The military provides a strict discipline, structure, camaraderie, and purpose. It is in honor and service. Once in the civilian world, the connectedness, support, and purpose are lost. Combined with internal wounds of TBI, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, Veterans have a challenging time being accepted into society and given a chance with work.
Horticulture therapy is one example where a sense of brotherhood is felt again while building skills and diminishing depression. The program gives hope, purpose, and proficiency for a career outside the military.
To bridge the gap between civilian and military environments, a practiced discipline, structure, and personal community need to be created. It can be accomplished through building homes for the homeless, providing disaster relief after a natural disaster such as an earthquake, hurricane, tornado, tsunami, or volcanic eruption. The premise is that the wounded warrior is helping themselves while serving others. The focus naturally enables mindfulness practices, living in the here-and-now which in turn manages uncomfortable emotions, and continues their values of dedication and purpose to serve. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YKb-qWfh9E
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