08/11/2024
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As we approach Remembrance Sunday, here's a gentle reminder about supporting our veterans with sensitivity and understanding:
For many veterans, November can be an intensely challenging month. While Remembrance Sunday is a time of national reflection, for those who served, it can trigger deeply personal memories and emotions that don't need external reminders.
Some veterans may experience heightened symptoms of trauma during this period, including difficulty sleeping, increased anxiety, and overwhelming emotions. What for many is a day of commemoration can for others be a stark reminder of faces and friends lost, and experiences that remain painfully fresh.
If you know a veteran, please understand that they may wish to observe this time privately. There's no need to ask about their experiences or remind them of the significance of the day. Instead, simply being present and available if needed can be the most supportive approach. A simple "How are you doing today?" can mean more than any well-intentioned but potentially triggering remarks.
Remember that each veteran's experience is unique, and there is no "right way" to observe this period. Some may wish to participate in formal ceremonies, while others may prefer quiet reflection or to treat it as any other day.
If you're a veteran struggling during this time, please know that support is always available. You don't have to face these challenges alone.
We honour our veterans not just by remembering, but by understanding and respecting their individual needs during this significant time.
