Veteran Mental Health and the Holidays: Managing Triggers and Expectations
Thanksgiving is often described as a time for gratitude, family, and celebration. But for many veterans, this season can be complicated. Crowds, noise, and heightened emotions can bring up old memories or feelings that make it hard to relax or enjoy the holiday. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Struggling during this season does not mean you are weak. It means you are human and your experiences deserve care and attention.
Why the Holidays Can Be Difficult for Veterans
The holiday season can highlight things that feel missing or out of reach. You might be grieving someone you served with, feeling disconnected from family, or simply overwhelmed by the change in routine. Some common challenges include:
Triggers from loud noises or crowded spaces. Things like family gatherings, fireworks, or even cheerful music can bring back memories from your time in service.
Disrupted routines. Travel, family visits, or a change in schedule can affect sleep, mood, and overall stability.
Pressure to feel grateful. Being told to “look on the bright side” can feel dismissive if you are struggling.
Loneliness or grief. Missing the camaraderie of your unit or feeling distant from others who do not share your experiences can be painful.
All of these feelings are normal. Acknowledging them is the first step in taking care of yourself.
Ways to Support Your Mental Health During Thanksgiving
Here are some practical ways to navigate the holiday season without feeling overwhelmed:
Make intentional choices about gatherings
You do not have to attend every event. Focus on the ones that feel supportive and skip the ones that drain you.
Keep routines where possible
Stick to your usual meals, sleep schedule, exercise, and medication routines. Familiar rhythms help you stay grounded.
Prepare for triggers
Know what situations tend to cause stress and plan for them. You might sit near an exit, bring headphones, or step outside when needed.
Redefine connection
Connection does not have to mean being in a large crowd. A quiet meal with one trusted friend, volunteering with a local veterans group, or sharing a phone call with someone you care about can provide meaningful connection.
Practice gentle gratitude
Gratitude can be healing, but it does not mean ignoring your pain. Notice small things you appreciate while also acknowledging the hard moments.
Reach out early
If you know this season is difficult, contact your therapist, doctor, or a trusted friend before the stress builds. Asking for support is a sign of strength.
When the Season Feels Overwhelming
The holidays can bring extra challenges, and that is okay. If you notice depression, anxiety, or trauma-related symptoms increasing, help is available. At Alleviant, we provide compassionate care for veterans, including traditional psychiatric services and advanced treatments like TMS therapy. These treatments can support your mental health when other approaches are not enough. If you ever feel in crisis, you can call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1 for immediate support.
