P.O. Box 142, Umatilla, FL 32784
Our Story
One Team One Fight 4 PTSD
On March 30th, 2015, our founder (an infantry combat veteran, who also battles post-traumatic stress/traumatic brain injury) started this mission in honor of his "Battle Buddy" that took his life due inner battle wounds. He set out to bring a better awareness of the epidemic suicide rate among U.S. veterans (minimum rate of 22 a day) and the stigma associated with post-traumatic stress/traumatic brain injuries.
The awareness would travel 22 miles through 22 cities of Lake County, Florida. One day each week with military boots, a boonie hat, our American flag, a ruck sack weighing 150 pounds (to simplify the average weight of a soldier carried in combat), and a simple sign stating the reason of these marches. Those that stopped him and inquired about his march were simply informed with a single statement, "Please, reach out to our veterans"!
This journey would bring attention to reporters, social media, and other like minded individuals.
In May of 2015, One Team One Fight 4 PTSD would soon be created as a not-for-profit organization by close friends with the same vision; "assist those battling inner wounds with positive out reach assistance". (February 2016 (501(c)3) non-profit established).
Overview
After surviving a traumatic event, many people have PTS-like symptoms at first, such as being unable to stop thinking about what's happened. Fear, anxiety, anger, depression, guilt — all are common reactions to trauma. However, the majority of people exposed to trauma do not develop long-term post-traumatic stress disorder.
Getting timely help and support may prevent normal stress reactions from getting worse and developing into PTS. This may mean turning to family and friends who will listen and offer comfort. It may mean seeking out a mental health professional for a brief course of therapy. Some people may also find it helpful to turn to their faith community.
Support from others also may help prevent you from turning to unhealthy coping methods, such as misuse of alcohol or drugs.
