What do you do to maintain or improve your mental health?

RallyPoint News — Mon, 08 May 2023 12:36:41 -0400

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Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made May 8 at 2023 12:47 PM

SFC Casey O'Mally — Mon, 08 May 2023 12:47:15 -0400

I have found that the best way to help my mental health is to stop worrying about me and help someone else. Whether it is helping their mental health, solving problems, or just grabbing the other end of a sofa they are trying to move. Helping others keeps me going.

Response by SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL made May 8 at 2023 1:20 PM

SFC Joe S. Davis Jr., MSM, DSL — Mon, 08 May 2023 13:20:24 -0400

Thanks for sharing

Response by Maj Kim Patterson made May 8 at 2023 1:50 PM

Maj Kim Patterson — Mon, 08 May 2023 13:50:41 -0400

I volunteer in the community in different capacities. For my brothers and sisters in arms, I volunteer at the local VA and will be at the Wall this week In Great Bend helping families and friends look for their loved ones and those who are still missing. I commit and I don’t quit. I work with the homeless, the grieving, the arts and always have Facebook messenger for chats. Sometimes we theoretically solve the worlds problems or just “listen”: I recently joined a community within my community which is heavily populated with active and retired. I began. “butterflies are Free” for those who are in need of hope and s bright spot. I volunteered with Convoy of Hope, Church on the Street, the Botanical Gardens Shower Up, sang in the nursing homes.. I also utilize the services of my VA especially for MST and PTSD. If I keep moving, I don’t have to feel but someone benefits,

Response by Maj Robert Thornton made May 8 at 2023 1:55 PM

Maj Robert Thornton — Mon, 08 May 2023 13:55:23 -0400

There are a number of things I do to help my mental health. First I volunteer as nurse at our local free medical clinic. I do it to keep myself current and to help those that are in the financial area where they don’t qualify for Medicaid or Medicare, and can’t afford medical insurance.
I exercise on my bikes. The Silver Comet and Chief Ladiga trails are great in the warmer weather. I a ride year round in my garage with a smart trainer hooked to my bike. I also enjoy mountain biking, since the Notth GA mountains are about 15-20 minutes from the house.
My other mental health activity is deer hunting in the Fall of the year. I love getting up in a tree with my hunting saddle and just taking in the stillness early in the morning.
Those are the activities I do to maintain my mental health.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 8 at 2023 2:02 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 08 May 2023 14:02:07 -0400

Everyday I seek to find humor... it helps me out tremendously. The trick is to login to RP early enough to see all the memes and ridiculously false stories about whatever politician is the biggest moron of the day! Never dissatisfaction.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 9 at 2023 1:32 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 09 May 2023 01:32:16 -0400

RallyPoint News I volunteer at a prison... I'm the Volunteer Staff Co-Ordinator for the American Legion Post & the Sons of the American Legion Squadron.
Since 2015 we have raised $32,849.00 and donated it too various charitable causes such as Operation Comfort Warrior, Convoy of Hope, Gold Star Mothers, Toys for Tots, Wreaths Across America, to name just a few. The Legion Members have also worked to improve "their" community by painting the Chapel, landscaping to include concrete curbing, held Veterans Day events for ALL incarcerated Veteran's, Memorial Day events, and many other projects. I'm inside the prison the first three Mondays of the month for meetings & one Saturday a month for a fundraiser for those incarcerated to participate in. Pre-Covid I also facilitated classes that prepared them for re-entry upon release.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made May 10 at 2023 10:11 AM

LTC Eugene Chu — Wed, 10 May 2023 10:11:28 -0400

1. Read self help books
2. Take care of physical health (exercise, nutrition, etc.)
3. Attempt to maintain good relations with supportive family members

Response by SGM Robert Winstead made May 10 at 2023 5:51 PM

SGM Robert Winstead — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:51:55 -0400

My wife and I play golf. We volunteer at our local golf course and interact with many different groups of people. We also spend most of our free time with each other because we enjoy each others company.

Response by SPC Lenny Alvarez made May 10 at 2023 5:52 PM

SPC Lenny Alvarez — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:52:27 -0400

I stay active at my local church/work with the youth, take care of my physical health, and make sure I dedicate time to doing simple things I enjoy (reading, journaling, roller skating, hiking). I recently booked a tiny cabin as a weekend getaway for myself in order to disconnect from the everyday, I highly recommend it!

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 5:52 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:52:34 -0400

I improve my mental health by popping in my ear pods and cleaning. I feel twice as good since I have decompressed and everything is clean and in order!

Response by PO3 John Lewis made May 10 at 2023 5:53 PM

PO3 John Lewis — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:53:00 -0400

Attend weekly video discussions with other vets. Group has grown to 12. We learn we’re not alone in managing stressors/triggers. Much needed camaraderie, too. Vets helping vets!

Response by CPL Jason Blackwood made May 10 at 2023 5:54 PM

CPL Jason Blackwood — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:54:15 -0400

I maintain my mental health by having check-ups with my therapist just like someone goes in for a physical.

Response by SP5 George Batty made May 10 at 2023 5:54 PM

SP5 George Batty — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:54:49 -0400

I drive school bus and interact with kids K through 12. Also serve on the school board. Then I do a lot of on line puzzles. newspaper crosswords and try to interact with everyone that I come in contact with.

Response by PV2 Dv Mike Daneault made May 10 at 2023 5:55 PM

PV2 Dv Mike Daneault — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:55:49 -0400

Remember to make my appointments and take my meds

Response by PO1 Sam Etter made May 10 at 2023 5:58 PM

PO1 Sam Etter — Wed, 10 May 2023 17:58:38 -0400

I go to therapy every week, and try to stay active in the community by volunteering with local veterans groups, like the fantastic Veterans Community Project in Kansas City and St Louis.

Response by MSG Dale Manning made May 10 at 2023 6:12 PM

MSG Dale Manning — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:12:24 -0400

I get away from everything and take a walk in the woods, go fishing, or just take a long drive in the country.

Response by SGT Mark Hoffman made May 10 at 2023 6:22 PM

SGT Mark Hoffman — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:22:45 -0400

I regular check on my older friends weekly

Response by SGT Cj White made May 10 at 2023 6:28 PM

SGT Cj White — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:28:52 -0400

I continue my education/continue learning new things. I pray, and read the Bible. I play guitar and lift weights. And I pursue, develop, and continue friendships.

Response by LCpl Henry Hughes II made May 10 at 2023 6:39 PM

LCpl Henry Hughes II — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:39:34 -0400

Stay busy so I don't think about it.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 6:50 PM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:50:32 -0400

This could come in handy for the new roof I need.

Response by SGT Erick Holmes made May 10 at 2023 6:51 PM

SGT Erick Holmes — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:51:42 -0400

To be honest I have many and i don’t know if that or those are even the answer to this question. For starters I like to fish. As much as I like to catch fish cook and eat believe or not I don’t come home with anything LOL. Being on the Kayak and fishing to me is the main reason I have not thought of other things that may not end well. There are days that it is hard to not think about life itself. The news or media damn sure doesn’t help, but for me just being on the water floating down the river is great. Sometimes its too relaxing where you start to fall asleep when the sun is just rising and your oh crap i’m in the brush or in the middle of the ocean or fog rolls in. Lord only knows how long you have been knock out LOL….

Response by SGT Bethany Kelly made May 10 at 2023 6:58 PM

SGT Bethany Kelly — Wed, 10 May 2023 18:58:19 -0400

Daily exercise even if it’s just stretching and a short walk.

Response by SGT Ronald Gonzalez made May 10 at 2023 7:04 PM

SGT Ronald Gonzalez — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:04:58 -0400

I start the day reviewing those people, places, things I am grateful for. I set my daily goal: Rise to the challenges of this day, and use them as an opportunity to Shine!! I help out as well I can, am a good listener, and take my fox-nosed Pom, Rascal, for walks. I keep my appointments at VA, especially with my Therapist and Geriatric Psychiatrist.

Response by SPC Grey O Nina made May 10 at 2023 7:10 PM

SPC Grey O Nina — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:10:21 -0400

I AM TAKING MUSIC CLASSES, GUITAR, AND PIANO. IT HELP ME A LOT

Response by FN Susan Hinkle made May 10 at 2023 7:15 PM

FN Susan Hinkle — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:15:45 -0400

Besides seeing my therapist weekly, and spending time with my little dogs, I practice yoga and pranayama (control of breath). I have finally realized how important self-care is. It's the reason why on an airplane, when they are doing the safety presentation, they tell you to put the oxygen mask on yourself first before helping those around you. My takeaway from that is that if I don't take good care of myself, I won't be able to effectively help others. Helping others not just in big ways, but small ways as well is what truly makes us happy as human beings.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 7:31 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:31:32 -0400

Laugh if you want to, but I’ve taken up birdwatching and it the best thing ever for my mental health. Being in nature alone with no distractions or any particular schedule is walking meditation. Looking and listening for birds keeps my mind engaged just enough to keep things interesting, plus there is a thrill when you see a new bird! It is a cheap and easy hobby that can be done anywhere, anytime and I can’t recommend it enough!

Response by PO3 John Pogue made May 10 at 2023 7:38 PM

PO3 John Pogue — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:38:23 -0400

Body scan meditating

Response by Cpl Richard Leibold made May 10 at 2023 7:40 PM

Cpl Richard Leibold — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:40:09 -0400

We teach inductive study of the Bible. We recognize we are art of something bigger than us. We find a great deal of peace in this.

Response by SFC Ryan West made May 10 at 2023 7:42 PM

SFC Ryan West — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:42:09 -0400

I just got a service dog....game changer for sure.

Response by PO3 Jasmine Smith banta made May 10 at 2023 7:45 PM

PO3 Jasmine Smith banta — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:45:10 -0400

I volunteer with the women’s veterans group as well as my family, and I make gift bags for the homeless, and we have them out at random. Every time we see homeless on the street he gives me a sense of purpose makes me feel like I matter. And it’s nice to spend time with family doing something good something positive something helpful something to take my mind off of the things that gave me PTSD

Response by SSG Adrian Walker made May 10 at 2023 7:45 PM

SSG Adrian Walker — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:45:29 -0400

I tried to talk about my mental health issues with the department of veterans affairs doctors, aka the psychiatrist department and I ended up being involuntary put in to the psychiatric hospital for a month and lost my rights to own a firearm. What on God's Green Earth would I tell you what I do now to stop any of my thoughts from being intrusive or something else. So my advice for anyone who wants to know what to do, don't tell them anything, it will be used against you. The V.A. killing veterans since 1943.

Response by SP5 Dan Hall made May 10 at 2023 7:57 PM

SP5 Dan Hall — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:57:04 -0400

Working, as a volunteer advisor, with three High School Students in the Summit Technology Academy has restored my faith in America's future! I had become somewhat depressed with watching the network news until I met these three inspiring high school students who are involved in bringing Star-link services to a rural school in Kenya.
Dan Hall (on left in photo)
US Army Vet

Response by SSgt James Gerdy made May 10 at 2023 8:00 PM

SSgt James Gerdy — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:00:32 -0400

Read exstensively and get out and converse with the public.

Response by SSgt James Gerdy made May 10 at 2023 8:02 PM

SSgt James Gerdy — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:02:18 -0400

Read extensively, stay in contact with the public buy and sell antiques

Response by SGT Terry Wosmek made May 10 at 2023 8:05 PM

SGT Terry Wosmek — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:05:38 -0400

To maintain my mental health I exercise, journal and make sure to keep close to my friends and family. When I start to feel a little off I will use counseling or meditate. I’m not afraid to ask for help or admit when I’m feeling off. As they say, it’s ok to not be ok.

Response by COL Henry Beaulieu made May 10 at 2023 8:06 PM

COL Henry Beaulieu — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:06:16 -0400

I read my Bible daily and pray through the promises of God and the wonderful attributes of God!

Response by A1C Wade Pacuch made May 10 at 2023 8:21 PM

A1C Wade Pacuch — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:21:00 -0400

for 12 years i have been feeding the homeless(including veterans) out of the back of my van. I make them hot chicken soup and sandwiches and get them their birth cert.. from other states so they can have i.d. I have several pages of phone numbers where I can get them help. several churches supply me with left overs from their dinners and functions so I canfeed 4 or 5 days a week I am 82 years old. wadein [login to see] winning would help asfwwding articles and ga gets expensive..

Response by Cpl Art Torres made May 10 at 2023 8:38 PM

Cpl Art Torres — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:38:49 -0400

I drink and smoke marijuana.

Response by SSG Carl Mittelhauser made May 10 at 2023 8:41 PM

SSG Carl Mittelhauser — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:41:22 -0400

My husband I pray for others. He has agent orange Parkinsons. Most of the things we could do before to help others we not longer can. Prayer is always needed and we can do it from home.

Response by PO3 Walt Perko made May 10 at 2023 8:51 PM

PO3 Walt Perko — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:51:49 -0400

I created the "RoboGuts™ S.T.E.A.M. Education Program" http://www.R2Pv1.com/, and I also have been building and repairing vintage computers, besides transporting some of the robotics technology to my vintage 1975 Altair 8800c computer
"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOF4wjonCKw&ab_channel=WaltPerko" ...
and I also write music
"http://www.brainless.org/ndmp/ThisIsAmerica.htm" "http://www.brainless.org/ndmp/".
Then I also help my neighbors in the low-income senior apartments with their TV and computer problems. I've started creating some 3D CAD models of a new S-100 vintage style computer cases for the S100Computers.com group
"https://groups.google.com/g/s100computers"
as well as adding another source for information to building vintage computers;
"http://www.brainless.org/Altair/"
I also have been creating the "RoboToons Robot Cartoons series ... over 700 cartoons so far.
The only thing slowing me down at 73-years old is a lack of sufficient funds.

Response by PO3 Walt Perko made May 10 at 2023 8:54 PM

PO3 Walt Perko — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:54:47 -0400

Response by SPC Eric Swackhammer made May 10 at 2023 8:55 PM

SPC Eric Swackhammer — Wed, 10 May 2023 20:55:17 -0400

I've been through the VA Domiciliaries a handful of times. Taken all their classes and therapies, CBT, MRT, DBT, etc, etc, I just practice what I've learned there. Also moving out of major cities to the mountains of Wyoming has helped me almost more than anything.

Response by SFC Joe Ping made May 10 at 2023 9:01 PM

SFC Joe Ping — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:01:09 -0400

I count to 10. I pause and then I curse out the stupid person pissing me off

Response by MSG Ricky Sorci made May 10 at 2023 9:03 PM

MSG Ricky Sorci — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:03:39 -0400

I listen to and study the Bible daily. I also pray and memorize the Bible to keep me on track and in harmony with the purposes God plans for me each and every day. The Bible is my firm foundation that I rely on. It has never let me down. And, the God of the Bible watches over me and guides me with His Spirit as I put my trust in Him and His word and promises.

Response by 1st Lt Colleen Cartier made May 10 at 2023 9:08 PM

1st Lt Colleen Cartier — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:08:45 -0400

Be always grateful for what God has blessed me with. If you think about all you have to be grateful for there isn't a lot of room to be sad.

Response by Anthony Williams made May 10 at 2023 9:10 PM

Anthony Williams — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:10:09 -0400

Positive thinking Positive affirmations Doing good deeds to help others Praying consistently

Response by ENS Jim Mackey made May 10 at 2023 9:10 PM

ENS Jim Mackey — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:10:31 -0400

At 86, with heart failure, COPD, Asthma, Sleep Apnea and AFIB, the FIRST thing I do in the morning is use my Concept Two Indoor Rower to row 1,600 meters (one mile) for 20 minutes; Next I lift free weights of 5 to 10 pounds for 45 minutes following an illustrated chart of DUMBBELL WORKOUTS; Next I follow an illustrated charts of YOGA ASANAS postures doing the ones I can do standing up for 20 minutes; then I go for a 20 minute massage with a electric neck and back massager. I find that exercise in the early morning improves my mood, reduces stress, minimizes pain, increases my functional mobility and muscle strength. All of this helps me sleep better at night which is hard when you are elderly but it reflects the character of disciplined exercise routines, built-up through a life of jogging (like a Budweiser Clydesdale) about 40 miles a week for 40 years until I was retired at 68. My point is no matter what shape you are in, physically or mentally, or what your age is, its never too late to begin SLOWLY exercise into your day---and the best time is early morning.

Response by MSG Ricky Sorci made May 10 at 2023 9:11 PM

MSG Ricky Sorci — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:11:08 -0400

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 9:12 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:12:29 -0400

The biggest thing to do, is self decompressing. Find something to relieve reduce the stresses of every day life. For some it’s video games, for some card games, others movies or reading. Finding people you can trust to help you talk about whatever you need while simultaneously helping to keep you calm during upsetting events is crucial.

Response by SPC Robert Black made May 10 at 2023 9:12 PM

SPC Robert Black — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:12:57 -0400

I have regular contact with both service and non-service friends. This keeps up the camaraderie that is found among my service family but also keeps me in touch with civilian life.

(I also take my medication and go to regular counseling sessions. This keeps my chemistry 'balanced' and gives me a safe place to explore problems with a professional.)

Response by SGT Lisa Engel made May 10 at 2023 9:14 PM

SGT Lisa Engel — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:14:55 -0400

For 11 years now, I have volunteered at Stepping Stone Farms School of Horsemanship and Horse Rescue. Right before I completed my MS degree in Educational Psychology, Community Counseling, I was completing my practicum with a veterans' organization. As part of our outreach efforts, I met the executive director and founder of the farm and was completely inspired to be a part of it. I was contacted in May of 2012 by the director and offered the opportunity to certify in Equine-Assisted learning and therapy. I signed up and completed the certification, and immediately began working as a volunteer counselor with clients who had come to the farm to find healing, especially veterans with combat experiences which haunted them and disrupted their lives. Eleven years later, I continue to work to help rescue horses and see the amazing impact they have to help people heal. It's difficult to explain to anyone who hasn't witnessed the power of this type of therapy, but it is something I will continue to dedicate myself to for many years to come.

Response by SrA Stephanie Price made May 10 at 2023 9:17 PM

SrA Stephanie Price — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:17:59 -0400

I make sure to keep time in my schedule for personal workouts, and I also promise myself time for friends and hobbies - sometimes it's a night of board games, or maybe dinner and a concert.

Response by Sgt Neal Scoular made May 10 at 2023 9:19 PM

Sgt Neal Scoular — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:19:00 -0400

Work hard on my family relationships.

Response by FN Steve Heglmeier made May 10 at 2023 9:19 PM

FN Steve Heglmeier — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:19:19 -0400

Exercise, it doesn't matter if one feels like it or not. Both your mental and physical health will improve and you will have more energy for the day.

Response by PO2 Sally Hintemeyer made May 10 at 2023 9:25 PM

PO2 Sally Hintemeyer — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:25:25 -0400

Sit on the beach reading a good book while listening to the waves reaching the shore.

Response by CPL Larynn Lehman made May 10 at 2023 9:25 PM

CPL Larynn Lehman — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:25:33 -0400

Dr. Joe Dispenza meditations helped me create a life I love and heal my traumas.

Response by SA Miranda Gift made May 10 at 2023 9:29 PM

SA Miranda Gift — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:29:07 -0400

Mental health is a finicky thing... But I tend to take time for myself when I'm overwhelmed or anxious, just go into another room and put on some white noise to shut out any intrusive noises. I also make sure to take my medication on time and religiously. I bought a lot of plants to take care of as well, it's very relaxing, and this way I can take a moment on the porch and just be one with nature. I still work for Department of Defense, and being surrounded by those who understand and can relate is absolutely paramount for me as well.

Response by PO3 Alissa Gianfortone made May 10 at 2023 9:38 PM

PO3 Alissa Gianfortone — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:38:26 -0400

I make sure to stick to the routines I know that work for me to maintain my mental health. I exercise regularly, try to make smart meal choices and make time for cuddles with my dog. I'm fortunate enough to live near where I currently work, so I take a midshift walk to take him out and make sure his needs are met. Fur-therapy midday helps my mood and well being a lot!

Response by Cpl James Longo made May 10 at 2023 9:41 PM

Cpl James Longo — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:41:07 -0400

Remove toxic people from my life, and remember to make sure all Democrats are removed from the face of America and lock down the borders and hang the trespasser don't send them back home they will just keep sneaking in a back window when we take our eye off the walls.

Response by PO2 Patricia Mikkelsen made May 10 at 2023 9:47 PM

PO2 Patricia Mikkelsen — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:47:27 -0400

Joined Rally today to get VA information! And I play Yoga and Meditation music on Spotify to relax and fall asleep too!

Response by CPO Chris Gardner made May 10 at 2023 9:51 PM

CPO Chris Gardner — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:51:30 -0400

I fill out a gratitude journal in the morning along with the daily Calm app. In the evenings, I have another journal where I brain dump everything in my head. Tasks, thoughts, worries, fears. As I lie in bed I listen to the daily Headspace app.
Takes about an hour of my day, but it so worth it!

Response by PFC Andrew Van Ronzelen made May 10 at 2023 9:59 PM

PFC Andrew Van Ronzelen — Wed, 10 May 2023 21:59:35 -0400

As both a Veteran and a Husband to another Army Vet (and sadly, MST victim), Mental Health and Stability are ALWAYS on the forefront of my mind. The best way that I have found to maintain, or at times, find again, the sense of peace and tranquility that we both yearn and strive for, is to get out of our normal, city-life routines as MUCH and as OFTEN as possible. Instead of spending weekends sitting around the house watching TV or being "stagnant", going to the local parks to hike, camping out by the river, exploring the few (but lovely!) remaining little towns and villages that are tucked away in the middle of nowhere are usually surefire ways to help improve and/or keep the positivity flowing from both my wife and I. Sitting still is a killer both on your body, and more importantly, your mind/emotions. Something as simple as walking around a pond or lake with your Beloved (pets are optional, but our Service Dog LOVES it!), and enjoying a picnic from your ruck as a romantic surprise is both cheap, easy, and pays off in dividends for both our sanity AND our relationship. Just a simple and pleasant walk in a quiet, natural environment can remove stress, worry, and negative feelings in less than an hour's time. Basically anything out in Nature has such a refreshing effect on the mind and soul, that I'd be willing to bet on it against any VA Quack's prescription pad any day of the week and twice on Sunday!

