The Veterans of Foreign Wars has partnered with Change Direction to help change the culture of mental health in America so that all of those in need receive the care and support they deserve. The Campaign encourages all Americans to pay attention to their emotional well-being – and it reminds us that our emotional well-being is just as important as our physical well-being.
The Five signs of emotional suffering are:
change in personality
agitation
withdrawal
decline in personal care
hopelessness
Carter-Smith VFW Post 5867 has conducted five Change Direction events since Oct. 2016, with a sixth scheduled for April 20, 2019 from 4:30-6pm in White Hall. Past Change Direction events have focused on education, awareness, and solidarity as a community in helping those who suffer.
In addition, we will be taking part in this year's, "A Week to Change Direction," June 9-15, 2019. A Week to Change Direction will be a week of action, advocacy, culture change and fundraising for organizations, corporations, universities, communities, and individuals! We will keep you posted as more information becomes available.
Our aim is to increase knowledge, raise awareness and increase support for efforts that are working to change the culture of mental health globally so that all in need receive the care and support they deserve.
Post 5867 has also conducted eleven Change Direction/Give An Hour community service projects related to mental health awareness. These projects have included several mental health awareness walks and hikes, a movie premiere, participating in community parades, and starting an AA style meeting for Combat Veterans who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and are also fighting a drug or alcohol addiction.
Together we can help stop the stigma of mental illness and ensure our Veterans get the help they deserve.
To learn more about the campaign to Change Direction visit www.changedirection.org/
Warning: The following video may be upsetting to some. This video by Chris and Morgane Stapleton showcases an important story – helping us better understand and recognize the challenges those with mental health issues face, and helping us to change the culture of mental health in America.
