The Importance of Family Support

Honoring the Invisible Backbone of Healing

At the Combat Support Institute, we recognize that the journey of  healing from war is not one a veteran travels alone. Family members are  not just bystanders—they are vital allies in the recovery and  reintegration process. Their love, understanding, and resilience play a  crucial role in helping veterans navigate the long and often silent  aftermath of combat.

To truly support a combat veteran, we must first understand who they  were before war and how their experiences have reshaped their minds,  bodies, and spirits. War leaves marks that are not always visible—wounds  of the soul that manifest in silence, anger, withdrawal, or despair.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) as “an anxiety disorder that develops in reaction to physical injury or severe mental or emotional distress.” PTSD is not weakness—it is injury. And for many combat veterans,  especially elite military operators, the trauma of war is endured in  silence. Despite their unparalleled strength and discipline, the  accumulation of near-death experiences, loss, and constant vigilance  takes its toll.

Common symptoms of PTSD include:

• Intrusive memories or nightmares
   
• Sleeplessness and hypervigilance
   
• Emotional numbness or detachment
   
• Anger, irritability, and difficulty concentrating
   
• Avoidance of reminders, including crowds, traffic, or even trash on the roadside—common triggers linked to combat experiences
  

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when the brain  is disrupted by a violent blow, jolt, or penetrating injury. In combat,  TBIs are often caused by blasts, vehicle accidents, or direct impact.

Veterans suffering from TBI may experience:

• Memory and attention difficulties
   
• Changes in mood or behavior
   
• Emotional instability or depression
   
• Impaired decision-making or communication challenges
   

TBI and PTSD often co-occur, creating a complex set of symptoms that require specialized care and deep family support.

The transition from military to civilian life introduces additional  challenges. Long-term separation, survivor's guilt, and loss of military  identity can intensify depression and anxiety. These conditions can  present through both emotional (e.g., worry, fear) and physical (e.g.,  racing heart, sweating) symptoms, affecting the entire family unit. 

Our interactive workshops are designed to equip veterans and their families with tools for resilience and recovery. 

Topics include:

• Communication and discipline
   
• Navigating Combat PTSD and TBI
   
• Self-care for caregivers and children
   

These programs empower families to better understand their loved  one’s struggles and offer meaningful support—while also learning how to  care for themselves and prevent burnout.

Healing happens within the community. 

Throughout the year, we host:

• Outdoor therapy retreats for disabled veterans
   
• Caregiver restoration workshops
   
• Children’s empowerment activities
   
• Support offerings for Gold Star Families
   

These events create healing spaces for connection, restoration, and hope.

Caring for a combat-injured loved one is both noble and demanding. 

Our Caregiver Support Group offers a confidential, compassionate environment where caregivers can:

• Share experiences
   
• Learn coping strategies
   
• Build a network of support
   

These programs empower families to better understand their  loved one’s struggles and provide meaningful support—while also learning  how to care for themselves and avoid burnout. We also host a monthly Zoom meeting for caregivers,  featuring special guests and expert speakers who offer guidance,  encouragement, and practical tools for navigating life after combat.  

Join us in making a meaningful impact. Whether helping with event coordination, fundraising, or program support, volunteers are the heart of our mission. Individuals and groups alike are welcome to serve those who’ve served us all.