How Trauma Changes our Brain

Military service can be filled with traumatic events and frequent exposure. Quite frankly, these things can alter the way someone thinks and behaves. Trauma literally changes the brain.

Learning more about the effects of trauma might ultimately save a life.

You can help someone struggling with trauma by:

  • Learning their triggers
  • Providing reassurance of safety if someone shares their experience
  • Focusing on their strengths
  • Offering space for them to share their feelings
  • And more ...

These events don't have to define someone forever. Managing traumatic experiences in healthy and holistic ways can help.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, you can also help raise awareness about trauma & its impact on the brain with our educational toolkit.

    Know the Warning Signs of Suicide

    Check for these warning signs to determine if a loved one is at risk for suicide, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.

    • Talking about wanting to die or killing themselves
    • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online
    • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
    • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
    • Talking about being a burden to others
    • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
    • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
    • Sleeping too little or too much
    • Withdrawing or isolating themselves
    • Repetitive stressful events
    • Extreme mood swings

    If a friend or loved one is considering suicide ...

    • Be direct and talk openly with them
    • Listen and allow them to express their feelings
    • Get involved and make yourself available to them
    • Offer hope that alternatives are available
    • Take action to remove lethal means
    • Encourage them to seek help from a licensed professional

    If a friend or loved one is considering suicide, DON'T ...

    • Be judgmental, debate them or lecture them.
    • Dare them to do it.
    • Act shocked - this will put distance between you.
    • Allow them to swear you to secrecy.

    Don't wait until you're in crisis to reach out.

    Get Help