PTSD Support Group helps women veterans to cope and heal from traumatic experiences

HUNTSVILLE – Women who are facing trauma after serving (or during active service) in the military can find a safe space with American Legion, Post 237 in Huntsville.

The post endorses the PTSD Support Group for women with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. The group meets monthly at Clayton E. Moneymaker American Legion, Post 237 at 2900 Drake Ave. SW in Huntsville.

The support group’s next meeting will be on Jan. 13 from 11 to 12:30 p.m. at Post 237. The Invisible Warriors organization coordinates these in-person sessions in Huntsville for women veterans with PTSD and other invisible illnesses.

PTSD can manifest after a life-threatening event like military combat, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, serious accidents or violent assaults like rape. (legion237.com) After time to heal, most trauma survivors recover to normalcy. However, some people retain threatened feelings that don’t dissolve or may worsen. These individuals may develop PTSD.

People dealing with PTSD often have nightmares, flashbacks or insomnia. These symptoms can degrade a person’s daily routine.

“PTSD is marked by clear physical and psychological symptoms. It often has symptoms like depression, substance abuse, problems of memory and cognition and other physical and mental health problems,” according to Post 237’s website, legion237.com.

“The disorder is also associated with difficulties in social or family life, including occupational instability, marital problems, family discord and difficulties in parenting,” according to Post 237.

Post 237’s support group also confronts Military Sexual Trauma or MST, the term that the Department of Veterans Affairs uses to refer to experiences of sexual assault or sexual harassment experienced during military service.

Numerous examples of MST exist: • Pressure into sexual activities, like threats of negative treatment if a person refuses to submit or promises of better treatment for agreeing.

• Sexual contact or activities without consent. The person may be asleep or drunk.

• Overpowering force to have sex.

• Touching or grabbing with sexual connotation that caused discomfort, including hazing.

• Threatening statements from a person about your body or habits.

• Unwanted sexual advances that you found threatening.

The PTSD Support Group offers a safe and private space where individuals can connect and share their experiences with others who understand. Post 237 prioritizes confidentiality and empathy, ensuring a supportive environment for healing and growth.

American Legion, Post 237 is a member of Madison Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, visit legion237. com or invisiblewarriors.org/events.