Response by PO3 Patrick Harmen made May 10 at 2023 10:01 PM

PO3 Patrick Harmen — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:01:44 -0400

I keep my mind busy. I read. And. I'm a very positive person. Navy taught me respect, and direction at 17 & half. It was the best thing for me.

Response by A1C Arne Hyman made May 10 at 2023 10:06 PM

A1C Arne Hyman — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:06:03 -0400

Exercise always makes me feel better physically, emotionally, and mentally. It's the absolute best medicine for a healthy and happy life.

Response by PFC John Wood made May 10 at 2023 10:10 PM

PFC John Wood — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:10:58 -0400

Walk my dog

Response by PO3 Porchia Owens made May 10 at 2023 10:11 PM

PO3 Porchia Owens — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:11:04 -0400

There's a number things I do to maintain good mental health. On a regular basis, I journal first thing in the morning. I mostly write about what I'm grateful for and what I look forward to that day. I think it's important to take the time out to acknowledge even the little things that we may take for granted. I also listen to affirmations and motivational speeches first thing in the morning. Working out for at least 30 minutes a day also helps me maintain good mental health. I feel like it contributes to me feeling good, mentally and physically. It tends to help me maintain a level head, and not let the little things bother me.

Response by SPC Carla Theriot made May 10 at 2023 10:14 PM

SPC Carla Theriot — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:14:54 -0400

I play pickleball everyday. It is life changing.

Response by CWO2 John Mincey made May 10 at 2023 10:16 PM

CWO2 John Mincey — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:16:38 -0400

I continue to meet with my therapist and take my medication. I reach out to my immediate family members just to check in and also reach out to my brothers and sisters I have had the privilege to serve with. Knowing that everyone is ok helps me be ok!!!

Response by SP5 Carli Dan made May 10 at 2023 10:17 PM

SP5 Carli Dan — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:17:32 -0400

I maintain my mental health by making sure that I have one of each: something that feeds my mind (reading, learning something new, documentaries), regular physical activity, something that feeds my spirit (meditation, time in nature, prayer), a creative outlet, and something that I enjoy that makes me money or is of service to humanity. The latter does not have to be lucrative but enjoyable. I can't say that I always have every box checked but when I do, everything else just seems to work itself out.

Response by SPC Thomas Lee made May 10 at 2023 10:23 PM

SPC Thomas Lee — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:23:47 -0400

I volunteer with NAMI SW and I maintain contact with family and friends.

Response by Lt Col Esteban Rodgers made May 10 at 2023 10:24 PM

Lt Col Esteban Rodgers — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:24:49 -0400

I like to go for long runs to relax and clear my head.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 10:38 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:38:24 -0400

To maintain or improve my mental health? I drive and sing. I wasn't in a good spot mentally when I can back from deployment. I left my house and my husband, I tried to maintain for my girls, but it spiraled fast. I broke down and finally opened up to my husband. Moved back in. Saw a counselor. Now I go to church each weekend I'm not drilling, and I sing in the choir. I try to give myself time alone, but I'm also still working on being open about my feelings. It's a process but I know I never want to be where I was emotionally again.

Response by SP6 Stephen Slavik made May 10 at 2023 10:39 PM

SP6 Stephen Slavik — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:39:48 -0400

Sometimes it's hard to get up in the morning and put on a smile and act like I understand civilian life! I DONT, WE DONT, so I keep myself busy and try to do one thing for somebody that I don't know. It may be as simple as hold the door for a senior citizen or female. Many respond with a look on their face in thanks. Some, don't understand why I go out of my way andnI respond " chivalry isn't dead" ma'am or sir!! It's the little things that make our society better especially with the division I see every day. I sometimes pull the trash can up on a complete strangers house and when caught and they are wondering what I'm doing with their trash can I respond " nobody likes taking or bringing the cans back and I thought that helping you would help" people think I'm crazy maybe I am but I don't care and if everybody would help their neighbor no matter their race, color religion or whatever.mit makes me feel good even if I'm completely down and hurting on the inside. I don't know where I would be if I didn't see the smiles on strangers faces.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 10:45 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:45:52 -0400

Yoga and meditation. Just found Veteran Yoga Project and can't wait to check them out!

Response by A1C Della Dalaney made May 10 at 2023 10:45 PM

A1C Della Dalaney — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:45:58 -0400

I help my roommate and my next door neighbor get to their doctor visits and do a lot of their shopping. When I'm helping others I find I don't think about my own health as much.

Response by Christine T made May 10 at 2023 10:47 PM

Christine T — Wed, 10 May 2023 22:47:59 -0400

I find that when I volunteer and give back it boosts my mental health. It hasn't always been easy to fit in time away from the general busy every day tasks, working, family life etc. However, when I am able, I immediately feel an instant boost even in the smallest of tasks given to me. I also love to craft and donate my projects, I have made various military related items and gifted them to a fabulous organization I have been a member of for many years. Each year they hold a big Gala event and I donate hand made items, such as an American flag made out of small paper roses and on the glass there are either service branches, or other military related silhouettes. It takes me weeks to put these projects together as each rose is hand rolled, but with each one made, I think of things I am grateful for and that brings me much joy.

When all else fails and I need an immediate boost, a walk outside without my head phones in works wonders. Listening to nature around me is wonderful and I always try and walk on paths that lead to or go along side a river. Its peaceful!

Response by CPL ElizaBeth Bell made May 10 at 2023 11:01 PM

CPL ElizaBeth Bell — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:01:28 -0400

I try to spend as much time with my 13 grandkids as I possibly can. I volunteer to help watch them when my daughters need respite for their mental health.
I make sure I'm on top of taking my medicine and making it to my appointments at the VA to continue my care.
I also seek the help of a psychologist on a regular basis so that I've got someone to talk through my ptsd, anxiety and depression issues with.
One of my favorite things to do to maintain my mental health is to garden and work with my flowers and vegetables. There's nothing more satisfying than getting dirt under your fingernails and having beautiful flowers or fresh vegetables to show for it.

Response by MSG Chris Cain made May 10 at 2023 11:02 PM

MSG Chris Cain — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:02:34 -0400

I try to stay busy with work, play with my kids, and figure out ways to keep the wife happy.

Response by SR George Maughan made May 10 at 2023 11:10 PM

SR George Maughan — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:10:55 -0400

You need to always keep in touch with your doctors if you need them. Always surround yourself with positive people. Don't ever be afraid to talk to someone if you are in crisis. I wake up every day and do positive things towards the community. Don't be afraid to get help if you suffer from any mental illness. I myself, suffer from some issues. With my proper care, I am living a joyous life. Always ask for help if you need it. Mental health is a serious issue and should not be dealt with without proper care. May all Americans and especially veterans, get the best help if needed. The help is out there. Everyone have a great day, George Maughan.

Response by CSM Richard Montcalm made May 10 at 2023 11:12 PM

CSM Richard Montcalm — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:12:11 -0400

Stay active and connected to friends and family

Response by PV2 Sergio Obando made May 10 at 2023 11:13 PM

PV2 Sergio Obando — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:13:28 -0400

I am joining Operation Surf in the Central Coast for a three month commitment, twice a week to improve my mental health.

Response by CPL Rick Cordeiro made May 10 at 2023 11:18 PM

CPL Rick Cordeiro — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:18:22 -0400

Along with lifes rules of living and the state of our world today with so much war & anger is tough. In 2018 after 40 years of silence & denial I got some help through the VA program and was diagnosed with PTSD/MST. In 2019 I applied for the Warriors To Lourdes program and was accepted. This is a International Military Pilgrimage celebrated evey may. I was struggeling & this all expenses paid trip to one of the Holiest place in the world changed my life in a beatiful way. The memories of this trip really did save my life and my saintly. To be with 3-4000 military personal from over 42 countries was amazing. If anyone who is struggling with a PTSD issue they should look into this program called Warriors To Lourdes, and maybe save another veterans with the difficult struggle of PTSD.
Richard Cordeiro
2/13 Inf Div

Response by SSgt David Baber made May 10 at 2023 11:19 PM

SSgt David Baber — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:19:08 -0400

always keep busy doing anything and everything I am 80 years young and there is not a day that goes by that i haven't worked at least 7 hours in the yard or doing crafts of some kind KEEP BUSY!!!!!!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 10 at 2023 11:39 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:39:44 -0400

To maintain or improve my mental health, I seek out community service activities in my area. I joined the Army because I am service-oriented and that didn't just stop after my contract ended. Giving back to my community not only helps those around me but it gives me purpose!

Response by Sgt Stu Kopelman made May 10 at 2023 11:42 PM

Sgt Stu Kopelman — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:42:05 -0400

The personal creed that every single person bases his life on is only genuine when it is one he is willing to die for. Our mental state depends upon it. What do we value most in life that we do not merely talk about, but spend our lives pursuing? Once, I had everything, or so I thought. I knew great geniuses in Mathematics and Physics---Noble Prize-winners. I saw wonders in my life few ever realized. But I fell, and crashed, and burned from the highest mountaintop. It was not enough to bring peace into my life. I knew a great millionaire, but he committed suicide. An article cheering on the best mom of the year found herself in prison for improprieties she committed.

The mental state of a man does not come from his outward appearance which boasts great impressions for others to see. It comes from that still, small voice saying, "“This is the way, walk in it,” whenever you turn to the right or to the left."" That comes from the Creator, who gives us a conscience to do what is right, and when we do, there is a "peace that passes all understanding."

Response by SPC Michael Wadsworth made May 10 at 2023 11:46 PM

SPC Michael Wadsworth — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:46:59 -0400

For my mental well-being, I play Call of Duty and go to the gun range.....A LOT!

Response by PO2 Alvin Sanchez made May 10 at 2023 11:49 PM

PO2 Alvin Sanchez — Wed, 10 May 2023 23:49:49 -0400

Right now I am not in very good shape due to post Covid-19 problems. Chronic Kidney Disease stage 4, severely Chronic lung scarring, Fibromyalgia, and a host of other ailments from being in a coma for 27 days and my body shutting down. As you can guess my mental health gets tasked quite often. This my sound hokey to some but what I do to beat depression when it comes on is to use meditation (or controlled day dreaming) to pick me up. The focus of that meditation is playing over and over the best time in my life ... serving on board an FBM submarine during the cold War. The danger, risk and reward of those experiences soothe my mind and keeps me focused. Knowing that I served my country even though know one knows is my calming drug. The good times and the bad makes me think I made a difference in this world. My future white cross in Fort Logan Cemetary and subsequent wiping my existence from this world doesn't phase me. "I " know I made a difference.

Response by CPL George Ross made May 11 at 2023 12:02 AM

CPL George Ross — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:02:45 -0400

I have focused on my empathy with our future generations. I have been fostering children for over 50 years, and have adopted a philosiphy whereby you are so focused on them you realize your pourpose.

Response by SSgt Gary Rayfield made May 11 at 2023 12:08 AM

SSgt Gary Rayfield — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:08:20 -0400

The one major thing I do to keep my mental health good is to attend Church Services every week. Also, as a part of that, I "Zoom" meet with our Life group to discuss the Sermon for the last or most recent service. Keeping Christ at the head of my day and my life keeps this old guy happy, enthusiastic, and energized for each and every day of my life.

Response by SN Walter Chinchilla made May 11 at 2023 12:15 AM

SN Walter Chinchilla — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:15:45 -0400

work on my bike and home, stay busy doing something.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 12:20 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:20:12 -0400

Something I do to help maintain or improve my mental health is volunteer as a youth sports coach on base. It's very rewarding and it makes me feel like I can still contribute to the military community. Something else I do is participate in my local WWP peer support group. I have made good friends. It's just easier to talk to other veterans. Fishing with my son also helps.

Response by SGT Charles Carter Jr made May 11 at 2023 12:21 AM

SGT Charles Carter Jr — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:21:26 -0400

To maintain my mental health, I take my prescribed medication and I try to respect those I encounter when I attend my appointments when I am able to keep my head together.

Response by PO2 Ronald Bracken made May 11 at 2023 12:26 AM

PO2 Ronald Bracken — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:26:10 -0400

In addition to taking meds prescribed by the VA, I stay active at my church, being involved in the church choir and Celebrate Recovery. I am also a member of the local American Legion post.

Response by SGM Roy Smith made May 11 at 2023 12:38 AM

SGM Roy Smith — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:38:38 -0400

Mini reunions with comrades. We try to get together monthly but at least every quarter

Response by SGT Michael Brand made May 11 at 2023 12:39 AM

SGT Michael Brand — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:39:30 -0400

Listening to music (live, on the radio, on my computer, & on CD).

Response by PFC Charles Blair made May 11 at 2023 12:51 AM

PFC Charles Blair — Thu, 11 May 2023 00:51:38 -0400

I look for the good in every day and Thank God for it. I do not focus on anything negative.

Response by PVT Jon Fitzpatrick made May 11 at 2023 1:01 AM

PVT Jon Fitzpatrick — Thu, 11 May 2023 01:01:56 -0400

$100 for my answer?

Response by SPC Nadeen Starlings made May 11 at 2023 1:30 AM

SPC Nadeen Starlings — Thu, 11 May 2023 01:30:27 -0400

I do yoga, salt caves, chakras and sound health treatment

Response by CPL Jay Graham made May 11 at 2023 1:48 AM

CPL Jay Graham — Thu, 11 May 2023 01:48:40 -0400

I am grateful for what I have. God got me through a lot of mental health issues. There is the VA mental health services with group therapy, that I utilize. The VA is offering more yoga and Tai Chi classes.

Response by TSgt Mary Matthews made May 11 at 2023 1:49 AM

TSgt Mary Matthews — Thu, 11 May 2023 01:49:30 -0400

After being injured by a mortar in Iraq, my entire life fell apart. Since then, I have kept my PTSD under control by trying as many crazy activities as possible. I have run numerous Spartan races, been skydiving, joined a roller derby team, rode dirt bikes, bought a Harley, and started training in Jiu Jitsu. I also play many instruments and have started writing and recording my own music. This is how I stay sane and take care of my mental health and well being.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 2:01 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 02:01:50 -0400

I currently have made a deep dive into my physical well being to help wit this. I have found that the more that I can exercise the more my mind can be put at ease.

Response by PVT Joksan Morgan made May 11 at 2023 2:08 AM

PVT Joksan Morgan — Thu, 11 May 2023 02:08:11 -0400

I participate in equestrian therapy.

Response by A1C Bryan Wootton made May 11 at 2023 2:22 AM

A1C Bryan Wootton — Thu, 11 May 2023 02:22:34 -0400

My name is Bryan and I served in Turkey during desert storm and came home and found out I had multiple sclerosis. I have been fighting the battle with depression since 2000 I have two titanium shoulders, and one titanium hip. I am currently enrolled in the MDMR program which is helping me deal with the drama that I experienced overseas and I recommend this to anyone. I do a virtual therapist once a week to help me deal with the issues. I know this is going to be an ongoing battle for the rest of my life And I can only hope that I am not one of the 21. Thank you to everyone that served no matter what branch you were in and we were all here together to help one another because I feel if you weren’t there then you really can’t understand the trauma That we went through. The ones that didn’t make it or not lost or forgotten, God is watching over you and bless the families that lost a loved one. It’s a fight every day, but if you fight the battle, I think you can win.

Response by SFC Kevin Cornett made May 11 at 2023 2:34 AM

SFC Kevin Cornett — Thu, 11 May 2023 02:34:58 -0400

Take a deep breath, count to ten. Take a walk. Play fairly mindless games on my phone, LOL

Response by PO2 Michael Jarecke made May 11 at 2023 3:02 AM

PO2 Michael Jarecke — Thu, 11 May 2023 03:02:35 -0400

In my case, I do a couple of things to help me maintain positive growth from the challenges of military service.

I am a paramedic and volunteer in my community. I am utilizing my military training and experience to benefit my small community.

Also, I work on my small farm tending to our small crops and fruit trees. I produce a lot of extra fruit and vegetables and give them out for free to those less fortunate in my community.

These two activities help me maintain my wellness and mental health. As well as keep me active to help my general health.

Response by LCDR Nancy La Rocque made May 11 at 2023 3:04 AM

LCDR Nancy La Rocque — Thu, 11 May 2023 03:04:44 -0400

I crochet or sew. Surrounding myself with beautiful fabric and yarn gives me joy. And having my two orange cats keeps me happy.

Response by SGT Marissa Baldwin made May 11 at 2023 3:40 AM

SGT Marissa Baldwin — Thu, 11 May 2023 03:40:13 -0400

In order to maintain my mental health, I have not only completed many sessions of EMDR, I've learned to talk more and be open about my mental health. I stopped trying to do things on my own so much and really learn to seek help. I've also gotten involved in women's LTC courses, self defense courses and situation awareness courses. I've used what I've learned and experienced in the military to help women understand how to defend themselves and put all my past trauma into good use.

Response by SPC Anthony Beard made May 11 at 2023 3:49 AM

SPC Anthony Beard — Thu, 11 May 2023 03:49:01 -0400

I maintain and improve my mental health by activating all of the elements of creation that is possible and using it as medicine to help myself and allow me to help others. This means using food, nature and exercise as medicine, embracing each moment to absorb the healing energy from those experiences; I use relationships with humans and animals to help heal my mental state of being by being the best version of myself and helping others be the best version of themselves. I am a work in progress, and so is the process. Thank you. ❤️‍

Response by SP5 Robert Mermelstein made May 11 at 2023 4:40 AM

SP5 Robert Mermelstein — Thu, 11 May 2023 04:40:00 -0400

I volunteer my time as a public range safety officer, in addition to my immersion in a lifelong hobby. A great deal of reading, both non-fiction and fiction. Staying up to date daily on local and global current events.

Response by CPL Rose Billington made May 11 at 2023 4:45 AM

CPL Rose Billington — Thu, 11 May 2023 04:45:16 -0400

Often, I have to recognize if I'm allowing a bad minute to become a bad hour, to become a bad day. Taking a moment to really think about your thought patterns and flipping the mental switch from "problem" to "opportunity" helps me get through challenging moments and continue to provide service to those I lead.

Response by AN Daniel Thompson made May 11 at 2023 4:57 AM

AN Daniel Thompson — Thu, 11 May 2023 04:57:03 -0400

First I pray to God and ask him to give me the strength and wisdy to accept the things I can not change and the courage to fix the things I can. Then I speak with my lovely wife that is my support,about anything and everything.God, Family is the key!

Response by SGT Scott Mason made May 11 at 2023 5:07 AM

SGT Scott Mason — Thu, 11 May 2023 05:07:53 -0400

Scott Mason,
I have Faith and belief in God. The same God that our great country was established on, by our first President George Washington. After a TBI in 1992 I started coming to our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. It has been a long journey but Jesus has led me on the straight and narrow path. I pray the God of our country will bless us and forgive us in All things we have committed against him. He has blessed us as a Nation and people. God bless all my brothers and sisters that defend our country. Lord I pray you lead our government and leaders in your will and your ways. God bless the U.S.A.

Response by SPC Andy Diaz made May 11 at 2023 5:10 AM

SPC Andy Diaz — Thu, 11 May 2023 05:10:09 -0400

From my personal perspective, taking care of my mental health is one of the best things I can do for myself. I find joy in practicing mindfulness, whether it's through meditation or yoga. These practices help me to feel more centered, peaceful, and in touch with my inner self. Additionally, eating a balanced and nutritious diet makes me feel more energized, focused, and happy.

I also prioritize getting enough sleep each night, which helps me to wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead. Connecting with friends and family, as well as seeking support from a therapist when I need it, has also been incredibly rewarding. I feel grateful for the strong social support network that I have, and I cherish the moments I spend with loved ones. By making these practices a regular part of my life, I've been able to experience many positive changes in my mental health, including reduced stress and anxiety, improved mood, and greater resilience.

Response by SGT Carlos Herrera made May 11 at 2023 5:29 AM

SGT Carlos Herrera — Thu, 11 May 2023 05:29:51 -0400

TBH the government has me in purgatory, I use to work out physically and mentally, never really have applied the spiritual side without a 3rd party being present.

-gods bless America

Response by Cpl David Heinrich made May 11 at 2023 5:44 AM

Cpl David Heinrich — Thu, 11 May 2023 05:44:52 -0400

CBT and mindfulness, are part of better quality ways of treatment for PTSD, and it's symptoms.

Response by SPC Parvin Daneshvar made May 11 at 2023 6:07 AM

SPC Parvin Daneshvar — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:07:15 -0400

I run the bridge

Response by Lissa Koffler made May 11 at 2023 6:21 AM

Lissa Koffler — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:21:56 -0400

Sadly medication was just as bad as dealing with the PTSD. I knew I had do figure something out for my husband so I started rabbit trailing gut health and how it has a direct effect on mental health. Dehydration plays a huge factor into his issues so making sure he drinks half his body weight in water daily to a good trebiotic. We have also started learning how to read labels to feed our gut good things. Poor gut health directly affects mental health. Also drinking alcohol spikes his cortisol so he is careful o Ot to have a beer here and there. We also try to have monthly couple massages to help keep us both relaxed and worked out all the tension.

Response by SSgt Robert Williams made May 11 at 2023 6:23 AM

SSgt Robert Williams — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:23:14 -0400

The first thing I do in the mornings is spend time reading the bible or at least a biblical devotion. That's how I start every day.

Response by PO2 Jim Beall made May 11 at 2023 6:37 AM

PO2 Jim Beall — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:37:15 -0400

Exercise. Softball in the winter, pickleball the rest of the year. And lots of walking

Response by SPC Angel Jade Alvis made May 11 at 2023 6:37 AM

SPC Angel Jade Alvis — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:37:29 -0400

I have PTSD, major depression, disorder, Social anxiety, and mild agoraphobia. What helps me through it all is my support person which is my husband. My husband helps me cope day by day. You should have a support line. A person or group that you can turn to when you need help to make it through each day someone you can turn to to talk to when you need support. Whether it be a family member, a friend, a support group, or therapist. You can’t do this alone.

Response by TSgt Paul Benson made May 11 at 2023 6:51 AM

TSgt Paul Benson — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:51:32 -0400

Stay focused on helping others improve their living conditions and by keeping my eyes on the goal of serving God. Keeping my mind occupied and keeping my body healthy. I volunteer in our church's benevolence program providing household needs when all is lost.

