Member-only story
PTS(D) and Veterans’ Day
How civilians can help
Veterans who I have had deep conversations with have very mixed feelings about the phrase, “Thank you for your service.” Especially those who experience PTS(D).
In the worst cases, the phrase can be triggering to Veterans. By “thanking them” for their service, it may bring back specific painful instances or events for which the Veteran feels he or she should not be thanked. This can potentially lead to activation of trauma symptoms which the veteran may be attempting to work through.
That is not to say it is wrong for civilians to thank Veterans, but showing gratitude can take many forms. Words and posts on social media, while likely done with good intentions, are among the least actionable ways to do so.https://traumaprofessionals.com/going-beyond-the-controversial-thank-you-for-your-service/
This is not to imply that if you have used that phrase, you’ve done harm. My purpose in writing this article is not to make well-intentioned people feel bad. I just hope to bring awareness to things civilians can do to thank Veterans, that don’t include empty words on a Facebook post, or a once-a-year comment in place of helpful action.
Here are some organizations that could use your help:
