The Eagle Decal/Sticker was created to bring awareness of Veteran Suicide.
Some statistics say twenty-two veterans a day lose their life by suicide. The twenty-two stars on the eagle represent the twenty-two lives a day forever gone. Devastating reactions from bombarding emotions can cause life long repercussions. In a moment family lives are forever changed.
What can you do to actively help reduce these statistics? Become aware of the signs and seek help once aware.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have affected many of our veterans and service members. Both of these can cause memory loss, behavior changes, and self-destruction in the individual. The following can be signs to seek help: excess alcohol, drugs, self-mutilation, illicit sex, anger outburst, fear, anxiety, depression, and night terrors. In some cases, prescribed medications may cause suicidal thoughts.
A flashback can pop up in a person’s mind in a moment by a trigger no one else is aware of. Flashbacks cause a person to feel they are reliving the event. They can loose track of the present moment and have full body reactions like they experienced during the traumatic event. Flashbacks can cause a person to unexpectedly act out during that moment, or totally withdraw.
There is a price paid to live in a free country. Let’s show compassion, honor and respect to those that said yes and have served, or are still serving our country. Be aware how you can help a veteran in need.
Resources that helped us with and through our journey: Wounded Warriors, professional counselor skilled in military trauma, trusted and caring Pastors, PTSD couples counseling, and in N.C. Operation North State.
Suicide hotline number for Veterans and their loved ones is: 988 and press 1 or text 838255