accepting eyes remind me that I am never alone.

A New Alarm Clock: Facing the Day with Courage

For so long, mornings were the hardest part of my day. I dreaded getting out of bed, feeling like the weight of the world would crush me if I tried to face it. But Winston changed that. He’s an alarm clock I can’t ignore—playfully seeking me out under my pillow, coaxing me out of hiding, and giving me the strength to face whatever the day has in store. These days, I wake up laughing at his goofy antics and feel a spark of energy to take on the world with him by my side.

A Brave Companion Against My Fears

Living with anxiety can make every moment feel like a potential minefield, with triggers lurking where you least expect them. But Winston is brave enough for both of us. He stands guard when my fears creep in, guiding me to safety with gentle nudges when I feel frozen with anxiety. His presence reassures me that I’m protected, even in the most uncertain situations.

Finding Rest in the Darkest Hours

For years, sleep was a battle I often lost. Nightmares haunted my nights, making rest impossible. But Winston has changed even that. When I’m trapped in a bad dream, he wakes me gently and stays by my side, offering comfort until I can fall back to sleep. His unwavering companionship has eased my fear of the night, giving me a peace I never thought possible.

Living Again: One Moment at a Time

Winston has done more than help me manage my fears—he’s given me my life back. I laugh out loud now, something I thought I’d forgotten how to do. His silly antics and playful nature remind me to live in the moment, to focus on the joy of now rather than the pain of the past. Most importantly, Winston has given me hope for the future. I no longer feel trapped, just waiting for life to be over. With him by my side, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and happiness. I’m excited about what lies ahead because I know we’ll face it together.

Thank You, OSI-CAN

None of this would have been possible without OSI-CAN. You’ve given me the opportunity to not just survive but truly live again. Winston has brought light and laughter back into my life, and for that, I will be forever grateful.

To anyone out there struggling: you are not alone. Help is available, and sometimes, it comes with a wagging tail, a goofy grin, and a heart full of unconditional love.

– Sofia, Former Paramedic

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What if my coworkers have difficulty discussing mental health?

a.       Discussing mental health can be difficult, but when starting a conversation with a co-worker, it's important to approach it with openness and without judgment. Keep the following in mind:

b.       Be available and approachable for mental health discussions

c.       Listen attentively without interrupting

d.       Use open-ended questions to encourage your co-worker to express their feelings

Be mindful of your body language, as it can communicate a lot without words