Response by SPC D Kelly made May 11 at 2023 6:55 AM

SPC D Kelly — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:55:22 -0400

I try to maintain balance in my life; between work and fun, with what I eat, self care and giving to others. I find that frequently pausing and asking myself, "what do I really need right now" (mindfulness) helps. And remembering to not beat myself up over the times when I forget to do this.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 7:03 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:03:32 -0400

I pray, read Scripture daily and assemble to worship on the first day of the week and between times to focus on God and others, not just myself.

Response by SPC Angela Parr made May 11 at 2023 7:03 AM

SPC Angela Parr — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:03:45 -0400

Eat right, exercise, read and therapy.

Response by Lisa Benni made May 11 at 2023 7:10 AM

Lisa Benni — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:10:16 -0400

Anything in nature!

Response by SrA Earl Cummings made May 11 at 2023 7:11 AM

SrA Earl Cummings — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:11:45 -0400

My wife and I serrated a nonprofit titled, SurfariPals.org. We teach children many of the same principles, values, and good character skills I learned during my time serving in the U.S. Air Force. We even have a character that teaches military respect.

‘Ten-hut & Surf’s Up!

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 7:13 AM

PO1 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:13:03 -0400

Listen to Christian music- the lyrics remind me I'm not alone in my struggles.

Response by SGT Justin Lilley made May 11 at 2023 7:14 AM

SGT Justin Lilley — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:14:37 -0400

I break-out my guitar and write, it helps me deal with what's on my mind at the moment and helps to put things into perspective. It's constructive, funny said but honestly it helps me get out of my own head, it works like a reset on my brain, I can't live without it!

Response by CPL Danielle Vinson made May 11 at 2023 7:17 AM

CPL Danielle Vinson — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:17:30 -0400

To maintain my mental health aside from taking my prescribed medications, I attend my therapy sessions. I also like to read and participate in a Bible study. I am also a Children's Pastor and that brings me great joy.

Response by SA Marcelo Reyna made May 11 at 2023 7:25 AM

SA Marcelo Reyna — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:25:43 -0400

I maintain my mental health by attending the most important appointments of my life with the most amazing Psychiatrist Dr. Billie and working on my PTSD.

Response by SCPO Jack Carlsen made May 11 at 2023 7:30 AM

SCPO Jack Carlsen — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:30:42 -0400

I try to take time for me (actually wrote it down on January 1st). I stay busy doing things I like to do outside of work. I do a little Mindfulness meditation once in awhile and make sure to take time to be "in the moment". Getaway WITH my wife when we get a chance and spend as much time as I can with my grandsons.

Response by PFC Scott Mauder made May 11 at 2023 7:39 AM

PFC Scott Mauder — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:39:33 -0400

Relax on our boat with a drink in hand!!!

Response by CPO Reginald Hughes made May 11 at 2023 7:43 AM

CPO Reginald Hughes — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:43:43 -0400

I play lots of different types of word games. It helps me to keep my mind focused, and not let me dwell on past or current issues.

Response by CAPT Jay Seligman made May 11 at 2023 7:44 AM

CAPT Jay Seligman — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:44:59 -0400

Go for a walk and observe nature.

Response by SPC Bobby Roby made May 11 at 2023 7:47 AM

SPC Bobby Roby — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:47:19 -0400

Some things I do to maintain or improve my mental health is keeping a eye out for "in the moment" situations. I believe that when burdens pile up the stress or anxiety and sneak up on oneself "in the moment" and kind of off guard. Some tips to maintain and improve are: 1. Pause 2. inventory 3. Take yourself out of the moment. When we pause we save whatever was going to roll off of our tongue and use other words to make the situation seem less overwhelming. When we take inventory we can feel how our bodies are feeling and it is important to lower and relax your shoulders to feel less stress and to lower the tension. When we take ourselves out of the moment; good practice is to look at something like a picture of a family member, a slogan we find at our desk, or keep something that has a calming smell to it near by like herbs or mint. We have to live for the moment but learn in the moment too.

Response by MSgt Linda Hagen made May 11 at 2023 8:10 AM

MSgt Linda Hagen — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:10:05 -0400

To maintain my mental health I ride my bike or walk in the park. I avoid soda drinks and eat a low carb diet.

Response by 2LT Suzanne Foster made May 11 at 2023 8:20 AM

2LT Suzanne Foster — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:20:15 -0400

When I'm feelimg down I call a supportive friend, go for a walk, work in my garden, do self care activities, pray-pray-pray, cry when I need to and most important I recognize all of the blessings in my life and focus on being grateful for those blessings.

Response by SFC Ryan West made May 11 at 2023 8:22 AM

SFC Ryan West — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:22:54 -0400

K9sforwarriors.org

Response by SPC Carlton Phelps made May 11 at 2023 8:30 AM

SPC Carlton Phelps — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:30:41 -0400

With the help of my wife and my mental health worker, I have developed a schedule for my time.
I have learned over the years that I have to get away from all communication and TV.
I take walks in our woodland paks, take time fishing and just kayaking. I do these activities alone so I can work out what may be bothering me. My mental health worker is always availed to me and that is a large part of my comfort level.

Response by TSgt Steven Groff made May 11 at 2023 8:36 AM

TSgt Steven Groff — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:36:12 -0400

volunteer at Veterans Moving Foward program, excersise and medication/meditation.

Response by SR Bryce Brown made May 11 at 2023 8:38 AM

SR Bryce Brown — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:38:41 -0400

Hang in there

Response by LTC Leslie Lee made May 11 at 2023 8:40 AM

LTC Leslie Lee — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:40:20 -0400

Simple. Consistent exercise. At 61, it is a little harder than it used to be, but long walks allow for a lot of thinking.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 8:52 AM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 08:52:47 -0400

I read spiritual literature, meditate in silence, and pray. I will try to go on longer runs with beautiful scenery. I spend unhurried time with friends and family. I try to clean my kitchen and living room every night for a fresh start each day.

Response by SSG Vincent Fraser made May 11 at 2023 9:04 AM

SSG Vincent Fraser — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:04:27 -0400

I've been in the military for nearly 23 years (combined Active Duty and National Guard) and in law enforcement for 30. Here are some of things that have helped me maintain my emotional and mental well being:
1. Acceptance.
Accepting the things I can change and accepting the things I can't, and knowing the difference between the two. Not everything can go our way. Sometimes life throws us that irrevocable curve ball. That's the way it is. This is not necessarily a bad thing. We must chuck it up to experience and the gaining of new knowledge. We must learn from it.
2. Mental hygiene days.
Everybody often (for me, it was every 3 or 4 months) I took off from work 2 or 3 days. I did so to "chill out". Relax at home,ounce around, read, watch TV, spend time with the family. My work has always been high pressure, action oriented. I often saw and dealt with things that the average Joe and Jane civillians would never have to. So I would break from the job periodically, spend "me" time.
3. Work and me are separate.
We wear many hats in life. Me, for example: Father, husband, brother, friend, boss, subordinate, etc. That "hat" I wore at work stay on the hat racj when I leave work. My job was often intense. I was a professional Soldier, been to war, served in combat. I was a law enforcement officer, often thrusted into situations that were emotionally impact full. But at the end of the day, when all was said and down and it was time to "clock out", I left it at the job. What happens on the job, stays on the job. Thats why it's called a job. I put on my favorite music on the drive home and relax, putting the day behind me.

The bottom line is this: life is full of ups and downs, twists and turns, bumps in the road, and sometimes obstacles. That's OK. That's life. We must learn to navigate, learn that with the good sometimes comes the bad, accept that a plow on through. Become unstoppable. Embrace that mindset. Fall 9 times, rise 10. Never give up.

Response by SPC Adam Burling made May 11 at 2023 9:05 AM

SPC Adam Burling — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:05:12 -0400

I work in my local VA Healthcare System and mentor new Service Dog handlers with Patriot Assistance Dogs from Detroit Lakes, MN. I have a Service Dog, Miss Molly who has saved my life. I received her nearly 3 years ago, and since getting her, have had the privilege of mentoring 3 Veterans as they entered this new phase of their lives. At the VA, I work as an Advanced Medical Support Assistant in the Primary Care/Mental Health Integration department. We work with Veterans facing many challenges in their life that fall somewhere between what their primary care provider and mental health can provide. Being able to tell the Veterans when they call in that I am a Veteran myself, it seems to help them accept the services we have when I say that I have my demons too and use the services. It seems to me that they are more apt to join in, knowing that they won't be seen as weak by others for asking for help. It is an honor and a privilege to be on both sides of my desk as I can empathize with the often "hurry up and wait" scenarios that can be just as common in the healthcare setting as in military service. I am also able to more easily explain why we can't simply just "whatever" they want and to put it into words and jargon that they understand.

Response by SSG Timothy Post made May 11 at 2023 9:05 AM

SSG Timothy Post — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:05:29 -0400

Eating right is one of the first steps. When you eat horrible fast food(junk food) mostly, you can create brain fog that makes PTSD or depression worse. Exercise is also a must. Only have legs? Only have arms? You can still exercise. Excuses are the death of moving forward.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 9:23 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:23:27 -0400

I exercise and read inspiring stories either in books or online. I also volunteer in my community. That coupled with spending time around positive people helps me improve and maintain my mental health.

Response by MAJ Phil Norman made May 11 at 2023 9:23 AM

MAJ Phil Norman — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:23:39 -0400

To maintain my mental health I do the following: stay physically active (golf, walking, gym, exercise at home). I also try to play games on the computer that make you think (various solitary games). I'm not afraid to try new things (VA cooking class, learning to use a pellet grill, etc). I watch my diet and try to stay healthy and weight conscious. I do my best not to get upset by the small things ( or even some bigger things). Remember, "Everything will work out."

Response by PO3 Laurie Washburn made May 11 at 2023 9:31 AM

PO3 Laurie Washburn — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:31:25 -0400

I believe mental health come from a good life balance of work, home, food, friends and activities. The challenge is in how we react to what happens in our lives, that is what effects our peace of mind. I always ask myself how important is it? Thus, what to give my time and attention. The answer to this question directs my power to the important things, and allows me to let go of the not so important things.

Response by MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 9:53 AM

MSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:53:59 -0400

I like to walk in the woods and reconnect with nature. Wehn I'm out and about all my problems just fade away. I know that sound cliche' but it is 100% true.
It also helps to take my camera and take lots of photos. then I can download them to my computer so when I get stressed at work, I can pull them up and remember the amazing things I saw on my hikes

Response by PO2 Lore W made May 11 at 2023 9:59 AM

PO2 Lore W — Thu, 11 May 2023 09:59:01 -0400

There are many small things I do and teach my kids to do that improve and maintain mental health. It range from mindfulness throughout the day for others and for myself, mini meditations to re-fresh my brain (meditation helps train the mind from wandering/ ADHD habits and reduces sensory overload). Meditation also literally helps to heal your mitochondria, improving mood and energy.

Aiming for quality relationships and purposely appreciating the little things that bring joy to life. Making a positive change in my community through small acts of kindness and always looking for ways to spend my time that inspire me/ make me feel "on purpose."

FOOD, sleep and movement are the foundation for supporting mental health! I'm a certified health coach. Food, sleep and movement affects our micro-biome. Everything we expose our body to is information. That information can support us or be supportive. Food is information. What we feed those billions of micro-organisms determines which nutrients are available to us, which has a domino effect on our cellular ability to convert food to energy/ metabolism, hormone production (mood), provides the necessary components to repair damaged tissue, and more. Where our food is grown/ the micro-biome of the dirt impacts the nutrient density of the food grown in it.

We give thanks for the food we eat and eat it free of distractions. When my kids and I eat gratefully and grounded, the food nourishes us fully...mentally, emotionally and physically.

Response by CPL Corrine Busby made May 11 at 2023 10:01 AM

CPL Corrine Busby — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:01:54 -0400

I enjoy being with family, they are my rock. I also garden, vegetable and flower gardens. I plant enough food for not just my family but to give to my neighbors in the neighborhood.

Response by SPC Ashley Howell made May 11 at 2023 10:02 AM

SPC Ashley Howell — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:02:13 -0400

I go to therapy regularly and check in with myself daily. Exercise has been a great tool for me. I like to lift and go on long walks with my dogs.

Response by Sharon Garcia made May 11 at 2023 10:04 AM

Sharon Garcia — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:04:35 -0400

I retired as a research psychologist while in the government and am also a licensed mental health counselor. Using my research skills, I consult with and participate by writing research proposals to the VA on issues related to preventing suicide among our veterans and active-duty military. As a counselor, I have taught aspiring counseling students at the graduate level, most of whom were veterans. Many have gone on to become licensed and now work either directly for the VA or have a large veteran clientele. I come from a rich family heritage of military service in every branch. We have and continue to serve our fellow veterans and active-duty in any way we can. Though we may have and still do struggle with our own mental health issues, our lives are enriched know that we belong to a "band of brothers and sisters," that can never be left behind. It is a bond that never can be broken. Helping them, helps ourselves.

Response by SFC Timothy Beaton made May 11 at 2023 10:29 AM

SFC Timothy Beaton — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:29:12 -0400

I have found that thru Mindfulness and Guided Meditation practices before and during Yoga, I can find inner peace and Spiritual strength. This allows me to be a better friend, son, father, brother, and uncle.

Response by Cpl Nathan Rogers made May 11 at 2023 10:30 AM

Cpl Nathan Rogers — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:30:04 -0400

I often spend time outside, whether its just a walk or as trivial as leaving the house. Listening to music is always nice, and reading as well. When these don't work, I usually try to do something rigorous (whether it's physically or mentally). Usually it helps get my mind off things, if that's whats needed. Also sometimes just talking to someone can do wonders for me, as I tend to live inside my head.

Response by Cpl Nathan Rogers made May 11 at 2023 10:31 AM

Cpl Nathan Rogers — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:31:02 -0400

I like to work on things, take a walk, or just listen to music

Response by MAJ Brian Burton made May 11 at 2023 10:32 AM

MAJ Brian Burton — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:32:41 -0400

Gardening & fishing

Response by SSgt Lisa J. Markland made May 11 at 2023 10:40 AM

SSgt Lisa J. Markland — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:40:07 -0400

I make sure that every single day I leave time to laugh and smile at something, and I try to always view my cup as 3/4 full (even if a little spills out, there’s still plenty left). Giving as a community volunteer, and knowing I am positively impacting the lives of others, always leaves me feeling motivated and enriched.

Response by PO1 Daniel Wowak made May 11 at 2023 10:54 AM

PO1 Daniel Wowak — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:54:56 -0400

I exercise regularly and I go to church regularly. I also work at my church as a lector.

Response by LCpl Steve Smargon made May 11 at 2023 10:55 AM

LCpl Steve Smargon — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:55:06 -0400

Since 2007, I have been a professional stand-up comedian. I started by taking a class that was offered by a former writer for the Tonight Show w/Jay Leno. I like to joke that I talk about the same things I talked about with a therapist, except now I get paid for it instead.

Response by SPC Thomas Perrigo made May 11 at 2023 10:57 AM

SPC Thomas Perrigo — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:57:37 -0400

I used to commit every last minute to working just to have focus. I still work but I'm learning to live a little. God, Family, Country (work), and video games. I spend a bit of time in the online streamer communities and communicate with anyone about anything. It still can be incredibly stressful but learning to let go is allowing me to breathe a bit. Live, Love, Laugh (and work on loving and laughing at myself)

Response by LCpl Steve Smargon made May 11 at 2023 10:59 AM

LCpl Steve Smargon — Thu, 11 May 2023 10:59:08 -0400

Since 2007, I have been a professional stand-up comedian. I started off by taking a comedy class taught by a former writer for the Tonight Show w/Jay Leno. I like to joke that I get on stage and talk about the same things I used to discuss with a therapist except now I'm the one that gets paid for it.

Response by SPC John Fortune made May 11 at 2023 11:01 AM

SPC John Fortune — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:01:31 -0400

Work

Response by PO1 Charles Macdonald made May 11 at 2023 11:03 AM

PO1 Charles Macdonald — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:03:08 -0400

Vegetarian diet, lifting weights and exercise. Never drugs or alcohol, caffeine or cigarettes. Keeping a balanced equilibrium knowing all things pass and tomorrow is another day.

Response by SSgt George Sacarakis made May 11 at 2023 11:03 AM

SSgt George Sacarakis — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:03:17 -0400

I walk and read the bible. Faith and exercise keeps from decomposing altogether. We all need help in some form.

Response by SPC Jason Crafton made May 11 at 2023 11:04 AM

SPC Jason Crafton — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:04:33 -0400

What helps with my mental health is to make a difference in other peoples lives in my community. This is why I became a teacher. To be able to make a difference in the lives of our future generations makes me feel like I can continue what I did in the military and do it on a local level. This creates a unique opportunity to train, and equip others as the Army did for me so that when they get older hopefully they can become more productive members of our society.

Response by SSgt Erica Carter made May 11 at 2023 11:27 AM

SSgt Erica Carter — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:27:38 -0400

Working on a computer from home has me sitting for long hours. To decompress, I manage the yardwork at my house (mowing, flowers, power washing, etc.). It gets me outside, gets me moving, and gives me a sense of pride in something outside of the daily grind. Cheers to the mental clarity I have the following day!

Response by CPL Carroll Triplett made May 11 at 2023 11:37 AM

CPL Carroll Triplett — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:37:15 -0400

I make sure I take my meds like I should. I try to get out and about and try my best to associate with other people and to get fresh air and sun shine to help lift me up.

Response by PO2 Jennifer Proffer made May 11 at 2023 11:45 AM

PO2 Jennifer Proffer — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:45:06 -0400

I suffer from Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. For me, I have had to balance all aspects of my life and I am the happiest I have ever been! I run, do yoga, read my Bible, go to church, hike with the dogs, spend time with my friend and family, and took the steps to get an actual mental health screening with the VA. I have now been on the right medicines for over two years. These combines with life style changes have changed my relationships, parenting, marriage, and have made me just happy in my own skin everyday. The other extremely important thing I have changed is that when I feel depression starting on, I immediately ask my friends to get together. Whether it is to hike or just for coffee, it pulls me up before I slip down!

Response by Lt Col Christopher Farr made May 11 at 2023 11:59 AM

Lt Col Christopher Farr — Thu, 11 May 2023 11:59:25 -0400

1. Eat right. 2. Exercise. 3. Sleep. 4. Work hard and have a purpose. 5. Play hard and have interests and hobbies that allow me to rest.

Response by SPC Kenneth Harants made May 11 at 2023 12:05 PM

SPC Kenneth Harants — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:05:38 -0400

Keep active.

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 12:13 PM

Capt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:13:38 -0400

I started seeing a therapist last year. It was on and off for years but I didn't know it takes time to find the right one that works well with you. So after encouragement from my wife I kept searching and found one that I was more open to speak with.

Response by SPC Alfonso Ortiz made May 11 at 2023 12:21 PM

SPC Alfonso Ortiz — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:21:40 -0400

I have a morning routine, prayer, journaling, AA meeting, all done by 7am. I see a therapist twice a month, i keep in contact with peers in recovery. I walk about 20 miles a week. I show gratitude.

Response by LCpl Dana Jensen made May 11 at 2023 12:25 PM

LCpl Dana Jensen — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:25:53 -0400

I am still trying to figure this out. I have a dog and she helps a lot. Everyone keeps saying that you need a support system, but it’s hard for me to trust anyone or believe that people care, so having a support system is virtually impossible for me. I have an opportunity to volunteer at a Marine mammal hospital if my schedule allows it, so I am excited about that. I also enjoy getting a massage or pedicure every few months.

Response by SP5 R Foote made May 11 at 2023 12:33 PM

SP5 R Foote — Thu, 11 May 2023 12:33:56 -0400

I try to find something good in everything. Look forward to what is to come and make plans instead of looking back.

Response by PO3 Elizabeth Perry made May 11 at 2023 1:02 PM

PO3 Elizabeth Perry — Thu, 11 May 2023 13:02:26 -0400

I attend a special program at the south east Louisiana veterans hospital called PRRC. Additinally I regularly attend yoga, tai chi and other welness related services on campus. I seekout and soundbaths, yoga,reiki exerise programs in the area and while traveling. I attend services and classes at Unity of New Orleans where I also I receive pastoral council with our lead minister I travel to attend retreats and conferences throughout the year based on spiritualexperienceand seeing friends from aroundthe world. I especially enjoy cooking my own food with prayer and meditation which helps me connect to the greater world of farm to table mentality. By utilizing mindfulness skills while eating it helps me not over eat. I learned these skills at DBT training in mental health clinic as well. I enjoy gardening, spend times outdoors and spend time with my close friends. I seek out activities on Facebook to get in the community especially art focused and the many parade celebrations in New Orleans. I work on art on my own in my time to express what cannot be expressed in words. Finally I live in an apartment that helps me with self care such as a large soaking tub, fireplace, dishwasher and walking trails with ponds, swimming pools that attract a lot of wildlife.

Response by SSG Harris Thayer made May 11 at 2023 1:28 PM

SSG Harris Thayer — Thu, 11 May 2023 13:28:32 -0400

I use CYCLING as my mental health stabilizer as well as my physical benefactor. I see things that I miss while driving and I get the benefit of relaxation with cardio benefits. And at 81 that is what I need.

Response by PO2 Kevia Shepard made May 11 at 2023 1:40 PM

PO2 Kevia Shepard — Thu, 11 May 2023 13:40:59 -0400

I host monthly "Girlz Day In" events in my home for women (vets & non-vets) to have a safe space to discuss whatever they want. Family, work, personal lives, trauma--whatever they want. We discuss topics while journaling, planning (think paper planner like Happy Planner), utilizing vision boards, budgeting, entrepreneurship, etc. We bond over food & drinks and offer each other encouraging advice & support. The women look forward to this event each month & it's growing. Soon, I may have to move it to a local community center when my home (a small cottage style TH) gets too small. Growth is great and I am so happy that women trust me & feel safe in my home to confide in our group.

