A Salute to Self-Care: Veterans Day and the Invisible Wounds

On this Veterans Day, Cobb Collaborative sends our upmost respect and gratitude for all of those who have so bravely served this country. We are so appreciative of the sacrifice.

In this article, we will be merging two of our initiatives-mental health and Veterans support. The attention and care shouldn’t stop after service, our Veterans need support maybe even more once they return to normal life. Veterans mental health, among all Veterans support, is critical. This Veterans Day, our respect must translate into actionable support. That’s why we’re shining a light on the critical work being done right here in Georgia to support our own, and the vital role that connection plays in healing.

Not all wounds are visible. Studies are clear that the transition back to civilian life includes many challenges and hard moments like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Veterans are 2x more likely to experience PTSD than a civilian. At some point in their life, 7 out of every 100 Veterans will experience PTSD. It also more common among female Veterans than male Veterans. Although, this data is based on those that report and seek out support for their struggles. There is unfortunately still such a stigma among those in the military and those who have served that can keep them from getting the professional help they may need.

One of our initiatives, Connecting Georgia Veterans, is doing such important work to support Veterans who may be struggling. Established in Cobb County, CGV works to connect Veterans with the help they need and have earned. CGV assembles and coordinates many resources for Veterans to build stable, fulfilling lives.

CGV is dedicated to eliminating the confusion and delays Veterans often face when trying to access care. Their approach ensures direct, timely access to a comprehensive network of mental health resources, as Program Director Tyler Bowser explains:

“Mental health is always something we need to be aware of while helping struggling Veterans. Even though a Veteran may not be diagnosed with a mental health condition, we encounter Veterans that are in a mini crisis or are experiencing acute depression based on certain circumstances. With a great network of mental health agencies we are able to connect those Veterans to the right resource to help them relieve their burden. “

CGV uses this local network and knowledge to swiftly connect Veterans with trusted counseling services, substance abuse treatment, and peer support—ensuring they get the right specialized resource to relieve their burden, and fast.

To better grasp the need for support in Georgia, here are some statistics:

• The Veteran suicide rate in Georgia has been similar to the national Veteran rate
• 1 in 5 veterans in Georgia suffers from substantial chronic stress
• Georgia ranks 49^th in mental healthcare access

The need for accessible, reliable mental health support has never been more urgent. We must dispel the myth that seeking help is a sign of weakness. It is, in fact, an act of profound strength—a continuation of the same courage and discipline Veterans displayed in service. Prioritizing your well-being is not a step back; it is the most critical mission of your life.

We know that transitioning to civilian life can often feel like a solo mission. The tight-knit unit structure Veterans relied on disappears, and the ensuing isolation is one of the most significant threats to mental health. CGV’s core mission is to rebuild that vital connection and provide accelerated solutions for the challenges that follow service.

CGV is dedicated to eliminating the confusion and delays Veterans often face when trying to access help. They focus on providing direct, timely access to critical services, with mental health being a top priority. This includes:

• Connecting Veterans with trusted counseling services that understand the unique challenges of military service.
• Offering resources for substance abuse treatment and recovery.
• Building a strong peer support network across Georgia, reminding Veterans that they are never alone in their next mission—the mission of self-care.

CGV understands the local landscape, the resources available in Georgia, and how to cut through the bureaucratic red tape so Veterans can get the help they need, fast. For CGV, connection is not just a service; it’s the foundation of well-being.

“Most, if not all Veterans that are experiencing homelessness are in some state of depressive disorder. It is important as we case manage these Veterans to recognize the symptoms and let the Veteran know there is hope and help available to them.” – Tyler Bowser, CGV Program Director

Honoring Veterans service means committing to their health—both physical and mental. True strength is recognizing when support is needed and then taking the courageous step to accept it. Here are four actionable steps you can take today:

• Reach Out to Your Tribe: Isolation is a silent enemy. This week, pick up the phone and call a buddy, an old squad mate, or a veteran you met recently. Check in, share a story, and listen. Rebuilding your social network is your first line of defense against stress and depression.
• Embrace the “New Mission”: Structure and routine were the bedrock of your military life. Implementing small, positive daily routines—like a 30-minute walk, a dedicated time for a hobby, or five minutes of quiet reflection—can restore a sense of control and stability. Treat these healthy habits with the same commitment you showed in uniform.
• Be Aware of the Warning Signs: Don’t ignore the signs of a struggle. Encourage yourself and your loved ones to learn the subtle indicators of stress or burnout, such as persistent trouble sleeping, increased irritability, withdrawal from activities you once enjoyed, or relying more heavily on alcohol. Early detection is key to recovery.
• Take the First Step to Connect: If you or a Georgia veteran you know is struggling, reaching out is the most critical act of self-care you can perform. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you are in crisis, please call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1 or texting 838255 immediately.

Today, as we honor the courage it took to serve, we also celebrate the courage it takes to seek help. Committing to your mental well-being is not a sign of weakness; it is the next vital mission in a life dedicated to service. You are trained to fight for your country, and now it’s time to fight for your own health and peace of mind.

This Veterans Day, honor your service by committing to your health. If you are a Georgia Veteran or know one who needs support, reach out to Connecting Georgia Veterans today. The first step is the hardest, but you don’t have to take it alone.