Welcome to Combat Support Institute Family Center

Family members play a major role in the healing process and well-being of their loved one who is struggling with mental health issues related to war. There are different areas that must be considered. We must first understand who they were before the war and how the war impacted them mentally.

According to DSM-5, the clinical definition for PTSD is “an anxiety disorder that develops in reaction to physical injury or severe mental or emotional distress.”  PTSD is an injury that most combat veterans, especially operators, will suffer in silence. They took an oath, yet despite the incredible stamina of military operators; the near misses and human casualties, takes a toll on the BEST and most ELITE.

Symptoms of PTSD include reoccurring memories, nightmares of the event, sleeplessness, loss of interest, feelings of numbness, anger, irritability, and constantly on the guard (hypervigilance), and emotional distress.

People with post-war PTSD avoid places that remind them of what happened. Seemingly innocuous things, such as traffic jams and trash piles on the side of the road are triggers, just to name a few. 

There are unique stressors associated with military life and after one’s service has ended. 

Depression is enhanced by the separation of loved ones and exposure to difficult situations. While anxiety comes in different forms (panic disorders, social anxiety disorder, etc.), it too will present itself in a variety of symptoms for both mental (excessive worry and fear) and physical (rapid heartbeat and sweating).

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is an injury to the brain caused by a violent blow, jolt, or a penetrating object to the brain tissue. 

TBI's resulting from combat leads to cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes. 

We cover a range of topics including discipline, communication, and self-care for the veteran, caregiver, and children. Understanding informative and interactive workshops about Combat PTSD in today's world is an important component in the healing process.

We will be hosting a variety of events throughout the year, including outdoor therapy retreats for the disabled veterans, caregiver restoration workshops, and activities for their children. We will also be offering the same resources to ALL Gold Star Families. 

Connect with other caregivers who understand the challenges of caring for an injured loved one after war. Our group provides a safe and supportive space for you to share and learn.

Make a difference in your community by volunteering at the Combat Support Institute. We welcome individuals and groups to help with events, fundraising, and program support.