Response by AN Peter Christensen made May 11 at 2023 1:49 PM

AN Peter Christensen — Thu, 11 May 2023 13:49:16 -0400

For me, it is a combination of things I take vitamins D and B and make sure to spend time with my boy clancy during the winter and gloomy days and when the weather is nice I make it a point to walk
him almost every day and go for car rides also my wife helps too

Response by A1C Virginia Johnson made May 11 at 2023 1:58 PM

A1C Virginia Johnson — Thu, 11 May 2023 13:58:33 -0400

I maintain or improve my mental health by attending a class called Moving Beyond Trama.

Response by PO1 Richard Thompson made May 11 at 2023 1:59 PM

PO1 Richard Thompson — Thu, 11 May 2023 13:59:36 -0400

I keep my mind busy by reading. I also keep myself busy by doing things I need to do , ie, cutting grass, weeding flower bed, trimming weeds, etc

Response by SSgt James Cash made May 11 at 2023 2:23 PM

SSgt James Cash — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:23:17 -0400

Family and friends are my most helpful when I need them. The best help for my mental health.

Response by GySgt Dawn Cherry made May 11 at 2023 2:29 PM

GySgt Dawn Cherry — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:29:04 -0400

I ask for help now when I need it and put my health first. For years I denied my own needs for those of my family, friends, Marines, and the Marine Corps as a whole. My mental health became something I would get to later, but later never came. I have a therapist now and I reach out to her whenever the shadows start to close in around me. I don't wait anymore.

Response by GySgt Dawn Cherry made May 11 at 2023 2:30 PM

GySgt Dawn Cherry — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:30:03 -0400

Response by Sgt Michael Sipes made May 11 at 2023 2:32 PM

Sgt Michael Sipes — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:32:19 -0400

I spent two years driving the DAV van over 500 miles per trip delivering disable Veterans from rural Arizona to the VA hospital in Phoenix, Arizona. Tending to needy Vets and sharing their stories was a major boost to my mental health. Unfortunately, my health no longer allow me to serve as a van driver but, I still meet with a group of my veteran friends for a weekly breakfast where we share uplifting conversation.

Response by Dixie Wooten made May 11 at 2023 3:13 PM

Dixie Wooten — Thu, 11 May 2023 15:13:57 -0400

I travel unlimited miles, view the most spectacular sights, prepare the most amazing meals, meet the most interesting people and sleep in my own bed each night. All this is accomplished through reading! Hats off to libraries!!

Response by Pvt Freddie Hartley made May 11 at 2023 4:06 PM

Pvt Freddie Hartley — Thu, 11 May 2023 16:06:25 -0400

I am writing for my father who has had several strokes, leaving him with a host of medical issues including vascular dementia. He had to learn to walk, talk, swallow, almost anything you do daily all over again. While, his speech started getting better, he continued for several years to struggle with putting sentences together. It's like knowing, in your head, what you want to say, but your mouth won't say it. While he is one of the very lucky ones, he regained roughly 70% of what he lost. He takes medications of course, but he has an excellent aide that helps him, encourages me, reminds me, and is constantly coming up with new ways to stimulate the brain. (Me) We play cards, color, do math problems, write song lyrics (because his handwriting is still terrible), and play dominos. We go for drives, and write down things we see, then alphabetize them. This is the hardest task for him. We count fake money that we made. She

I encourage him to read and do word searches, but he don't really. He's never liked either one. He no longer gets to cook by himself, but once a week or so, with my help he does. He has always loved to cook, so we always try to let him do things that dont involve knives or the stove. I know it is truly frustrating, to no longer be able to do things for yourself anymore, but I try to compromise and make thing simplified, so he is able to think things out for himself. We will watch game shows, that's his favorite thing to do. We talk about anything and everything. We do chair exercises, not just because he is physically limited to what he can do, but he hates exercising too. We kill flies, and count. I randomly come up with all sorts of stuff to make him think without realizing thats what we are doing. Then, there are days when we just need a break from everything, because he get anxious and angry sometimes. That's when we go fishing, (his absolute favorite past time.) or go visiting people. Sometimes we go to a movie or take my mom out to eat. With all the technology and information that is accessible these days, there's no telling what tomorrow will bring for us.

Response by CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton made May 11 at 2023 4:42 PM

CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton — Thu, 11 May 2023 16:42:19 -0400

What do I do to maintain or improve my mental health? First, I bore my wife with old, very old stories of my experiences, exploits, mishaps and other "Facts" of my life in the military. Sometimes I may even show her some old photos to impress upon her the seriousness of the discussion. To provide my wife some relief from these "war experiences and PTSD Flashback stories" I regularly for the past 15 years persistently attend weekly meetings at the Swansea, Illinois Veterans Center at 1300 Hours each Wednesday. This meeting of camaraderie, sharing of present and past life foibles and frustrations, current information presentations by staff, receiving comfort and support from other military combat veterans suffering from all recognized and unrecognized disabilities, has been a lifesaving place for me. I also get to meet new and younger members from later eras than my own. Surprisingly, I can hear and see myself in their life recitations. And as a last comment, I see and hear other veterans who have and are suffering from physical, medical and mental wartime inflicted injuries that bring in to focus my own frailties and helps me realize that I could be worse off than I am. Thank you all for your sacrifices!

Response by SGT Dawn Stamp made May 11 at 2023 5:11 PM

SGT Dawn Stamp — Thu, 11 May 2023 17:11:44 -0400

My main thing to maintain good mental health is to get outdoors every day, rain or shine. Love to witness the sunrise and sunset, and just breathe in the fresh air. I also strive to have positive interactions with others.

Response by SN Private RallyPoint Member made May 11 at 2023 5:20 PM

SN Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 11 May 2023 17:20:00 -0400

Working out, reading, outdoor activities.

Response by LTJG John Tuffy made May 11 at 2023 6:43 PM

LTJG John Tuffy — Thu, 11 May 2023 18:43:12 -0400

I keep my mind batteries at full charge by writing and "creating" every day and supplement that with a rigorous exercise program--at 84 years of age I exercise daily in a pool in spite of (or perhaps because of) bum hips and knees that restrict land mobility. Always keep the mind and body active.
John C. Tuffy
LTJG, USNR (1959-1962)
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Response by Capt Sylvia DeBorger made May 11 at 2023 7:12 PM

Capt Sylvia DeBorger — Thu, 11 May 2023 19:12:51 -0400

Not yet back to actually attending church services, but I faithfully attend them virtually via my computer. There always seems to be a special message there to help me through the coming week.

Response by SPC J Scholz made May 11 at 2023 7:26 PM

SPC J Scholz — Thu, 11 May 2023 19:26:31 -0400

Therapy, breathing exercises, and an emotion wheel to identify how I might be feeling.

Response by SPC Cheryl Haskell made May 11 at 2023 8:59 PM

SPC Cheryl Haskell — Thu, 11 May 2023 20:59:45 -0400

Clean eating, exercise, CBT.

Response by PO3 Gary Cook made May 11 at 2023 9:43 PM

PO3 Gary Cook — Thu, 11 May 2023 21:43:38 -0400

Walk my dog as much as I can.

Response by PO2 William Hillenbrand made May 11 at 2023 10:31 PM

PO2 William Hillenbrand — Thu, 11 May 2023 22:31:34 -0400

I do religious reading daily with my oldest son from the book "God Calling". It's great for me and my alcoholic son - who is now sober for 9 years.

Response by SPC Tom Thompson made May 12 at 2023 2:35 AM

SPC Tom Thompson — Fri, 12 May 2023 02:35:59 -0400

Stay away from the VA.

Response by PFC Gunther Mumpower made May 12 at 2023 5:07 AM

PFC Gunther Mumpower — Fri, 12 May 2023 05:07:49 -0400

I do a lot of Crossword Puzzles, plan and Build Boxes and different crafts in my Head.

Gunther James MUmpower

Response by PFC Rebecca Olson made May 12 at 2023 7:08 AM

PFC Rebecca Olson — Fri, 12 May 2023 07:08:30 -0400

When my mental health gets to me, I try to manage my time and leave "mental health days" for myself, especially on difficult weeks. I will usually go out to eat or just find something fun to do while taking a break from anything that was stressing me out. When my ptsd or depression gets bad enough, I will contact a friend that I trust to talk about it until I'm calm enough, then just take a break from whatever caused it to heighten. I also have an ESA that helps when I'm at home

Response by MSgt Bryan Grantham made May 12 at 2023 7:12 AM

MSgt Bryan Grantham — Fri, 12 May 2023 07:12:25 -0400

I WALK IN THE WOODS WITH NO ELECTRONICS WITH MY WIFE.

Response by SGT William Deak made May 12 at 2023 8:05 AM

SGT William Deak — Fri, 12 May 2023 08:05:37 -0400

Being a former Physical Ed. Teacher, now working for the VA at Bay Pines, I think the most important issue in improving and keeping healthy both mentally and Physically is HYDRATION. Without it you can't function at your peak in anything you do. William Deak

Response by PO1 Stephen Martinez made May 12 at 2023 11:51 AM

PO1 Stephen Martinez — Fri, 12 May 2023 11:51:50 -0400

I spend a lot of time juggling! It's a wonderful hobby that is portable, cheap, challenging, meditative, physical, and most importantly, fun. Pick up a basic set of 3 bean bags and you're pretty much all set!

Response by PO1 Chris S made May 12 at 2023 12:23 PM

PO1 Chris S — Fri, 12 May 2023 12:23:45 -0400

The key to maintaining my mental health is to slow life down. Take a minute to just be me. Listening to the sounds of my environment. Try to get it to move at a snail's pace. I perform mindfulness breathing and walking when I feel like I need a minute. For the breathing, I focus on a location across the room and slowly breathe in for a long three seconds and then exhale for a long three seconds. I try to stay in the moment and focus on the breathes. For the walking I take in all the feelings of each step as I walk across a room. From the bottom of my foot, to my leg and knee and up through my hips. I even focus on how my arm feels as it swings to the steps. Of course i will spend time with my family as that always seems to help. But sometimes I may just need to reflect on how good my life is. I will reflect on what it means to be a father and what it means to be a husband. I started listening to entire music albums with my oldest son every Friday after work and his school. We discuss each song and how it made us feel and what we liked or disliked about it. When I see his foot tapping to the beat it gives me serenity. And I wish and hope that there are others who are feeling the same way as I am.

Response by CPL Bill V made May 12 at 2023 12:24 PM

CPL Bill V — Fri, 12 May 2023 12:24:25 -0400

I enjoy doing things for other people. That way it take all of me to do it for others and I don't think of myself. Cause I love helping the less fortunate cause it makes me smile. You know the saying right a smile a day keep you happy and sane I think.

Response by PO1 Chris S made May 12 at 2023 1:10 PM

PO1 Chris S — Fri, 12 May 2023 13:10:48 -0400

Response by PO1 David Warnick made May 12 at 2023 5:00 PM

PO1 David Warnick — Fri, 12 May 2023 17:00:09 -0400

I practice yoga and yoga nidra meditation

Response by Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis made May 12 at 2023 5:52 PM

Lt Col Timothy Cassidy-Curtis — Fri, 12 May 2023 17:52:27 -0400

I try to consider what options I have available.

Response by LCpl Kenneth Bean made May 12 at 2023 6:40 PM

LCpl Kenneth Bean — Fri, 12 May 2023 18:40:49 -0400

I engage in hobbies that encourage self-expression and creativity. I also meditate, exercise, and spend time with my significant other. Joined the local chapter of the Marine Corps League a couple of years ago and enjoy the camaraderie.

Response by Sgt Casey Wilbanks made May 12 at 2023 7:30 PM

Sgt Casey Wilbanks — Fri, 12 May 2023 19:30:42 -0400

I write in my books. I have notebooks that I carry with me at all time and whenever I feel like something other good or not so good is going on at that very moment. I take out one of my notebooks and put it down on paper. This has truly helped me in so many way. My hope is that whoever reads this comment or any of the comments that they can use it and hopefully it will help them as well!! Gob bless you all!!!!!!

Response by PO2 Louis Seymour made May 13 at 2023 1:08 AM

PO2 Louis Seymour — Sat, 13 May 2023 01:08:46 -0400

Theres nothing that can be done, A local hospital closed there warm water therapy pool and filled it in for more billable treatment room. With the horrendous pain in all of my body extremety joint plus the Cervical and entire spine, I have only fentanyl and oxycodone to keep my alive now. There are two large, and largely empty clinics not too far away that could install a pool with 90F water and water exercise equipment that would fill up with veterans with a multitude of maladies that could be greatly helped with the warm water wokrout. Without it, my pain is through the roof and with my history of being abused as a kid, then in the Navy and finallly as a paramedic who saw too much horrible things. To answer the question, I fared very well during thye 14 years of warm water therapy. Now I have no help and everything is closing in on me. I'm holding it off as best as I can, but the PTSD is probably stalking me,

Response by PV2 Alex Sommerville made May 13 at 2023 6:17 AM

PV2 Alex Sommerville — Sat, 13 May 2023 06:17:36 -0400

I have been therapy for awhile and have had my ups and downs In the past three years I've gone from trying to bye a house and the seller backing out 7 days from closing to losing my job to living in a motel for 14 months to being completely homeless for the first time in my life. I'm 59 years old and I've worked all my life up until covid hit and my live changed so drastically that I didn't know what to do. I prayed alot. I've learned that the best way to approach life is on a day to bases .I look at thing as, can I change what is happening, if not then I don't worry about it because I can't change it . Now if I can then I look at it a try to do the dest I can do at that time. One of my therapist had told me if can't change it then don't try and don't worry about it, it just will frustrate you and upset you, try to change the things you can and it will make you better. I just won't people to know that there is help and not to listen to those people who say it in your head because it is in our heads and that is why we seek help. Thank you to all those out there helping use who need it

Response by PO3 Nathaniel Owen made May 13 at 2023 7:38 AM

PO3 Nathaniel Owen — Sat, 13 May 2023 07:38:01 -0400

Exercising is the absolute best thing to improve my mental health! I notice that I begin to feel depressed after going without it for too long. It doesn't even have to be too intense to significantly improve how I'm feeling. I have to keep moving!

Response by A1C Benjamin Cook made May 13 at 2023 8:03 AM

A1C Benjamin Cook — Sat, 13 May 2023 08:03:15 -0400

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy helps with reevaluating thoughts.

I also study Kabbalah which teaches tools like pausing, finding the blessing, asking what I’m supposed to learn, and trusting that the process is for the best.

I’ve also discovered many case studies of people who remember past lives in verified ways. If someone kills themself, they face similar situations the next time around except the situations are twice as hard. And I remember all the people I’d hurt by doing so. And just embrace the process.

And fully feel and notice my emotions so they pass.

And live as holistically healthy as possible.

Response by SrA Melissa Mcdonald made May 13 at 2023 8:27 AM

SrA Melissa Mcdonald — Sat, 13 May 2023 08:27:27 -0400

I go to the park and take walks along the nature trial. I feel that it improves my mood and resets all of the frustration I am having. I think fresh air and being away from crowded places allows your mind to rest and be at ease.

Response by S Emde made May 13 at 2023 10:09 AM

S Emde — Sat, 13 May 2023 10:09:27 -0400

I rest in a comfotable chair an listen to smoe smooth jazz (cable ch. 1843)

Response by Sue H made May 13 at 2023 10:15 AM

Sue H — Sat, 13 May 2023 10:15:40 -0400

I try to keep a positive mindset with each transition I go through especially through the moving process. These examples include working out, using Headspace, learning new hobbies, and volunteering my time in every community I live in. All of these activities and more have helped me maintain my mental health so I can be a better spouse and individual.

Response by Sue H made May 13 at 2023 10:17 AM

Sue H — Sat, 13 May 2023 10:17:14 -0400

Response by SSG Leticia Rodriguez made May 13 at 2023 11:11 AM

SSG Leticia Rodriguez — Sat, 13 May 2023 11:11:10 -0400

I maintain and improve my mental health by practicing daily mindful and holistic practices. It has become a lifestyle that allows me to perform and function from a place of serenity and kindness toward myself and others. I am a trauma-sensitive yoga instructor and volunteer to teach yoga to veterans in my community.

This lifestyle helped me immensely during my military career, allowing me to respond rather than react. Some of my favorite mindful practices are yoga, meditation, journaling, reading, and any outdoor activity.
I'll encourage and invite anyone struggling to find peace within to try to add mindfulness practices to their day-to-day. You are not alone, and you are meant to be here.

Response by SPC Mary A Milan made May 13 at 2023 1:03 PM

SPC Mary A Milan — Sat, 13 May 2023 13:03:02 -0400

Whenever I start to feel stressed or overwhelmed, there are two things I do: On a daily basis, I take a bubble bath - I am completely alone, listening to music or watching whatever show I'm binging, very little chance of disturbance because everyone in my house knows that is MY TIME. The other thing I do is head for the ocean. I love to "play hookie" (aka take a sick/personal day) and head to the Keys (45 minutes away) and sit by the ocean. I might get into the water, but most of the time I don't. I find a bench or a table and I write my fiction or paint my landscapes. I always return home feeling so much better and refreshed.

Response by SFC Robert Bosma made May 13 at 2023 9:40 PM

SFC Robert Bosma — Sat, 13 May 2023 21:40:08 -0400

I was a combat medic in Vietnam in 1968, serving just outside Hue during TET the entire month of February. Consequently, many of the things I saw and did came home with me.
In 1990, I was encouraged to write about some of my most intense experiences. As a result, my writing was included in the book "Combat Medic-Vietnam," compiled by Craig Roberts. When the book was published, I visited high school Social Studies and History classes to read my chapter. The goal was to help students understand the tragic sacrifice of combat.
However, I gradually learned to manage many of my PTSD symptoms through reading to the students and answering their questions. My nightmares became less frequent, and I was becoming less anxious when around groups of people.
In 1997, I decided to spend my 50th birthday in Hue, Vietnam. My purpose was to superimpose combat memories with new, pleasant ones. I found Vietnam to be beautiful, peaceful, and populated by gentle, gracious people. I returned two years later, this time with my wife. We both learned to love the country and its people.
In 2005, a flood devastated a village north of Hue. We raised money and travelled again to Vietnam to help recovery efforts. It was the village I spent TET '68 in. The exercise became a wonderful replacement for my war-time memories in that place.
On subsequent visits, we continued to support needs in the Hue area. During a trip in 2015, we met a family whose ancestors were from the same village I was in during TET 1968. We "adopted" that family. Or perhaps they adopted us. One daughter was just graduating from college, and another was finishing high school. We decided to fund her desire to become a registered pharmacist with four years of college. Since then, their youngest - a boy - decided to study mechanical engineering. We are now helping him with tuition and housing.
We video chat or message with our Vietnam family daily. The oldest daughter now has a child, so we are now great-grandparents to a beautiful 6-month old boy.
The initial exposure through the book and classrooms, then the many trips to Vietnam, has done more to manage my chronic depression and PTSD than medicine and counselling could ever do. Frequent exposure is my method to manage psychological combat residue.

Response by SFC Denise Andrews made May 14 at 2023 7:35 AM

SFC Denise Andrews — Sun, 14 May 2023 07:35:17 -0400

SFC DENISE ANDREWS
I keep my Dr.'s appointments, take my medications , work in Emergency Department as a Registered Nurse taking care of other veterans and of course cuddle my Service Dog.

Response by Cpl Lekendrick Johnson made May 14 at 2023 8:19 AM

Cpl Lekendrick Johnson — Sun, 14 May 2023 08:19:55 -0400

Rally

Response by PVT Craig Hale made May 14 at 2023 11:59 AM

PVT Craig Hale — Sun, 14 May 2023 11:59:16 -0400

I walk, daily.
I've had several dozen surgeries & been diagnosed with a handful of chronic conditions, one of which is depression. I found that just going for a brief walk improved my outlook, so I started doing it daily. I'm up to 4 miles a day. I start in the early morning, just as the day's dawning. To walk at a leisurely pace & listen to the birds & watch the wildlife getting ready for another day has made a huge difference in how I perceive not only my own mental health, but my entire perception of life.

I HIGHLY recommend it to everyone, no matter their condition. Just being in the open air & looking around at something other than the same walls will change ones life. It costs nothing & takes only a small amount of time. It's certainly a worthwhile investment in ones mental health.

Response by SPC Rick Price made May 14 at 2023 12:40 PM

SPC Rick Price — Sun, 14 May 2023 12:40:52 -0400

One of my favorite topics:
Exercise
Meditatation
Therapy
Anxiety & Depression meds

Response by SPC Rick Price made May 14 at 2023 12:44 PM

SPC Rick Price — Sun, 14 May 2023 12:44:15 -0400

I forgot to add
I work hard on getting the best sleep I can

Response by PFC Danielle Credic made May 15 at 2023 12:23 AM

PFC Danielle Credic — Mon, 15 May 2023 00:23:44 -0400

I've learned that dealing with multiple mental health issues the best thing to do in time of need is to stop what I'm doing, breathe, and recenter my peace. I listen to happy music, light scented candles, and try to remember that what im going through are just feelings, and they are temporary.

Response by SPC Joe Oldham-Lanett made May 15 at 2023 8:30 AM

SPC Joe Oldham-Lanett — Mon, 15 May 2023 08:30:44 -0400

I try to stay in touch, with my old unit buddies as much as possible.

Response by 1LT Stacy Risco made May 15 at 2023 9:25 AM

1LT Stacy Risco — Mon, 15 May 2023 09:25:19 -0400

I enjoy getting outside and taking in the fresh air by walking. I find that some form of exercise helps with my mental health.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2023 10:15 AM

MSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 15 May 2023 10:15:36 -0400

I spend time out in nature hiking with my dog. I do breath work and be consciously present. I try not to think about work or other life stressors, but notice things going on around me in the moment.

Response by CPT Christopher Powell made May 15 at 2023 12:28 PM

CPT Christopher Powell — Mon, 15 May 2023 12:28:19 -0400

I take my family to the old family farm land in Oklahoma. It removes stress and allows us to be with one another with out distractions. Work and family can stress you out, so I find time just about every month to take the kids and wife there.

