PTSD – LET’S REFRAME THE CONVERSATION
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Day – Let’s Reframe the Conversation
June 27th marks PTSD Awareness Day—a time to recognize the battles that continue long after the mission is over. For many in our Ranger community, the word “disorder” can feel like a label that doesn’t fit. Most of us can recite the Ranger Creed forward and backwards and we know it says nothing about disorder. In fact, life in the Regiment is anything but disordered. Most who have served in the Regiment understand the horrors of war. Many of you have stood in the face of chaos, done what few can, and shouldered more than your share task, 100% and then some. So, if you are suffering from some of the ill-effects of close combat, what you’re feeling isn’t weakness or disorder—it’s the natural cost of operating in the unnatural realm. It is simply not natural to watch a buddy bleed out on the battlefield, try to hold a comrade’s brain matter in place with your bare hands, or put guys into body bags when they are burned beyond recognition. If you are carrying those kinds of loads on your own, you need a Ranger Buddy.
PTSD isn’t a character flaw. It’s a wound of the soul, mind, and body. And just like any battlefield injury, it deserves real attention. Remember back to the old night jump and follow on movement to daylight? When a guy broke his leg on that training jump, he did not do the follow-on foot movement—so why try to walk through life with an untreated wound? The good news is healing is possible. The other good news is you don’t have to do it alone. Talk to someone. Reach out. Back your Ranger brothers. Make some wellness checks. Get in the truck and drive to see an old Ranger Buddy who may be hurting! Real strength isn’t staying Stoic and silent—it’s taking action to help yourself and/or a Ranger buddy in need.
Let me encourage you with a reminder from the Psalms--
“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
If you need some help or know someone who does reach out to TRF or any of the other Ranger Organizations. Whether you are struggling a little or a lot, most of us know people who can help you. This PTSD Awareness Day don’t get hung up on the title. What is important is getting better. Know that there is no shame in seeking healing. Faith reminds us that even the strongest warriors need restoration. And in God’s eyes, there’s always hope—always a way forward.
Rangers Lead The Way!
Dan Knight
Spiritual Fitness Director
Three Rangers Foundation