Response by Laniesha Jackson made May 15 at 2023 1:53 PM

Laniesha Jackson — Mon, 15 May 2023 13:53:03 -0400

I personally/directly use coping techniques for anxiety and stress to maintain a healthy mental state (e.g., breathing, meditating, and working out). It also helps listening to soothing instrumentals and frequencies better equipped to heal in addition to seeing my therapist bi-weekly. I have so much peace when I pray and leave all my burdens with my Creator above, and by and by I see the progress. It helps me to relax with journaling, reading books, investing in myself getting monthly pedicures or massages, and keeping my mind off what bothers me by focusing on others - so working at the VA, I frequently visit with a vet to help my social worker friends when they lament to me about the vets they're most concerned about who could use the extra support. All of these things have improved my both my mental and consequently my physical health over the last 5 years working as a civilian for our federal governement.

Response by SSgt Crystal Hanna made May 15 at 2023 2:33 PM

SSgt Crystal Hanna — Mon, 15 May 2023 14:33:29 -0400

I read. I find a really great romance novel that has a adventure, fighting, romance, and intrigue. I then grab a cup of my favorite tea and a blanket; then let the adventure begin. I can get lost for hours in a good book.

Response by PO3 Eric Sample made May 15 at 2023 9:23 PM

PO3 Eric Sample — Mon, 15 May 2023 21:23:47 -0400

Now that I am in a wheelchair can I get some help with care of my home, like taking out the trash and keeping the kitchen clean a couple of times a week? My wife has cancer and is very limited in what she can do!

Response by PO1 Dori Lowham made May 15 at 2023 10:41 PM

PO1 Dori Lowham — Mon, 15 May 2023 22:41:18 -0400

I maintain a well balanced diet, sleep 7 hours every night, stay happy in my home life and work life, dance in the rain, and laugh heartily at myself when I make a mistake, and laugh with others when the opportunity arises. It keeps me focused and stable.

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2023 12:58 AM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 May 2023 00:58:46 -0400

I work on my Harley Davidson motorcycle at night when everybody else is sleeping because I try to be involved with the family during the day but I find that when I’m in the garage without worrying about family time I find my peace and quiet

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2023 1:28 AM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 May 2023 01:28:23 -0400

I work and clean my motorcycle after every one is sleeping

Response by A1C Private RallyPoint Member made May 16 at 2023 1:36 AM

A1C Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 16 May 2023 01:36:05 -0400

Response by MSgt Aaron Dominique made May 16 at 2023 1:12 PM

MSgt Aaron Dominique — Tue, 16 May 2023 13:12:33 -0400

I like to want through my farm and sit and watch my goats, chicken, geese, turkey, and dogs go about their business. The animals remind me how to be resilient. The goats always know they can find another patch of grass to munch. The birds like the rain the water just runs off their backs as they wait for the worms to surface.

Response by Christy Davis made May 17 at 2023 2:59 AM

Christy Davis — Wed, 17 May 2023 02:59:27 -0400

My husband has been a veteran for ten years this coming October, there have been an enormous amount of struggle since the first day becoming a veteran. Most days I feel invisible however I found that volunteering gives me purpose. I volunteered the 8 years he was active duty for whatever military base we were stationed at and for the past ten years being a veterans spouse. For me volunteering gives me the chance to give back which helps to improve my mental health by giving me purpose outside of being a mom and a veterans spouse. Also I recently began walking with my son who is about to graduate high school 2 to 3 times per week for at least 30 min. We just talk about whatever comes into our heads , we laugh and just talk. I feel my mental health improving with every walk and crave the next chance to walk with him. We just enjoy our surrounds in as many ways and we can. I was in despair and grieving and I found that volunteering and increasing physical activity really has helped my overall well being by showing me I am important and do still have a purpose even though my husband is a veteran.

Response by SGM Art Hudson made May 17 at 2023 7:55 AM

SGM Art Hudson — Wed, 17 May 2023 07:55:11 -0400

I stay busy with my church, hobbies, friends, family.

Response by SrA Tina Weaver made May 17 at 2023 4:21 PM

SrA Tina Weaver — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:21:29 -0400

I am involved in a program called PRRC through the VA and attend multiple classes. Some teach coping skills such as setting healthy boundaries and others teach recreation skills such as crochet. It is important for me to attend these classes with other veterans who have mental illness because we understand and accept each other. We help to build one another up and celebrate our growth together.

Response by SSG Archie Martinez made May 17 at 2023 6:00 PM

SSG Archie Martinez — Wed, 17 May 2023 18:00:59 -0400

How I maintain or improve upon my mental health is two-fold. I need to surround myself at work and away from work with people who share a common interest in representing the best versions of themselves. And, most importantly, I need a higher power or space to decompress. I've been in situations where one or the other were not in sync and it required me to make life changing decisions (i.e. new job or new relationships).

Response by Cpl Alecxis Leon made May 17 at 2023 6:11 PM

Cpl Alecxis Leon — Wed, 17 May 2023 18:11:39 -0400

To maintain or improve my mental health I enjoy hitting the gym. I believe physical exercise is essential in relieving stress and anxiety. Another thing I do to maintain or improve my mental health is honor my deceased brothers in arms by living a clean drug free and alcohol-free life for them.

Response by SGT Syreeta Norman made May 17 at 2023 8:15 PM

SGT Syreeta Norman — Wed, 17 May 2023 20:15:50 -0400

I maintain healthy relationships and spend time reading my bible/prayer

Response by SPC Michelle Retallic made May 19 at 2023 9:16 PM

SPC Michelle Retallic — Fri, 19 May 2023 21:16:27 -0400

I take my dog on at least two walks every day.

Response by LCpl Sidney Green made May 23 at 2023 11:42 AM

LCpl Sidney Green — Tue, 23 May 2023 11:42:21 -0400

That's easy, I exercise regularly. I do believe in the motto: strong body, strong mind." I go online everyday and try to impart some knowledge, while learn something new myself. That help keep my mind sharp and stable.

In addition, I try to watch my diet, but I'm not nearly as good at that as I should be. Poor nutrition can significantly affect your mental health as well as your physical health. Not to mention all the non-food additives put in our food products these days. But finding, selecting, and cooking all the right foods takes a lot of time and effort. Besides, grass-fed beef and free ranges chickens can be costly, so all too often I have to settle for something a bit less healthy.

Anyway, I take natural supplements which help with mental clarity, concentration and focus. Tryptophan and tyrosine, for example, are a great nature way to combat anxiety and depression.
I've also investigated a few nootropics, but so far, they haven been especially useful.

Response by MAJ Joe Pina made May 23 at 2023 5:40 PM

MAJ Joe Pina — Tue, 23 May 2023 17:40:30 -0400

I pray every night and morning giving thanks to the lord for clarity of thought.
I look for goodness and kindness in people no matter their age or religious practice or ethnicity or status in life.
I smile a lot and share positive words with those I have a chance to talk to.
I always say thanks and address people as sir or ma'am.
I strive to make a positive impression on all I meet.
I poke fun at myself to break the ice and hopefully get a smile in return.
I thank all veterans I meet and place my arm around them, when appropriate, and ask the Lord to bless them.
I take time to tune out the world and find inner peace.
Finally, I reflect on the love I feel for my family and friends and my comrades that have left "the area of operations".

Response by 1SG Joy Williams made May 24 at 2023 1:15 PM

1SG Joy Williams — Wed, 24 May 2023 13:15:47 -0400

What I do to maintain or improve my mental health is to consistently seek different options to cope with it. My social worker is instrumental in offering various suggestions that I aggressively research and try. Ninety percent of them are not beneficial for me. However, instead of giving up, like I used to do, I must say God and my grandchildren are the reasons why I am still here today. Because of them, my seven years of mental health concerns finally found something to help; Wounded Warrior Program. Attending events with fellow veterans has helped significantly. Talking with fellow veterans who understand why I tend to withdraw from time to time and not judge me for it is key. In return, I do the same for them. I am still not where I should be, but at least I am here today to tell my story.

Response by MSgt Cindy Kinnamon made May 24 at 2023 4:38 PM

MSgt Cindy Kinnamon — Wed, 24 May 2023 16:38:28 -0400

I’ve learned to work out my physical body at the gym and my routine has enabled new friends to interact/train with which has boosted my mental health/ confidence! Routine is not boring it’s my way of remembering.

Response by SPC Shawn Miller made May 24 at 2023 7:53 PM

SPC Shawn Miller — Wed, 24 May 2023 19:53:39 -0400

Go to my appointments and take my meds

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2023 9:41 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 24 May 2023 21:41:25 -0400

I like to do several things...exercise, vent to a trusted person, do 5 things for others without expecting something in return, try to make people laugh, read or watch something inspirational.

I try to utilize and mix-and-match these things

Response by SGT Jimmy Carpenter made May 25 at 2023 1:11 AM

SGT Jimmy Carpenter — Thu, 25 May 2023 01:11:03 -0400

I mostly go fishing. I love the peace and solitude being out on the lake. I used to go to the range fairly often but the cost of ammo is just ridiculous.

Response by SSG Jim Whitt made May 25 at 2023 2:15 AM

SSG Jim Whitt — Thu, 25 May 2023 02:15:37 -0400

Weekly group meetings

Response by PVT Ted Rodosovich made May 28 at 2023 6:14 AM

PVT Ted Rodosovich — Sun, 28 May 2023 06:14:37 -0400

Stay away from anything religious. Stick with logic, science.

Response by SGT Karen Williams made May 29 at 2023 11:50 AM

SGT Karen Williams — Mon, 29 May 2023 11:50:45 -0400

I eat healthy and try to walk/hike every day.

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made May 29 at 2023 1:20 PM

SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D — Mon, 29 May 2023 13:20:41 -0400

I agonize with its' horrific antagonizing affects, both mentally and physically, but find salvation and peace by considering it an atonement and reconciliation for my sins. The Lord and prayer have been my saving grace and salvation, for without them, there would be no me!

Response by SGT Ruben Lozada made May 29 at 2023 2:08 PM

SGT Ruben Lozada — Mon, 29 May 2023 14:08:33 -0400

Good afternoon. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this.

Response by SPC Michael Brookes made May 29 at 2023 2:13 PM

SPC Michael Brookes — Mon, 29 May 2023 14:13:23 -0400

I make it a point to attend my va support groups daily take notes and participate in my treatment

Response by SPC Lyle Montgomery made May 29 at 2023 8:34 PM

SPC Lyle Montgomery — Mon, 29 May 2023 20:34:59 -0400

Believe in God. Go to church. Pray. Have a good partner in life. Dont sweat the small shit, Its all small shit.

Response by Amn Dale Preisach made May 29 at 2023 8:42 PM

Amn Dale Preisach — Mon, 29 May 2023 20:42:55 -0400

I have a great pet and live with my brother and his fiancee' who also have a great pet. These dogs are family to me. But not the family i grew up in to say the least.
I treat them the best i can. Knowing full well that they will do the same in their own way.
I am kind to most animals. They are more honest and what ya see is what ya get with them. No guile/ ulterior motives,...

Response by MAJ Miyoko Bell made May 30 at 2023 3:55 AM

MAJ Miyoko Bell — Tue, 30 May 2023 03:55:30 -0400

I do several things.
1. Interact with medical professionals
2. Interact with psychiatrist
3. Meditate/Medical Yoga/ Alexander Technique
5. Reki therapy
6. Acupuncture Treatments
7. Chiropractic Services
8. Keep moving
9. Keep engaged mentally with sodoku or gaming apps for mental acumen
10. Vitamins: B12, Co Q10; Magsufate, melatonin, Vitamin D3 with Vitamin K1 and K2; fish oil high in DHA and EPA
11. Laugh frequently
12. I create art: painting with watercolor, acrylic paint, make metal jewelry, sew and knit
13. Gardening, Cooking
14. Look at pictures of BABY ANIMALS!

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2023 5:02 AM

PV2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 30 May 2023 05:02:59 -0400

As a volunteer, I find great benefit to my mental health in the very activity of volunteering. The opportunity to help others and make a positive difference in their lives is an immediate source of satisfaction and well-being for me. When I have seen my volunteer work benefit people and the community, it really lifts my spirits and strengthens my mental stability. I feel valued and important knowing that my contributions matter and help others overcome challenges. I will also give you an example with some routine tasks, I am looking for ways to avoid them as much as possible and automate them, for example about my work with emails I automate with https://workspace.google.com/marketplace/app/email_verification/ [login to see] 6 I hope you understood my point

Email Verification - Google Workspace Marketplace

Verify emails from Google Sheets

Response by SSG Leo Mcardle made Jun 5 at 2023 1:10 AM

SSG Leo Mcardle — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 01:10:30 -0400

I give back to my fellow Veterans and their families. I help them get their dd214 and other records. I encourage them to visit our county VSO to file claims and I also assist them with getting registered with the VA for medical. My most rewarding thing is coordinating Final Honors and supplying Chaplains & Firing Details when requested. So far I am on track to complete 8,000 services by either working with families to get the active military for flag folding, supplying chaplains, firing details, and live buglers. I work with all branches and regularly am contacted by the CA ANG, 23rd Regiment USMC, and the local U S Navy to assist them.

Response by CPL Jason Blackwood made Jun 7 at 2023 5:57 PM

CPL Jason Blackwood — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 17:57:50 -0400

Routinely, I get out of bed in the morning and I exercise soon thereafter. I try to stay as upbeat and positive since I've been retired from the Army throughout the day as I do my daily chores and activities. And, I like spending time with my wife, my two cats, and other friends and family. I also seek therapeutic help from a VA doctor.

Response by SFC Gregory Jones made Jun 7 at 2023 6:02 PM

SFC Gregory Jones — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:02:01 -0400

Three things, daily prayer/mindfulness, daily 50 minute walk five days a week, and interaction with others, as most mental illness from my experience usually is developed and configured around an inability to relate and interact with others. SFC (Ret) Gregory Jones, [login to see]

Response by SPC James Vanderhoof made Jun 7 at 2023 6:04 PM

SPC James Vanderhoof — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:04:42 -0400

I find that reading in a variety of genres, both fiction and non-fiction helps me to maintain and even improve my mental health. As a life-long Christ follower, my focus on the Bible is augmented by all kinds of other books.
But if that's all I did, I would be far too isolated from others, thus the importance of building relationships in my community is crucial. Membership at church, singing in a community chorus, and helping out at the local food bank gives me opportunities to still make a difference as I age.

Response by CPT Gary Griffith made Jun 7 at 2023 6:06 PM

CPT Gary Griffith — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:06:21 -0400

I keep a gratitude journal to help me reflect and record daily blessings.

Response by Capt Terry Wilcox made Jun 7 at 2023 6:11 PM

Capt Terry Wilcox — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:11:03 -0400

It isn't something we think about but do all the time every day. We race through a Evil Sudoku, ride bikes, read and study, create and build projects, play card with friends, play chess and word games, travel and explore, foster and train dogs, introduce grand children and great grandchildren to the beauty of our world, the list goes on and on. At 82 and retired I do not know how I had time to work.

Response by SSG Archie Martinez made Jun 7 at 2023 6:14 PM

SSG Archie Martinez — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:14:10 -0400

Early in my life I had a major turning point and didn’t have mature friends or a close enough relationship with family to share with an expectation of receiving constructive feedback. So, decided to invest into a couple sessions with a spiritual counselor. Turns out the counselor was down to earth and didn’t even charge me because he was a veteran himself. This was one of my best decisions ever made in terms of maintaining or improving upon my mental health. Godspeed!

Response by Cpl William Mcgowan made Jun 7 at 2023 6:24 PM

Cpl William Mcgowan — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:24:02 -0400

I take my prescribed meds as directed, thats #1. But I also found out by regular exercise in my case I love to lift weights and work out on a heavy bag, that it gives me a good feeling about myself it makes me feel confident in myself. I also love to read and do all kind of puzzles to exercise my mind'

Response by SPC Ray Jasz made Jun 7 at 2023 6:30 PM

SPC Ray Jasz — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:30:30 -0400

Praying fir self and others is good for mental health

Response by PO3 Jack Halloran made Jun 7 at 2023 6:33 PM

PO3 Jack Halloran — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:33:03 -0400

Currently using music therapy to maintain. Never heard of it but my psychologist actually listened to me and suggested it and set up my 1 session. Everything was through video conferences and my therapist was amazing! All free and through the VA. I start my day with 1 particular play lists and gets me going. I highly recommend this therapy!

Response by PO3 Christine Hulme made Jun 7 at 2023 6:40 PM

PO3 Christine Hulme — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:40:33 -0400

I go to the VA and see a counselor, psychiatrist, social worker, and pastor. Those seem to help with mental health.

Response by SGT Timothy Butka made Jun 7 at 2023 6:47 PM

SGT Timothy Butka — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:47:52 -0400

Meditate and read the Stoic Philosophers

Response by PO3 Tim Byrne made Jun 7 at 2023 6:49 PM

PO3 Tim Byrne — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:49:32 -0400

Have been receiving VA support for years, and have learned to mostly manage where I'm at. Maintaining regular scheduled appointments for both mind and body, which is making things a lot better. Using skills in photography to teach vets through Vet Centers near me, This sharing (teaching) is definitely two way. I highly reco that if you have a skill or passion, find a way to share it. What you give comes full circle.

Response by TSgt Andrea Rodriguez made Jun 7 at 2023 6:49 PM

TSgt Andrea Rodriguez — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:49:37 -0400

I get outside as much as possible and regularly connect with people who have a positive impact on my life.

Response by SGT Wesley Bielinski made Jun 7 at 2023 6:52 PM

SGT Wesley Bielinski — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:52:40 -0400

Read the Bible

Response by PO3 Patti Stevens made Jun 7 at 2023 6:56 PM

PO3 Patti Stevens — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:56:04 -0400

Working with others always helps me when I’m down, but truthfully sometimes I choose to suffer longer than need be.
Meditating helps me get refocused. Writing in a journal and/or talking with a friend. Sometimes just watching a funny movie will pull me out of a bad/sad mood.

Response by CH (MAJ) Mark Diddle made Jun 7 at 2023 6:59 PM

CH (MAJ) Mark Diddle — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:59:23 -0400

I work on my relationship with God, with my family and with others. I also participate with a veterans association to help other veterans in need. Giving can be a powerful tool.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2023 7:04 PM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:04:39 -0400

Not focusing so much on me, helps me. My family and I take our Christian faith seriously, we serve others and worship. Doing those is a huge help, especially when I returned from my last deployment. Additionally, our marriage is strong, and while that is a job of sorts, it's also a huge stabilizing factor. Finally, in all the jobs I've had since retirement I've been fortunate enough to directly or indirectly help active duty Soldiers. Not quite the same as being an NCO, but servant- leadership is always available, in and out of uniform!

Response by SP5 Ken Brow made Jun 7 at 2023 7:05 PM

SP5 Ken Brow — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:05:01 -0400

I strive to stay busy by working at a car dealership 2 days a week and to keep my mind busy and working in better shape I do the financial work for our Church, our State organization of Churches and maintain the financial work for our camp.

The work at the dealership is a long 11 hour day but keeps me interfacing with many individuals in the car as I take them home or to their place of work. I have meet many people and in the course of 9+ years I have been driving them to their destination. I have learned much from my customers from information about their selves, their jobs, what is happening with many businesses and with our city.

My financial work not only keeps me busy but exercises my mind working with financial number and learning how to use the computer for new functions.

Response by LT Matthew Blair made Jun 7 at 2023 7:08 PM

LT Matthew Blair — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:08:20 -0400

Exercise is probably the most effective option. I also enjoy flying, so volunteering with the Civil Air Patrol and igniting the joy of aviation for middle and high schoolers helps give me a sense of purpose.

Response by SPC R Mangrove made Jun 7 at 2023 7:10 PM

SPC R Mangrove — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:10:28 -0400

There are many, many ways to maintain or improve one’s mental health, but they begin with and depend efforts to avoid practices that damage your physical health.

Drugs, smoking, lack of exercise, excessive alcohol, poor eating habits and lack of sleep can ruin even the most well thought-out and praised mental health routine. Each, in its own silent way, works against your mental welfare and will prevail unless you take action to counter it.

So start the road to enhanced mental health by taking a realistic view of your habits, environment and choices. If you find you are deficient in any of the above instances, take corrective action; only then should you start working on the mind.

Response by PO3 Rosalind Robbins made Jun 7 at 2023 7:10 PM

PO3 Rosalind Robbins — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:10:28 -0400

I have raised chickens for the past five years. I found it hard to motivate myself with my disabilities, mental health issues and deaths to the point I was lost. I started small, lost a couple of flocks, and started over. I learned that it's relaxing once you learn your flocks habits. I found myself, when able, being a little more active. I then take and give the eggs too others, especially since my flock lays various colors. I also started this year hatching covid to give to anyone whom wants to raise chickens. Out of all the projects I've started for my mental health, raising chickens is the one that keeps me sound.

Response by PO3 Michael Snow made Jun 7 at 2023 7:12 PM

PO3 Michael Snow — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:12:15 -0400

I adopted a feral kitty that I trapped behind my house. His name is Smokey and is now 1.5 years old. I also do treadmill three times a week and a full body dumbbell workout 2-3 times a week. I read every day and am currently enjoying the Pike Logan series by Brad Taylor.

Response by LtCol Michael Cirillo made Jun 7 at 2023 7:15 PM

LtCol Michael Cirillo — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:15:31 -0400

I exercise six or seven days a week. I combine walking and/or running every other day with weight lifting every other day. For walking and running, my distance is usually never farther than 2-3 miles. For weight lifting, I break out my entire body into upper body pushing, upper body pulling, and a lower body workout.

Response by Sgt Roger Huff made Jun 7 at 2023 7:15 PM

Sgt Roger Huff — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:15:58 -0400

I focus on my wife and kids. I battle survivor's guilt horribly. There have been several times I have nearly ended it. Then my son came along. I am married to an amazing woman and our kids are phenomenal. I now have something to live for. I focus on them to get through the darkness.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2023 7:19 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:19:01 -0400

I have improved my mental health by getting into nature. Even if it’s just ten minutes on my back porch without my phone, I allow myself to just be aware of the sounds around me and it brings me a sense of calm. I can use this to start and end my day, or during a period of mental distress. Something about the birds and the trees that brings me to a calm and peaceful place.

Response by LtCol Michael Cirillo made Jun 7 at 2023 7:20 PM

LtCol Michael Cirillo — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:20:27 -0400

To maintain or improve my mental health, I exercise 6-7 days a week. every other day, I walk or run 2-3 miles then workout in the gym. I split between one session upper body pushing, upper body pulling, and legs.

Response by PO1 Christine Wilds made Jun 7 at 2023 7:30 PM

PO1 Christine Wilds — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:30:22 -0400

Read my Bible and pray, remembering that it’s not all about me and that there’s a better place coming at the end of this road we call life

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2023 7:33 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:33:58 -0400

To maintain or improve mental health is an important step to a long and fulfilling life in my opinion. I do this by working out weekly and maintaining muscle mass and keeping off the fat. Calisthenics is my go to for this and I always feel better afterwards. Stretching is another huge factor in staying healthy for me. I recently started incorporating yoga moves to my routine and I noticed a large increase of relief on muscle, joints, tendons, etc. Knowing that I am taking care of my body keeps my mental health at ease.

When there are days at a time when I cannot find time to workout my brain starts stressing out. Its like a bottle of soda shook up and then someone comes along and unscrews the cap to let out all the steam.

Another way to help maintain my mental health is going out into nature whenever possible, and taking in all the beauty around. I enjoy life exploring the big outdoors and I feel like my mind is at ease seeing new sites. There is always something if you look hard enough in your area. One other outdoor activity that puts my mind at ease and helps me to be grateful for life is scuba diving. Being under water and not being able to listen to other people or hear some type of electronic device noise is satisfying.

I also enjoy spending time with friends from work. These days everyone stays to themselves and stays inside. I try to invite people over for game nights, and a good dinner. These gatherings build better relationships and helps my mind, by telling me I put on a good evening for guests and friends. This harbors long lasting relationships people won't forget as easily and brings satisfaction to friendships.

Response by SPC Norbert Steger made Jun 7 at 2023 7:42 PM

SPC Norbert Steger — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:42:57 -0400

As an 87-year-old veteran who entered the field of genealogy after the sudden death of my wife I find that trying to trace families to help others learn of the heritage, including my own back as far as 1681 is certainly an exercise that should keep the mind from stagnation.

Response by CW2 Richard Nelson made Jun 7 at 2023 7:55 PM

CW2 Richard Nelson — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:55:26 -0400

I have continuously helped people in need in my communities I have been in. I also took up bicycle riding, to enjoy riding with some people and getting other into bicycling or riding by myself to enjoy nature, the sites and history that a lot of people do not slow down and realize are around them. I rode in multiple fund raiser for our warriors doing 100 mile rides before I finally retire from the work force in 2021. Now I travel by a touring bicycle through out the country for multiple days to a couple weeks on many wonderful trails around the states, taking my time meeting people and enjoying life, which cost very little to travel. I have meta lot of people that take care of you along the way and have been making new friends. I take life one day at a time to enjoy it, as you never no when the last day will come.

Response by Sgt David Branham made Jun 7 at 2023 7:56 PM

Sgt David Branham — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 19:56:24 -0400

I play WordsWithFriends, chess and multiple casinos (for free fun). I keep in contact with friends and family via social media and texting. I work part time to keep active from a multitude or perspectives and maintain a positive attitude.I’m 77 and look forward to another 30 years.

Response by SP5 Walter Godsoe made Jun 7 at 2023 8:10 PM

SP5 Walter Godsoe — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:10:15 -0400

I paint, thats my primary goto, I design electronic musical instruments(midi) and when I'm at my best volunteer at thr food bank.

Response by CW4 John Maschmeier made Jun 7 at 2023 8:13 PM

CW4 John Maschmeier — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:13:41 -0400

i and my wife raise guide dogs for the blind. Have been for 15 years. We get the 8 or 9 week old puppies from the company in New York, and raise them for 16 to 18 months, training them, walking them, attending classes every week or two throuhout their time with us. It has been very rewarding, and we have our 10th dog now.

Response by PO2 Jeffery Harrison made Jun 7 at 2023 8:17 PM

PO2 Jeffery Harrison — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:17:16 -0400

I try to get outside as much as possible. I also check in with my providers several times a week. To keep them informed on how I am doing. This allows them to make adjustments for me

Response by LCpl Robert Mcdonald made Jun 7 at 2023 8:22 PM

LCpl Robert Mcdonald — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:22:32 -0400

Stay in contact with friends

Response by MSG Sooyoung Kim made Jun 7 at 2023 8:22 PM

MSG Sooyoung Kim — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:22:50 -0400

see therapist and talk about what you need help with and also talk to your family

Response by SPC John Snook made Jun 7 at 2023 8:34 PM

SPC John Snook — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:34:46 -0400

Meditation

Response by SPC Kurt Heuer made Jun 7 at 2023 8:47 PM

SPC Kurt Heuer — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:47:19 -0400

I volunteer with a local organization that promotes the local annual rodeo, but also does events year-round to raise funds for local scholarships.

Response by A1C John Thompson made Jun 7 at 2023 8:49 PM

A1C John Thompson — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:49:31 -0400

Isn’t that the question. Never know what will hit you from day to day. Although you have routines to minimize big shocks. You still have to find things to ease. Quiet areas. Supportive folks with large ears and small mouths. Things to take away idle hands. Outlets for anxious feelings I find art projects when I can afford the items.

Response by SGT Michael High made Jun 7 at 2023 8:58 PM

SGT Michael High — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:58:08 -0400

I scuba dive. It is what puts my mind at ease and allows me to truly relax.

Response by SPC James Peterson made Jun 7 at 2023 8:59 PM

SPC James Peterson — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 20:59:46 -0400

To maintain: must be physically active to move the trauma out of my body (the body remembers!) meditation (Jon kabot zin) and I use the 12 steps to maintain emotional control. To improve: I watch videos and read books by Gabor Mate, speak with a sponsor, HELP OTHERS, and continue to live in gratitude for the gift of life (and to honor my brothers who sacrificed ultimately)

Response by SP5 Peter Kelly made Jun 7 at 2023 9:26 PM

SP5 Peter Kelly — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 21:26:22 -0400

Iam 76 year old vietnam veteran. I found metal detecting a hobby I have enjoyed for the past 15 years. the time spent metal detecting is magical .if life got u down there no better way to light up your day.the thrill of those beeps coming from the detector has your complete focus. u just never know what the next target could be. this hobby works for me iam sure it will you.

Response by LTC Douglas Craddock made Jun 7 at 2023 10:01 PM

LTC Douglas Craddock — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:01:37 -0400

The Nashville VA is a great place to get chronic pain treatment. The doctors and staff are absolutely wonderful. The care is superior.

Response by Sgt Lisa Seto made Jun 7 at 2023 10:03 PM

Sgt Lisa Seto — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:03:44 -0400

I make sure I walk 30-60 minutes a day. I practice breathing with deep breaths to help.myself relax and reflect. I try to make healthy food choices as well.

Response by SPC James Philage made Jun 7 at 2023 10:05 PM

SPC James Philage — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:05:16 -0400

I work with my VA Mental health Doctor. I follow his directions and take my meds when required. I word on puzzles and games for memory. Eat healthy and exercise..

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2023 10:09 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:09:33 -0400

Best ways I have found to improve my mental health is to get outside and do something. 2 years ago, I purchased some chickens because I was lacking in my mental health. The chickens got me to go outside. Taking care of them, got me out of my own head.

Response by SPC Lori Lebruska made Jun 7 at 2023 10:09 PM

SPC Lori Lebruska — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:09:37 -0400

I have a meditation practice, exercise, eat a plant-based diet, and meet with a therapist regularly. Bring outdoors as much as possible helps a lot!

Response by LT Eileen Allegro made Jun 7 at 2023 10:12 PM

LT Eileen Allegro — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:12:40 -0400

I improve my mental health by confronting the pains that I hold instead of trying to suppress or distract from them. I notice what situations bring me anxiety or discomfort and I being those to therapy. I fully hear out the parts of me that are feeling uncomfortable emotions in certain situations and I develop an understanding and compassion for those aspects of myself. I then develop an awareness of the actual safety of the present moment and this brings me peace; peace for myself and peace and compassion for others who may display or be compensating for anxieties as well. Besides working with the mental parts of me holding distress, I understand that the nervous system is a full body system. I work with the body by bringing it a sense of safety, too. For example, in a stressed state the body will fixate and stare at a potential threat and will repeat this behavior when triggered. So, I will orient to my surroundings to see the actual present safety of the moment. Finally, I take care of my health to build resiliency. I eat healthy foods and exercise and get fresh air and prioritize sleep. When my body is healthy, I have the capacity for stress and am less likely to be overwhelmed. As with mental health issues, when I notice a problem with the body I do my best to address it, like tackling my issue with anemia. In short, I do my best to notice and confront my challenges and prioritize myself, because I can only show up for others and love others as well and as sincerely as I can show up for and love myself.

Response by SFC Oscar D. Edwards made Jun 7 at 2023 10:19 PM

SFC Oscar D. Edwards — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:19:53 -0400

I educate myself of the many (Mental Health) resources available to our Service Members and their Families, not just for myself, but to anyone who may need assistance while they're feeling alone and helpless. I have a lot of numbers in my phone "Just in Case" someone is in need. However, what I have found to work the best for me and others I've encountered, is nothing more than to be available with an open ear, to hear what's on their heart and mind. We all have friends and loved ones who would do whatever they could to help in these situations, just don't overreact causing a situation to go from bad to worse. Be there with gained knowledge of what to do and an understanding ear, Life is too precious and there are countless resources to help in removing the stigmas associated with mental health issues.

Response by A1C Bernard Morris made Jun 7 at 2023 10:20 PM

A1C Bernard Morris — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:20:08 -0400

Go to the gym and workout for an hour.

Response by SP5 Louis Alexander made Jun 7 at 2023 10:20 PM

SP5 Louis Alexander — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:20:43 -0400

Hiking with my wife and our two golden retrievers—do hand weights and stretch-play video games to keep my brain sharp—-and having grandchildren who have really good questions about life, well, better not sugarcoat your response —our children are intelligent we just have to give them quality information.

Response by Sgt Robert Lake made Jun 7 at 2023 10:44 PM

Sgt Robert Lake — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:44:51 -0400

I was always feeling depressed for a long time and then I started listening to the music I liked from the time surrounding the Viet Nam war. i was 19 when I went in and 23 when I got out but those were the happiest days of my life serving my country. I had just forgotten it until I started talking to other vets and now I listen to all the music that was so great in that time of my life.

Response by PV2 Anthony Townsend made Jun 7 at 2023 10:46 PM

PV2 Anthony Townsend — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:46:11 -0400

I pray and meditate, I also surround myself with positive people to keep my spirits up. It's a struggle everyday to stay in control of my mental health but everyday of survival and triumph over mental difficulties is a good day. Continue to take care of your mental health brothers and sisters, we will survive and you are never alone.

Response by SPC Ronald Summerlin made Jun 7 at 2023 10:57 PM

SPC Ronald Summerlin — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:57:23 -0400

Go camping, riding my SxS, or fishing.

Response by PO1 Mick Epperson made Jun 7 at 2023 10:58 PM

PO1 Mick Epperson — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:58:13 -0400

My mental health is always in motion. So, I am blessed to have a family around me. I spend time with my wife of 47 years. A lot of time with our 6 children when we can be by them. Some even live right here in Bountiful. We have 24 grandchildren. Some are close, some away. Yet, we find time to chat and have reunions. The real medicine nis putting yourself out there. If your family and friends know you care about them...they will care about you.

Response by CPL Patrick Duff made Jun 7 at 2023 10:59 PM

CPL Patrick Duff — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 22:59:25 -0400

I go to SATT meetings 3 days a week at the Lake City VA while taking my medication and going to all Dr. appointments. I also go to 12 step meetings for my recovery and have a sponsor.

Response by A1C William Blakeney made Jun 7 at 2023 11:01 PM

A1C William Blakeney — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:01:55 -0400

I have never been a person that can join in and share with other people or groups of people. It is my nature to be a loner, I enjoy my personal time to myself, and that is my nature and preference of living. Therefore, my primary way of maintaining and improving my mental health is to involve myself in several hobbies. For example. for very little expense, you can purchase electronic teaching kits that allows you to create and build wonderful devices with a small amount of studying and building with electronic parts. Starting small at first building your own personal alarm system, or, making a simple. easy to use robotic car, and other robotic devices I find this hobby to be mesmerizing and fun. The sample kit that is shown in the illustration is under $50 and has everything necessary to build over 20 examples of electronic devices. Also included are the tutorials and instructions. At the same time you will be learning simple, computer programming.
Another time consuming, hobby is, of course model building. There are literally thousands of kits available from model, airplanes, boats, cars, robots, on and on. All of these hobby’s have one thing in common. they are mind expanding and most importantly they all involve your participation to work alone In a quiet, personal space. Of course you can share your experiences with other hobby builders online or in person, that would be your choice in your time. I hope this helps the folks in life that choose to be alone and enjoy their life at the same time, staying mentally healthy and creating things that will bring memories and will create great conversations with Friends, when you choose to share. William Blakeney

Response by SGT Jessika Cahel made Jun 7 at 2023 11:04 PM

SGT Jessika Cahel — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:04:21 -0400

What I do to mai rain or improve my mental health is limit processed foods, move my body throughout the day, and get sufficient sleep every night.

Response by MGySgt Sara Clark made Jun 7 at 2023 11:11 PM

MGySgt Sara Clark — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:11:10 -0400

After retirement I utilized the VA’s Post-9/11 outreach resource to complete the 12 week Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) program. Through the VA I was able to schedule medical appointments I needed to address health issues that affected my mental well-being. I keep up with my appointments and am finally slowing down enough to take care of myself. Self-care helps my state of mind. Addressing and processing past traumas with professional help keeps me healthy. I currently have weekly appointments with a therapist I trust. We can all use an unbiased ear to listen.
I volunteer as a soccer coach for 3-5 year olds. I attend community functions that support local businesses. Whenever I see someone wearing service related appeal or accessories I make a point to connect. Even if it’s a spouse or child of a service member. A sense of community helps me feel more at home.
Overall, the biggest help to my mental well-being has been setting healthy boundaries. I do what I can and give myself grace when I need to take a break.

Response by PFC Ray Aquila made Jun 7 at 2023 11:14 PM

PFC Ray Aquila — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:14:13 -0400

Besides medication provided by VAMC. I find it important to be informed. I read by participating online on different meaningful social media platforms. Activities, i.e., walking, light exercise, etc. When at the VAMC. Interacting with other veterans. I have been instrumental in helping older Veterans. Equally important our younger Veterans in obtaining benefits earned making sure paper work is correctly filled out. I find this very rewarding, and keeping mentally aware.

Response by SPC Sharon Hess made Jun 7 at 2023 11:16 PM

SPC Sharon Hess — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:16:06 -0400

To relieve stress I work out in my yard. I also help take care of my mom.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 7 at 2023 11:23 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:23:00 -0400

Talk to others and workout at the gym.

Response by Col Jenni Hesterman made Jun 7 at 2023 11:26 PM

Col Jenni Hesterman — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:26:01 -0400

I raise Monarch butterflies as a stress-reducing and rewarding activity. Since the 1980s, the Monarch butterfly population has declined by over 99%. They are endangered and on the edge of extinction. I live on the Monarch butterfly migration path and decided to get involved in efforts to help their survival. I started by planting a butterfly garden with pollinators and native milkweed. Monarchs will feed from most flowers, but will only lay their eggs on milkweed. Why? Because this is the only plant monarch caterpillars will eat. Somehow the milky substance doesn't bother them at all.

During the migration season, I carefully remove the eggs or baby caterpillars from the plants and raise them in an indoor shelter so they aren't swept away by heavy rains, a snack for a hungry bird or serve as a host for the Tachinid fly larvae. In nature, only 1 out of 100 monarch eggs will make it all the way to the butterfly stage, there are so many predators! Also, they are killed by pesticides, so please go easy on the chemicals in your garden to help your butterflies survive, thank you! Milkweed requires quite a bit of water to keep its leaves on, so less rain = fewer surviving caterpillars = fewer butterflies.

It takes 28 days from egg to chrysalis, then 14-18 days for the butterfly to hatch. The late stage caterpillars are voracious eaters and can strip a milkweed overnight. I have about 30 plants that I rotate for this purpose. I also learned that in a pinch, Monarch caterpillars will eat sliced cucumbers, pumpkin and squash - but only use organic to be sure there are no pesticides. After the newly hatched butterfly's wings are dry (~24 hours), I feed it some nectar from a very ripe pineapple or the milkweed plant, and then release it to start the journey. If nighttime temps are below 50 degrees, I drive the butterflies 40 miles to an indoor butterfly habitat to be sure they will survive. At this point, I've invested 6 weeks in their survival, so it's worth the extra effort! I log my activities on the Journey North website so the monarch experts can track migration. I've raised and released over 150 butterflies in the last 5 years!

Response by LCpl Phil Tso made Jun 7 at 2023 11:27 PM

LCpl Phil Tso — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:27:22 -0400

Watch Full Metal Jacket at maximum volume.

Response by Cpl Emily Sotomayor made Jun 7 at 2023 11:34 PM

Cpl Emily Sotomayor — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:34:30 -0400

This may sound cliche but I start every morning out with me.
In my garage I have a tub that is already filled with water and I add ice until it’s 59 degrees or below. Now the hard part, getting into that tub. The shock throws your breathing and body into chaos while your mind is fighting you to get out. It takes me a few moments to calm my breathing, stop the shaking, and clear my mind from all over noises.
Overall My mental toughness has improved. An I can look forward knowing that my day can’t get any worse then that bath!

Response by CPL Cesare Vindigni made Jun 7 at 2023 11:34 PM

CPL Cesare Vindigni — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:34:57 -0400

Stay healthy and fit

Response by A1C William Blakeney made Jun 7 at 2023 11:35 PM

A1C William Blakeney — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:35:33 -0400

There are many types of personalities in this world. I for as long as I can remember I have always been a person that enjoys my space, and being alone. that does not mean that I have never joined in with groups, and it does not mean that I do not have personal and shared friendships. I have several good friends and I am a member of the American Legion. To keep myself occupied and maintain a calm and healthy mindset. I use hobbies. My personal favorites are electronic device building, and also constructing models. And, for example, anyone can start assembling fun, electronic devices, such as, personal alarms, robotic cars, and anything else within your imagination. All types of hobbies have one thing in common, they are ways to keep your mind occupied, and spend your time alone in your own space. Of course, you can always share your hobby, with other people with the same interest as yours online, or in person.
The photo I have shared is an example of one way to have fun with electronics, for under $50. You can build more than 20 electronic devices and learn simple computer programming. Everything you need to get started is in one kit. There are of course, thousands of models that are not expensive that can be built in your own space at home and involve a creative healthy mindset. Maybe this is one way that can help you cope with life and all of the challenges that everyone goes through on a daily basis.

Response by PV2 Patricia T Buskuehl made Jun 7 at 2023 11:43 PM

PV2 Patricia T Buskuehl — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:43:39 -0400

get outside

Response by SGT Angela Griffith made Jun 7 at 2023 11:44 PM

SGT Angela Griffith — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:44:35 -0400

I need time alone every few days. The world is full of noise and demands. Quiet time alone is rejuvenating for some of us.

Response by SSG Harris Thayer made Jun 7 at 2023 11:58 PM

SSG Harris Thayer — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 23:58:16 -0400

I am an active cyclist and it clears my mind of all stress. I ride road bicycles 60 to 100 miles per week year round. I also compete in the Senior Olympics and have qualified for the National Senior Olympics. Stress goes flying by as I pedal one of my bikes. My 43rd year of cycling.

Response by PO3 George Rader made Jun 8 at 2023 12:09 AM

PO3 George Rader — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:09:10 -0400

Take walks in the woods to clear my mind and degrees when overwhelmed, anxious, or negative energy.

Response by SSG Troy Wolf made Jun 8 at 2023 12:11 AM

SSG Troy Wolf — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:11:55 -0400

Good Luck Everyone that enters the contest!

Response by SSG Troy Wolf made Jun 8 at 2023 12:13 AM

SSG Troy Wolf — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:13:25 -0400

One of the best ways I found since I’m no longer able to run, is to continuously talk to my mental health team and keep the communication line open.

Response by Cpl Richard Mathes made Jun 8 at 2023 12:25 AM

Cpl Richard Mathes — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:25:53 -0400

I try to talk about what I am feeling. I say that I try, because sometimes it is very hard for me to explain it the best I can. I feel if I talk about it and be completely honest. It will help me, it may confuse people that I talk to. But, in the end they understand and my mental health stays sane.

Response by PO2 Robin Storey made Jun 8 at 2023 12:33 AM

PO2 Robin Storey — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:33:41 -0400

I do gardening. I have huge corn stalks getting ready to pop out some ears of corn. Also squash, tomatoes, bell peppers. I also have a cherry tree, apricot tree, almond tree, and three fig trees. I love canning.

Response by Sgt Melissa Torres made Jun 8 at 2023 3:37 AM

Sgt Melissa Torres — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 03:37:16 -0400

I hit the gym. Nothing like being grounded when working out with weights. I focus on the breath and the moment. It's not easy and sometimes I sway when the PTSD kicks in but somehow I manage to get back and I'm thankful for it every time. I also do yoga and read non-fiction psychology books that help me understand what I am going through.

Response by SrA Don Oberlies made Jun 8 at 2023 4:34 AM

SrA Don Oberlies — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 04:34:11 -0400

I try to let the small shit roll of my back. Because life is to short to waste time on it!

Response by CPT Chip Knapp made Jun 8 at 2023 5:20 AM

CPT Chip Knapp — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 05:20:08 -0400

I am a volunteer Interior Fire Fighter and EMT. It is my way on continuing to give back and protect. In turn it helps me with a purpose and a mission. In addition to this, going to the gym 5-6 days a week both keep me on track and help my personal mental health.

Response by SP5 J. Durham made Jun 8 at 2023 5:50 AM

SP5 J. Durham — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 05:50:57 -0400

First, you have to realize that it is a never ending journey. Second, you have to confront your triggers and deal with them immediately. You can not deflect by occupying your mind with other things. Lastly, those close to can not really help as they don't truly understand your journey. However, a service animal or your pet understands you far better than people or professionals can, so allow them to calm you when things get tough.

Response by PV2 Ryan Cunningham made Jun 8 at 2023 5:51 AM

PV2 Ryan Cunningham — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 05:51:31 -0400

Prayer is my first line of defense and avenue of improvement. Followed closely by regular trips to my VA provided counselor. Group therapy is great when I'm in the right group... exercise and even some brain games to keep me focused are a big help too. But, on days when the memories get really rough, I turn to my support system. I only have friends because I don't have any family left, but the ones I count on, have known me long enough to be ready with good advice, supportive words or sometimes even just an ear to listen to me. On the worst of days, they're here to provide me with a shoulder to cry on. I'm not worried about winning anything, I just wanted to get on here and say to to the men and women I know will read the comments...

If your hurting inside, if your head just ain't feeling right or if it seems like your brain is working against you some days. Reach out... To family, to friends... Do an internet search... I promise you, you'll find the resources... there are tons of people, just like you, going through the same kinds of things. And, there's no shame in asking for help... Nobody is gunna look down on you for it... Start with your local VA, it has tons of options, from just a little helping hand to full scale mental health facilities and programs to help you get back to where your comfortable in your own thoughts again. Don't suffer alone. Reach out and simply ask... And you'll be surprised at all the hands reaching back to help you get back up again and get right. There's no time like today to start trying to improve the most important Heath sector there is... Your very own thoughts.

Response by CPT Carl Caskey made Jun 8 at 2023 5:54 AM

CPT Carl Caskey — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 05:54:17 -0400

I let my daughter handle business. Especially tech based business. She finds stress relief in yoga.

Response by SFC David Staffa made Jun 8 at 2023 6:09 AM

SFC David Staffa — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 06:09:19 -0400

With my severe PTSD, I have tried all sorts of therapies to minimize the effects. Some that work for me are as follows:
Walking - Walking the War Off - I walk daily 2-3 miles. Not only does it give me a time for personal inflection, the sights, sounds and smells of the outdoor environment invigorates and recharges my soul.
Writing - I have written and published several articles about war and PTSD for our local newspaper. Sharing the results of combat and war is my way of stating that we need to rethink what wars are really worth fighting. Perhaps I can change or influence people with my writing.
Yoga/Pilates - I attend and participate in a minimum of 3 classes each week. The mindfulness and peace of mind where you are just totally focused on "you" is refreshing.
Assisting Veterans - I am a Wounded Warrior Team Leader and the experiences I lead with fellow veterans not only warms their hearts but keeps me connected to the military environment with veterans from all services.
Eating Well and Right - Like the saying goes, I eat mostly from the outer aisles of the grocery stores. Fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and chicken are basically my staples for healthy living.
Kefir - You may laugh but gut health is extremely important to brain health. A 4 ounce glass of strawberry kefir keeps my head clear.

Response by LTC Bruce Osborne made Jun 8 at 2023 6:36 AM

LTC Bruce Osborne — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 06:36:44 -0400

I volunteer my time to set-up and serve junior enlisted members in our local USO with bi-monthly no-cost family dinners and a big dinner and gift giving at Christmas.

Response by SGT Jimmy Moon made Jun 8 at 2023 6:40 AM

SGT Jimmy Moon — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 06:40:56 -0400

I do not celebrate mental illness month called pride month. It is a mental heath issue and those dummies need to wake up. There is no reason for that garbage in the military.

Response by Cpl Justin Rencher made Jun 8 at 2023 6:50 AM

Cpl Justin Rencher — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 06:50:41 -0400

I work and love life to the fullest even tho the rough days with my wife and child. Family is what helps me keep my mental health.

Response by MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2023 6:53 AM

MGySgt Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 06:53:12 -0400

Being plugged in more with community (Cub/Boy Scout leader), church, the Bible, family, friends, spending time in the splendor of God’s creation in nature and most importantly in the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Response by CPL Rose Billington made Jun 8 at 2023 7:07 AM

CPL Rose Billington — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:07:56 -0400

I've learned that really diving into hobbies helps me maintain my mental health. I consider many of my hobbies to be meditative - knitting, watercolor painting, gardening and cooking all require my full attention to the task at hand, but clears my mind of all other harmful or negative thoughts. In addition to that, I believe that working on increasing mobility and fitness have always helped me through stressful or traumatic experiences.

Response by Sgt Kerry Zelazny made Jun 8 at 2023 7:17 AM

Sgt Kerry Zelazny — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:17:23 -0400

I try to keep learning about mental illnesses and always remind myself that no matter how confident I might be about “knowing” myself or others, there is always more to discover.

Response by A1C Arlisher Jones made Jun 8 at 2023 7:22 AM

A1C Arlisher Jones — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:22:39 -0400

I read daily. I also find that walking outside to clear my mind helps greatly.

Response by PO3 Yaw Owusu-Ansah made Jun 8 at 2023 7:35 AM

PO3 Yaw Owusu-Ansah — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:35:28 -0400

Focus on and relive the best times of my life.

Response by CMSAF Martina Borg made Jun 8 at 2023 7:35 AM

CMSAF Martina Borg — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:35:30 -0400

When I retired a couple of years ago I started talking taekwondo classes! It's something I've always wanted to do but wanted to wait until retirement to do so. Even though I'm not very good I love the physical exertion and the challenge of learning the movement. The unexpected benifit of starting this endevour is that it makes me feel so good mentally by accepting the challenges of learning the new moves and improving! The Dojang I attend has a very welcoming environment that is very supportive of a 56 year old woman trying to learn something new which is also a wonderful mood booster. That support means a lot to me!!!

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2023 7:36 AM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:36:24 -0400

Staying in touch with my friends and family. Making sure that I focus on the moment I’m in and letting go of the other issues that can cloud your mind. I’m also volunteering in my local State Veteran rest home.

Response by SPC John Meyer made Jun 8 at 2023 7:57 AM

SPC John Meyer — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:57:36 -0400

For me, maintaining my mental health I do a few things. Every couple of months I have an appt. with my Mental Health Doctor. I discuss things with my family. And I relax a lot with my pets. This is how I maintain my mental health.

Response by CPT Jeff C made Jun 8 at 2023 8:07 AM

CPT Jeff C — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:07:57 -0400

I realized I missed being part of a team. This past winter I got back into high school coaching and volunteered as an assistant varsity soccer coach for a local team. These young me are mainly refugees from Africa with very little means. I had to help organize a fundraiser to buy shoes for them. These boys played for the love of the game and truly for each other. It was the family I had bad been missing. These men inspired me and by the end of the season they had accepted me as one of their own. We went to State for the first time since 2008 and unfortunately lost the semifinals. In our loss we gained a lifelong bond. I would do anything for these young men. Much like my brothers and sisters in arms. I never realized how much I needed this type of coaching back in my life. I am a better person and feel accomplished for the first time in many years. I can tell you this money being offered for my story would go back to these boys for next year.

Response by Sgt Clay Nealy made Jun 8 at 2023 8:09 AM

Sgt Clay Nealy — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:09:57 -0400

Spending time with grandkids is the best therapy for me!

Response by SPC Kari Fabian made Jun 8 at 2023 8:15 AM

SPC Kari Fabian — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:15:03 -0400

I stay connected to to my faith and my family as much as possible. I spend time reading my Bible daily and praying for others. My family and I are very intentional about regularly planning quality time together. For me, as long as I have those two things, my faith and my family, I can face anything this world throws at me. God bless you all! I'm praying for you too!

Response by PO3 Leah Willis made Jun 8 at 2023 8:42 AM

PO3 Leah Willis — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:42:04 -0400

I found out the hard way that taking my meds is very important to maintaining my mental health issues. I also work with homeless Veterans, helping them find resources and affordable housing. Putting my energy towards helping keeps me grounded and reinforces positive thinking and actions that I try to share.

Response by MSgt Danny Acasio made Jun 8 at 2023 8:50 AM

MSgt Danny Acasio — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:50:36 -0400

I build Lego sets that I have collected over the years. It helps me keep my focus and sharpens my mind and motor skills.

Response by TSgt Chris DiPaola made Jun 8 at 2023 8:51 AM

TSgt Chris DiPaola — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:51:25 -0400

After years of trying to do outward things that I thought were helping me inward, I had a nervous breakdown and needed help badly. It was at that point I finally really turned to my faith in Jesus for my mental health. As part of that, I have been working with a therapist who has been helping me to learn how to practice mindfulness and contemplative prayer. These practices have really transformed the way I participate in life because it has taught me to observe my thoughts, feelings, and emotions as just what they are - thoughts, feelings, and emotions - but they don’t define me or how I act. With this new realization of my true self, I have finally been experiencing true mental peace even in the midst of the storms around me. This has freed me to go out and be much more present to others.

Response by SPC John Oglesby made Jun 8 at 2023 8:56 AM

SPC John Oglesby — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 08:56:19 -0400

Family time, Church service and activities, Gardening, Golf and gatherings with friends. All of these activities support my mental and physical health as well as the community we live in.

Response by SPC Wanda Thill made Jun 8 at 2023 9:11 AM

SPC Wanda Thill — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:11:07 -0400

First I talk with someone down at the VA. This does not make you weak, it gives you an outlet and for you to get a response on how to work through it through a third parties view. Don't let others opinions tear you down! They don't live your life! Look at those who care and those around you that you care for. This is what is important! Never feel alone that is what will get you the most. Talk and get someone you can call anytime. You are loved and you are needed! This is how I deal with my mental health. Don't think I don't slip every once in a while; but I will always get back on track because I am someone. Just Talk to someone!

Response by PO3 Michael Whitaker made Jun 8 at 2023 9:12 AM

PO3 Michael Whitaker — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:12:14 -0400

I like to go hiking. Nature is so vibrant currently and the liveliness of all the animals and insects makes it so exciting, but if it’s raining then I find that I can crochet the day away and create something useful but also I found church’s and a couple organizations like to give small things away to people to brighten their day.

Response by SP5 Ivan Gil made Jun 8 at 2023 9:13 AM

SP5 Ivan Gil — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:13:12 -0400

Stay physically active and I try to learn something new every day.

Response by SP5 Ivan Gil made Jun 8 at 2023 9:15 AM

SP5 Ivan Gil — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:15:24 -0400

I stay physically active and try to learn something new each day.

Response by SrA Amy Childers made Jun 8 at 2023 9:21 AM

SrA Amy Childers — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:21:30 -0400

I am very dedicated to maintaining my mental health. It almost killed me when I did not. It has been a long road since getting discharged from the Air Force (2008) due to my Bipolar diagnosis, but I persevered. I provide self care / maintain my MH in a multitude of ways beyond the stereotypical ideas like pedicures. Here are a few:
1. Adhere to my medication regimen.
2. Actively engage in therapy. This includes individual and group sessions like Dialectic Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychotherapy, STAIR methods, Opposite Actions, safety plans, +5 to -5 benchmark definitions, Describe - Express - Assert - Reinforce - Mindful - Appear Confident - Negotiate (DEAR MAN), decision balance.
3. Make sure all my monthly bills are current and paid
4. Keep my house in clean working order
5. Spend time with my 3 dogs (registered as ESA)
6. Spend time with my family. Raised my son to have empathy, understanding, and love.
7. Spend time sewing clothing, quilts, pillows, purses, etc. for family and friends. This is my biggest outlet.
8. Helping those who need help. I have been the person who has been left behind, abused, etc. I help others who have nowhere else to go and show them that there is still good in this world.
9. Maintaining quality friendships over quantity.

Response by LCpl Kama Chase made Jun 8 at 2023 9:22 AM

LCpl Kama Chase — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:22:12 -0400

I regularly engage in yoga to force myself out of negative thoughts. The VA now offers free sessions

Response by Capt James Axelson made Jun 8 at 2023 9:36 AM

Capt James Axelson — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:36:07 -0400

Continue to learn new things and spend time in God's Word

Response by PO1 Shawn Young made Jun 8 at 2023 9:41 AM

PO1 Shawn Young — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:41:23 -0400

Volunteer, cycle for veterans, and cycle for exercise, fun, and fitness.

Response by CN Norm Klingbile made Jun 8 at 2023 9:47 AM

CN Norm Klingbile — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 09:47:40 -0400

Living in the SoWest gives me lots of time for time outside with pup and the garden. It’s a challenge but that’s part of what keeps me sane.

Response by Maj Stephen Kobelas made Jun 8 at 2023 10:09 AM

Maj Stephen Kobelas — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:09:37 -0400

Stay Busy. I am going to college to finish my work on my degree. I took some courses in the military, so I am now a college student. It's nice to be around young people. I am 90 tears young. Steve

Response by PO3 Monique Coates made Jun 8 at 2023 10:11 AM

PO3 Monique Coates — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:11:50 -0400

Besides working with my therapist to get through the harder aspects, I have found that gardening relaxes my mind. It has helped me get through some hard moments of grief, and depression. I've been able to grow with my plants in many ways, and my skills have improved with each harvest. I've changed my career to urban farming, and make time off the clock to farm/garden on my own time for my community and myself. I'm even at the point where I teach classes, and help others discover their passion for gardening! I am eternally grateful for this earth, and that I've found something that continues to help.

Response by SN Travis Williams made Jun 8 at 2023 10:18 AM

SN Travis Williams — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:18:06 -0400

I pray, read the Bible and meditate

Response by SrA Chizoba Nwadiogbu made Jun 8 at 2023 10:19 AM

SrA Chizoba Nwadiogbu — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:19:05 -0400

Stay active. Go to the gym regularly. Socialize often and don't isolate.

Response by SGT Ramon Delgado made Jun 8 at 2023 10:32 AM

SGT Ramon Delgado — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:32:34 -0400

I attend church regularly with my family. I serve as a servant of God in Men retreats to encourage men to get to know the love of God.

Response by SMSgt Arthur Tovar made Jun 8 at 2023 10:47 AM

SMSgt Arthur Tovar — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:47:31 -0400

Spend time outside.

Response by Sgt Daniel Garner made Jun 8 at 2023 11:04 AM

Sgt Daniel Garner — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:04:59 -0400

I get down on my knees and pray to God. Before Jesus entered my life I was a wreck on the verge of leaving this world. He saved me then end when I’m having a bad day I know who to turn to. It doesn’t stop there though. The Bible and worship through song are two of the most powerful tools available to help a person through hard times. Also, fellowship, getting together with other Christian’s. You can’t go wrong with love and that’s exactly what Jesus came to show us, love one another. If you’re having a hard time in life, turn on some Christian gospel music and listen, learn, and praise.

Response by SFC Osvaldo Soto made Jun 8 at 2023 11:25 AM

SFC Osvaldo Soto — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:25:43 -0400

I make incense.

Response by LCpl Sara Rennicke made Jun 8 at 2023 11:39 AM

LCpl Sara Rennicke — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:39:10 -0400

I play on a pool league and interact with other veterans like me!

Response by Cpl Patrick Lally made Jun 8 at 2023 11:39 AM

Cpl Patrick Lally — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:39:25 -0400

I go to the gym twice a week and talk to my wife about whats happening to me.

Response by MSgt Cynthia Williams made Jun 8 at 2023 11:42 AM

MSgt Cynthia Williams — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:42:17 -0400

I usually do yoga and meditation. Lately, with the dissention and negativity in the world I have increased my prayer game. I find a quiet spot in my home and pour my heart out to God. Sometimes it's followed up with tears, but mostly with a sense of peace.

Response by SFC Jeremy Koop made Jun 8 at 2023 11:44 AM

SFC Jeremy Koop — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:44:46 -0400

There are a few things I do that work for me:
I devote 2 hours to myself every morning right when I wake up. Much like the PT I did for over 20 years in the Army; however, that was with my fellow brothers and sisters. This regiment is geared for individual personal development and are listed below for anyone that may feel is something they can possibly implement:

1. I immediately get out of bed and go the bathroom and splash cold water on my face and run it through my hair. Then I drink a glass of cold water. I then sit in a quiet comfortable position and meditate with "Luminate" (meditation app) for 15 min, and then spend 5 min in reflection and repeat affirmations about myself to myself. Then I read only self-development books for another 20 min. Usually it is a chapter, does not need to be much. I will try to implement the concepts in the book throughout my day. There is a plethora of books out there and would not be able to read all of them in my lifetime. But that does not matter, at least I am reading something to think about through my day and it helps tremendously. Highly recommend this.

2. Then I get on my workout clothes and hit the gym. I love to lift weights. I hit the gym for an hour. I plug in (my mind) to the music that I love and focus on the specific muscle I am working. I do slow concentrated repetitions. I am older and find this much more satisfying of a workout than heavy and fast. I take my time and enjoy my time in my sanctuary (gym). Once complete with my routine, I then stretch slowly all the muscles in which I worked out, closing my eyes again, focusing on the music and deep meditation take slow breathes in and out for about 15 minutes.

3. I then go home and take a cold shower. I know that is not for everyone but you will not believe how much it has helped me out. I then get dressed nice for the day, as it is important even if you work from home in which I do. I am then ready to tackle the day and challenges it brings because I conquered the morning on my own terms (MY TIME).

I hope this helps someone out there. Remember, we cannot help others unless WE (Ourselves) are the priority first and right when you wake up. It has to be then and only then. It takes discipline, but aren't you worth it. My mental health is on a whole other level now. It may or may not work for you, but I hope you give it a try. Peace, Brothers and Sisters,

Regards,
Jeremy

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2023 11:55 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 11:55:25 -0400

Going to therapy or improving on one of my craft skills, helps me maintain a good head space when dealing with my mental health.

Response by Sgt Cynthia Calway made Jun 8 at 2023 12:05 PM

Sgt Cynthia Calway — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:05:15 -0400

What do I do to maintain or improve my mental health? I live in reality. I don't march around a situation, I march through it, and as I do I learn from it. I have and do volunteer. I talk to God. I tell strangers their hair looks good, or that they have a beautiful smile. I tell the truth. I say hello. I smile, and whistle, and sing. I dance in the rain. I laugh, and cry and reflect on the moments of my life that have made me and continue to make me who I am. I hurt for others, I will always offer a hand to someone in need, arms to hold someone tight who just need a safe place to cry. I listen to the world not only with my ears but also with my heart. I love this country of ours and I am proud to have served her well. I believe in truth and integrity and God, and country. I believe in paying it forward. I find joy and peace in giving to others. The smallest things can make me feel completely filled up. Maintaining my mental health not only nurtures me but can also nurture someone else. I try every day, to not judge anyone, because I know I have not walked in their shoes. I see joy, and I acknowledge it. I see sorrow and I acknowledge it. I try to keep it real. I know that every day here is a gift. When I feel sad, or confused or angry, or lonely. I FEEL it and I acknowledge it. I find awareness in doing this. I swim, I read, I write, I grow a family and I grow friendships. I make the right choice even when it is hard, even when it hurts, because making the right choice is always worth it. I make mistakes. I am human. When I do I admit that I was wrong and learn from the mistake. I hope that I continue to learn and grow, and I hope that I continue to make a difference to the smallest of tasks, I understand the weight of life is a book with many chapters. a book I will continue to read for the entirety of my life. I have so much more living to do.

Response by PFC Toni Woodring made Jun 8 at 2023 12:12 PM

PFC Toni Woodring — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:12:32 -0400

I listen to happy music and dance and sing every chance I get

Response by SPC Loren Ginter made Jun 8 at 2023 12:13 PM

SPC Loren Ginter — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:13:27 -0400

I just turned 57 and realizing that without movement we will lose our movement. I work at the VA and average between 4-5 miles a day walking. This has really been helping and has led to weight loss.

Response by TSgt Timothy Collins made Jun 8 at 2023 12:51 PM

TSgt Timothy Collins — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:51:59 -0400

I am currently in the VA Mental health system and being treated for depression, anxiety, and anger issues. I have been prescribed meds and follow up with my Psychologist and Psychiatrist. I will be entering anger management classes in July.

Response by MSgt Valerie Acosta made Jun 8 at 2023 12:54 PM

MSgt Valerie Acosta — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:54:53 -0400

I exercise as much as I can force myself to and I found a community of veterans to practice art with.

Response by PO3 Jennifer Curry made Jun 8 at 2023 12:57 PM

PO3 Jennifer Curry — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:57:41 -0400

Have a regular schedule for eating, sleeping and physical activity. A healthy diet that contains all the food groups. Maintaining a support group being a support for others in need whether it is just being there and listening or guidance if required or requested. Resting and self care when life unfolds with stressful events. Not resisting feeling sad when lose occurs and allowing self compassion. Realizing that so many others also feel sad or overwhelmed at time of struggle. Knowing life is short and oh so precious. Learning new things. Being creative with various mediums and Poetry. Reading. Staying connected with a spiritual community. Having pets are so important even though I live in an apartment that does not allow pets I did in the past and oh how wonderful it was. Getting out in nature. Listening to music. Especial going to sound bathing sessions that use Tibetan bells and other healing instruments. Yoga or stretching. Antidepressant. Behavior health when required. Reading studying and applying skillful speech and emotional wellness through meditation.

Response by CAPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2023 12:59 PM

CAPT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 12:59:14 -0400

I work out or move my body every day - even if it's just a walk around the block. I try to get at least 7 hours of sleep and I meditate for at least 20 minutes every day. These 3 things help me handle the inevitable ups and downs life throws at us.

Response by Maj Doug Harrison made Jun 8 at 2023 1:07 PM

Maj Doug Harrison — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 13:07:26 -0400

Through prayer and sharing the Word of God. I also volunteer in prison ministry called Kolbe Prison Ministries. I find giving back and sharing is the best therapy. God gives us His grace and mercy and wants us to share it, be a channel for it to others, don't hold it in and "keep" it for yourself. Amen!

Response by SPC Christopher Lupica made Jun 8 at 2023 2:07 PM

SPC Christopher Lupica — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:07:20 -0400

My kids and being around them and being able to be a father to them is the best mental health medicine I could ever need! They make everything better when I am having an off day , as frustrating (and stubborn) as they can be sometimes lol I wouldn’t want it any other way I love my job of being their dad!!!! These are the three children that make me a dad!!!

Response by PO2 David Davis made Jun 8 at 2023 2:11 PM

PO2 David Davis — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:11:41 -0400

I go to a nearby Walmart every morning around 0600 and try to greet every employee and every customer with at last a "Good Morning" and a smile. I also go to Church every Sunday and Bible Study every Wednesday which keeps me going pretty well too.

Response by PO3 Victor Ray made Jun 8 at 2023 2:22 PM

PO3 Victor Ray — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:22:15 -0400

I do not take any supplements! I am thinking and doing every minite of the day! Praying for others doing for others! I keep my mind busy!

Response by SPC Francisco Pantoja made Jun 8 at 2023 2:47 PM

SPC Francisco Pantoja — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 14:47:28 -0400

I’m 88 years old now, but I was always an active and committed member of my community. I kept very engaged in sports like bowling and scuba diving, where I was part of a team or a leader within my league. Loved staying connected with people, being part of a “unit”, I believe that’s key. Relationships, social engagement, closeness to family and friends. Cooperation and interaction with my work colleagues and subordinates. I’m a handyman by nature, and when I retired, I volunteered my services to the local scuba diving club, repainting, repairing everything and anything, and also to my wife’s stray dogs rescue association. I fixed rescue cages, built pet’s houses, and new environments for those little guys to thrive until they were adopted by loving families. I still fix and build things at 88. And I joined a local Senior Center, thanks to my VA benefits! I can paint there, and since I’ve always loved music, the paint class and music therapy are my favorites. I get to know other veterans there and make new buddies. I live with my daughter now, life is good. I help around the house, fixing things here and there, and also take care of birds, squirrels and chipmunks in the backyard. She takes me to church every Sunday so I also stay engage with a faith community. Faith in God, family, friends, and thankfulness keep me strong and still going.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 8 at 2023 3:36 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:36:24 -0400

Watching videos of my 18 month old son always brightens my day. Thinking of how I’ll get to squeeze that little man in just a few months helps pass these months while I’m deployed. I look forward to him bringing me books he wants me to read to him and then sitting in my lap so we can read together.

Response by PO2 Jacob B made Jun 8 at 2023 4:05 PM

PO2 Jacob B — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:05:26 -0400

I keep lots of aquariums. Fish, shrimp, snails and live plants. I developed a pretty good drinking problem while in the Navy and it took me a long time to get over. Picked up aquatics to help me quit drinking and I love it. Almost 2 years sober and part of a fun community. Finding a hobby that you can really be passionate about is more help for your mental health than you realize.

Response by Sgt Seth Kelch made Jun 8 at 2023 4:15 PM

Sgt Seth Kelch — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 16:15:34 -0400

The best thing I can do for my mental health is spend time with my service dog! Loki and I go everywhere together. I was very fortunate to receive a service dog completely free and it does more for me than any psych appointment or medication ever could.

Response by CPL Douglas Dwiggins made Jun 8 at 2023 5:33 PM

CPL Douglas Dwiggins — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 17:33:04 -0400

Keep busy with projects and travel. Take afternoon naps frequently to avoid over-tiredness. Read the Bible and other Christian literature, and pray; attend church regularly and fellowship with other Christians. Listen to lots of good music.

Response by SPC William Myers made Jun 8 at 2023 6:05 PM

SPC William Myers — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 18:05:59 -0400

You served your country, now it's time to take care of yourself.

Maintaining or improving your mental health as a veteran can be challenging, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you, and there are things you can do to take care of yourself.

Here are some tips for maintaining or improving your mental health:

Get help if you need it. Don't be afraid to reach out for help. There are many resources available to veterans, including the Veterans Crisis Line, VA mental health clinics, and Vet Centers.
Talk to someone you trust. Talking to someone you trust about your mental health can be helpful. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or counselor.
Take care of yourself. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. These things can help improve your overall mental and physical health.
Find healthy coping mechanisms. There are many healthy ways to cope with stress and difficult emotions. Some examples include exercise, relaxation techniques, spending time in nature, and creative expression.
Get involved in your community. Connecting with others can help you feel less isolated and can provide a sense of purpose. There are many ways to get involved in your community, such as volunteering, joining a veterans' group, or taking a class.
It is important to remember that you are not alone. Many veterans struggle with their mental health. There are resources available to help you, and you deserve to be healthy and happy.

William Myers
Martinez, CA. VA Clinic

Response by SGT Silvana Doll made Jun 8 at 2023 6:16 PM

SGT Silvana Doll — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 18:16:01 -0400

Hot baths. Yoga. Spending time with kids & grandkids. Reflecting often on everything that I’m grateful for.

Response by SGT Justin Lilley made Jun 8 at 2023 8:42 PM

SGT Justin Lilley — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 20:42:20 -0400

Singer songwriter, play my guitar hooah!

Response by CMSgt Kevin Watt made Jun 8 at 2023 8:52 PM

CMSgt Kevin Watt — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 20:52:54 -0400

I received some very good advice from a friend from high school. She said when she retired she made a commitment to do something physical, something mental, and something spiritual everyday. I have taken that advice to heart. I now either walk 4 miles or ride a bike 21 miles, alternating days, and I do this exercise everyday. If the weather is bad I use a treadmill or stationary bike. That's my physical activity. For my mental activity I am learning to play the piano in a self directed course. I'm also taking guitar lessons through my local VA Hospital partnering with CreatiVets. I practice both instruments daily. My spiritual activity involves reading the texts for three major religions. I've completed reading the Quaran. I'm now reading the Christian Bible. When I complete that, I've got the Jewish Bible, or Torah. These are how I manage to keep myself mentally engaged on a daily basis.

Response by Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna made Jun 8 at 2023 8:54 PM

Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 20:54:16 -0400

Medication, herbal tea, Calm music, worship music and crying or praying...

Response by SPC Deb Lamar made Jun 8 at 2023 9:04 PM

SPC Deb Lamar — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 21:04:08 -0400

I walk, at least 30 minutes a day! Exercise is key for me, even if I don't feel like it, I do it, & always tell myself, " Now see, aren't ya glad you did that"! Yes, Yes, Yes!

Response by SCPO Frank Cepeda made Jun 8 at 2023 11:57 PM

SCPO Frank Cepeda — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 23:57:54 -0400

Stay busy. Think before acting on emotions.

Response by PVT Justin Potts made Jun 9 at 2023 6:00 AM

PVT Justin Potts — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 06:00:07 -0400

Fly drones and threpy

Response by SA Gregory Garcia made Jun 9 at 2023 6:14 AM

SA Gregory Garcia — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 06:14:49 -0400

My mental Health is tied to my sense of duty. If I'm only concerned with myself, I feel unaccomplished.

Volunteerism, my dogs, and nature, are my healthiest forms of mental health.

Response by MSgt Larry Ryznar made Jun 9 at 2023 10:39 AM

MSgt Larry Ryznar — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 10:39:19 -0400

i use exercise as an out, really helps maintain my stress level, also I don't drink alcohol. and try to maintain a healthy diet too!

Response by T Hall made Jun 9 at 2023 12:20 PM

T Hall — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:20:12 -0400

To maintain my mental health I choose to think on things that are true, honest, encouraging, right, kiss my babies with joy, read a Bible verse and take a nap (in the same day).

Response by MSgt Rodney Graham made Jun 9 at 2023 12:43 PM

MSgt Rodney Graham — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:43:03 -0400

I continue to seek help and not give up.

Response by LCpl Adam Town made Jun 9 at 2023 1:30 PM

LCpl Adam Town — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:30:09 -0400

I like to go back packing in the Adirondacks or help at local cat rescue

Response by SSgt William Harris made Jun 9 at 2023 1:59 PM

SSgt William Harris — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 13:59:04 -0400

I trust in GOD through JESUS!

Response by CSM Raymond Swartling made Jun 9 at 2023 2:28 PM

CSM Raymond Swartling — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 14:28:53 -0400

i read to keep focus and helps remetimember wording plus i socialize with a groupfrieds play cards one a month i also go yo gym several times a week

Response by PO3 Eric Sweeten made Jun 9 at 2023 3:42 PM

PO3 Eric Sweeten — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 15:42:49 -0400

I have a personal trainer that I meet with three days a week. I also try and walk at least one hour per day while the sun's out.

Response by SSgt Natalie Elliott made Jun 9 at 2023 5:01 PM

SSgt Natalie Elliott — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 17:01:08 -0400

I walk in nature, found a good therapist, practice breath work, exercise, and find things to make me laugh. Lots of laughter!

Response by MSgt David Revelle made Jun 9 at 2023 9:36 PM

MSgt David Revelle — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 21:36:43 -0400

To maintain my mental health I share feelings good or bad with my wife. It helps to talk what I feel and hear myself saying it out loud. It helps to get her feed back.

Response by Sgt Russell Riddle made Jun 10 at 2023 1:21 AM

Sgt Russell Riddle — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 01:21:37 -0400

Counseling is a big help for me; aside from that, spending as much time with family and in nature is therapy as well.

Response by SGT Frank Cosner made Jun 10 at 2023 7:38 AM

SGT Frank Cosner — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 07:38:01 -0400

Get out on the motorcycle or go to the beach to get away from everything. Recently I mowed both my neighbor's yards. Made me feel very good to help them out because they had issues that prevented them from getting it done. Received a huge homemade apple pie from one of them as a gift. :)

Response by SPC Rick Price made Jun 10 at 2023 12:44 PM

SPC Rick Price — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 12:44:26 -0400

Mental health May is my favorite month. Since it is June tho, mental awareness doesn’t stop!
Work on my sleep
Meditate
Exercise atleast 5 days a week
Good nutrition
Take my meds
Communicate how I am feeling

Response by SGT John Peery made Jun 10 at 2023 4:06 PM

SGT John Peery — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 16:06:01 -0400

Being aware of your thoughts and feelings. Maintain awareness of your of your surroundings

Response by PO1 Yolanda Ward made Jun 10 at 2023 11:19 PM

PO1 Yolanda Ward — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 23:19:07 -0400

I volunteer at my church and fellowship with multiple sick and shut in members and it keeps me from being so selfish; but think of other peoples needs. The conversations and visits help me appreciate their gifts and talents as well as be grateful for my daily blessings as well. This humble exchange of time along with camaraderie, has always encouraged me to remain focused on helping others by maintaining clarity of my mental health needs and physical wellness in conjunction with theirs.

Response by SPC Angela Kozak-Embrey made Jun 11 at 2023 3:43 PM

SPC Angela Kozak-Embrey — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 15:43:32 -0400

I have a spectrum of tools in my mental health tool box. First and most importantly, my husband is my #1 cheerleader. He pushes me forward when I want to give up. I have a safe and supportive counselor that I grow with on a weekly basis. I have a cocktail of psychotropic medication that helps regulate my brain chemicals since they became uneven after my combat deployment. I practice yoga in the park with my husband twice per week. I spend quality time with my niece and spoil her to no end. I talk to my brother on q daily basis and he helps provide insight into qualms I may be experiencing. I give back to my community by spending my time at the local dog shelter. I like to spend time with the dogs that are the most stressed;I can relate to that feeling and I don't want to give up on them. I enjoy hiking and exploring everything that California has to offer me. Getting out of the city soothes my soul. I use all of my earned VA benefits and am continuously trying new VA programs such as Whole Person care. I go to weekly massage therapy and accupuncture in the community for chronic pain. I reach out to my best friend when things get tough and she helps me find the humor in things. All of these tools must be in place or I notice a dip in my mental health.

Response by SP6 Winfried Renken made Jun 11 at 2023 10:17 PM

SP6 Winfried Renken — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 22:17:39 -0400

fish and hunt

Response by Keith Ming made Jun 12 at 2023 10:58 AM

Keith Ming — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 10:58:52 -0400

Ride my Harley Davidson i get on and roll down the road by the time i get home all the funk is blown off. Thats how i improve my mental health!!

Response by CPL Nathan Gronau made Jun 12 at 2023 2:51 PM

CPL Nathan Gronau — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:51:28 -0400

Afghanistan Vet here, I usually call my fellow brothers in arms and take some time to catch up with what's going on in their lives, updating one another on family, friends and just over all check-up on life. Aside from that I echo the many great responses I have been reading on here, and volunteer time to help at the D.A.V. charity organization, or pitch in weekends many different ways while volunteering at the local 'till your back on your feet veterans village. Lastly, when i find some of my mental health struggles are piling up, I take a step back and soak in everything I have built in my life for the better. I look at my two wonderful children, I look at my goofy dog, and my aging but beautiful home, and I just take it all in and think of where I would be without them. Sometime reflection is the best therapy.

Response by SA James Baumhardt made Jun 12 at 2023 6:42 PM

SA James Baumhardt — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 18:42:18 -0400

With the help of famlily I am losing weight, getting fit and getting over depression!

Response by Cpl Frank Birkemeier made Jun 12 at 2023 10:21 PM

Cpl Frank Birkemeier — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 22:21:33 -0400

Find purpose, it doesn't always have to be a big goal. If your at work, fix the small problem by giving it your all or checking on a team mate. If you're home with the family, try to make someone laugh as hard they can and spread love. Same with everywhere you go and everything you do. Never give yourself time with a bad mental place.

Response by CPT Erika Miller made Jun 13 at 2023 11:32 AM

CPT Erika Miller — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:32:36 -0400

It's a struggle with 3 young kids and a job. Thankfully the husband is retired and does a lot. I have been working on breathwork sometimes and working with/talking to VA mental health folks.

Response by CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton made Jun 13 at 2023 11:47 AM

CMSgt Elbert E. Clayton — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:47:10 -0400

I am a member of The Metro East Vet Center. Address. 228 West Pointe Drive. Swansea, IL and I try to attend my group's meetings every Wednesday of each week at 1300 hours. While the other group members may say I talk too much, I respond that it is a relief valve to hear their life stories and experiences and my participation in these discussions is a mental health maintenance and improvement goal I seek and receive each week. Currently, I am the oldest age attendee in my group, and we recently enjoyed several new and younger members. While it is not a pleasure to hear their recitations of Military Service, conflict, and woundings of body, mind and soul, it does give a feeling of pride that our Country is still producing Heroes. There are other things I do as I age to maintain and improve my mental health, but my physical health seems to deteriorate faster than I like to admit. Because of the knowledge that so many other veterans served and suffered far greater bodily and mental damages than I, it behooves me to hear those stories and offer thanks for just being alive and kicking. And one final note I might add is this: My wife maintained and protected our home and hearth and only child for over 12 years while I served isolated tours, including two in Vietnam. She was a disabled person all those years and many more. How she has maintained her mental health is a bewilderment to me and I think everyone who has a spouse should reflect upon our spouses when we bemoan our own service inflicted frailties (mental and physical).

Response by SSgt Vasti Walsh made Jun 13 at 2023 1:08 PM

SSgt Vasti Walsh — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:08:03 -0400

Simplifying Life for Improved Mental Health
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and burdened by the numerous responsibilities and distractions that surround us. However, by adopting a mindful approach and making small changes, we can create a more balanced and mentally healthy lifestyle. Here are some practical steps that I've taken and that can help simplify your life and promote mental well-being.

1. Streamlining Digital Clutter:
In our digital age, it's common to be bombarded with a constant influx of information. Start by decluttering your virtual spaces such as your email inbox, social media groups, and the people you follow. If something doesn't serve you or support your mental well-being, consider letting it go. Unfollow or hide posts from those that bring negativity or distraction into your life, and creating a more peaceful online environment.

2. Wardrobe Revamp:
Simplifying your wardrobe can save you time and energy when it comes to deciding what to wear. Take the opportunity to box up any clothing items you no longer wear and store them under your bed or in the closet. By reducing the options, you'll eliminate decision fatigue and make getting dressed a breeze.

3. Tackling Visual Distractions:
Visual clutter can contribute to mental clutter. Identify items in your living space that are visually distracting and causing mental strain. If an item needs to be returned, fixed, recycled, or thrown away, take action accordingly. Designate specific times, like Wednesday evenings, to address these tasks systematically, freeing up mental space and promoting a calmer environment.

4. Minimalism for Peace of Mind:
Consider embracing a minimalist lifestyle by decluttering unnecessary possessions. Donate items to thrift stores, contribute books, magazines, and games to free libraries in your neighborhood, and recycle or discard what can't be repurposed. If overwhelm persists, temporarily switch to recyclable plates, bowls, and cups to alleviate stress associated with household chores.

5. Prioritizing Self-Care:
Recognize the importance of self-care in maintaining mental well-being. Evaluate your capacity to cook and plan meals accordingly, being honest with yourself about what is feasible. Create a comprehensive list of everything that's bothering you or requires your attention. Categorize the tasks, identify those that can be postponed, seek help when needed, and prioritize the time-sensitive or critical ones.

6. Seeking Professional Support:
If mental health challenges persist, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional. Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician who can guide you through potential treatment options, therapy, or resources available through the VA. Prioritize rest, ensuring you have enough sleep and allowing yourself to take naps when necessary. Regular exercise, like walking, can also benefit your mental health, boosting energy levels and overall well-being.

7. Organizing Your Environment:
Creating an organized and tidy living space can have a positive impact on your mental state. Begin by thoroughly cleaning your car, entryway, bathroom, and kitchen. Take care of your laundry, either at home or a laundry mat for a quicker turnaround. Consider sprucing up your yard, as a well-maintained outdoor space can promote relaxation and peace of mind.

Conclusion:
While maintaining mental health may be challenging, especially for those dealing with ongoing struggles, simplifying your life can provide a solid foundation for overall well-being. Start small, tackling tasks like cleaning your inbox and managing social media, even from the comfort of your bed. By implementing these strategies, you can gradually create a more streamlined and mentally healthy lifestyle.

Response by SGT Jason Huskie made Jun 14 at 2023 9:51 AM

SGT Jason Huskie — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:51:51 -0400

Daily walks in nature help me find my center each morning. Everything is easier to handle after I have had that quiet time to reflect. Late at night when I’m having to trouble dealing with nightmares or invasive thoughts, I take myself to my workshop and do some woodcarving or furniture building. Getting out of my head and being productive allows me to distract myself instead of entering that negative spiral of emotions.

If all else fails, I reach out to a veteran friend or veteran family member just to talk about unimportant things. It’s a reminder that my problems aren’t actually all-consuming.

Response by SFC Michael Fortner made Jun 14 at 2023 3:47 PM

SFC Michael Fortner — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 15:47:02 -0400

I practice breathing techniques with heart, try to continue doing my PT exercises, spend time with my wife and focus on the things that I can control. And then, take it one day and some times, one moment at a time and try to remain positive.

Response by PFC Malcolm Brown made Jun 14 at 2023 10:07 PM

PFC Malcolm Brown — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 22:07:53 -0400

Medicate.

Response by CPT Ronald Brockway made Jun 15 at 2023 11:42 AM

CPT Ronald Brockway — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 11:42:47 -0400

I do crossword puzzles, sudoko, and the daily Wordle to keep sharp.

Response by CPL James Hoskins made Jun 16 at 2023 1:11 PM

CPL James Hoskins — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 13:11:03 -0400

i play games on computer like board games, and puzzles

Response by RallyPoint News made Jun 26 at 2023 1:06 PM

RallyPoint News — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 13:06:34 -0400

Congratulations to the following members. You've all won a $100 Amazon gift card! An e-gift card will be sent to the email address associated with your RallyPoint account.

» CPL ElizaBeth Bell
» SrA Don Oberlies
» SCPO Jack Carlsen
» Cpl Rosemarie SantaAnna
» SGT Jimmy Moon
» SP5 Robert Mermelstein
» SPC James Vanderhoof
» SGT Terry Wosmek
» SPC Christopher Lupica
» SP5 Walter Godsoe

Response by PO1 Mike Meehan made Jul 12 at 2023 9:46 AM

PO1 Mike Meehan — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 09:46:01 -0400

I focus on 3 things: 1. Proper rest. I do everything I can to get the same amount of sleep, at the same time, every night. This is much easier now that I'm retired from the USN. 2. Daily physical activity. I think this does without saying. 3. Daily mindfulness/meditation.

Response by Jessie Wiley made Jul 20 at 2023 3:03 AM

Jessie Wiley — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 03:03:01 -0400

I stop smoking, drinking and eating meats I also purchased and exercise machine
I no longer drink soda beverages and watch my sugar intake, I have alot more energy, lost a few pounds. I think everyone should try this method I am now 68 years old

Response by SSG Robert Perrotto made Apr 8 at 2024 2:31 PM

SSG Robert Perrotto — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 14:31:50 -0400

One aspect I prioritize is daily mindfulness meditation. I take even just a few minutes each day to sit quietly, focus on my breathing, and observe my thoughts. For this, I use the app Calmer. It has guided meditation and breathing exercises that make it easier for me to concentrate than doing it by myself. Here's the link to it, in case someone might need such a tool: https://gocalmer.com/.

Another important component of my mental health regimen is regular physical activity. Going for a jog, practicing yoga, and simply walking outdoors are my favorites.

Also, I make an effort to maintain a healthy work-life balance. This means setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and knowing when to disconnect from work responsibilities to recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.

Anxiety & Panic Attack Relief App - Calmer

Calmer is a free anxiety & panic attack relief app. Say goodbye to panic attacks, decrease anxiety & stress and sleep like a child again.

Response by Kamden Vazquez made Apr 8 at 2024 7:42 PM

Kamden Vazquez — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 19:42:58 -0400

It's important to acknowledge that mental health issues like PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of gender. I recently came across some information about antisocial personality disorder in women, and it's something that's often overlooked or misunderstood. Here's a link I found that sheds some light on the topic: https://www.mentalhealth.com/disorder/antisocial-personality-disorder-aspd/antisocial-personality-disorder-in-women . Your willingness to engage in meaningful conversations, whether solving the world's problems or simply listening, is invaluable. It's evident that you're not only making a difference in the lives of others but also taking care of your own mental well-being through staying active and engaged.

Antisocial personality disorder in women

Although antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is more common in men, it can affect people of any gender, and symptoms may present differently in women.

Response by Millson Gray made Apr 10 at 2024 8:36 AM

Millson Gray — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:36:24 -0400

It's amazing to see how you're actively engaged in your community, supporting various groups, from veterans to the homeless and grieving. Your commitment to making a difference is truly commendable. I'm particularly touched by your involvement with "butterflies are Free" and providing hope to those who need it most. It's those little gestures of kindness that can truly brighten someone's day.

Response by Sgt Dennis Peskey made Apr 25 at 2024 10:37 AM

Sgt Dennis Peskey — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:37:24 -0400

Golf.