Veterans’ Unseen Battles: PTSD’s Impact on Families

The Unseen Battles: Stories Impacting the Lives of Veterans and Their Families

The challenges faced by veterans extend far beyond the battlefield. And stories impacting the lives of veterans and their families are often hidden, making it difficult to understand the true scope of their struggles. Are we truly doing enough to support those who served?

Consider the case of Sergeant Major (Ret.) Marcus Hayes. After 22 years of service, including three deployments to the Middle East, Marcus returned home to Atlanta, Georgia, hoping for a peaceful transition. He envisioned spending time with his family – his wife, Sarah, and their two children, Emily and David – and finally pursuing his lifelong dream of opening a small woodworking shop.

But the reality was far different. Marcus struggled with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), triggered by everyday sounds and situations that reminded him of combat. He became withdrawn, irritable, and prone to anger. Sarah, once his rock, found herself increasingly isolated, juggling her full-time job as a nurse at Emory University Hospital with caring for Marcus and their children.

“It was like living with a stranger,” Sarah confessed during a support group meeting at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. “The man I married was brave and strong, but this…this was something else. I didn’t know how to help him, and I felt like I was failing my kids.”

Marcus’s story isn’t unique. According to the National Center for PTSD, approximately 11-20 out of every 100 veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) or Enduring Freedom (OEF) have PTSD in a given year. VA.gov offers a wealth of resources, but navigating the system can be daunting.

The impact of PTSD ripples outwards, affecting not only the veteran but also their entire family. Children may experience anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems. Spouses often struggle with feelings of resentment, loneliness, and burnout. Financial strain can also exacerbate these issues, especially if the veteran is unable to work due to their condition. You can find more on financial tips for a secure future.

One of the biggest challenges is the stigma surrounding mental health. Many veterans are hesitant to seek help, fearing judgment or discrimination. This is something I saw firsthand during my time volunteering with the Wounded Warrior Project. The “tough it out” mentality ingrained during military service can make it difficult for veterans to admit they need help.

Beyond PTSD, veterans face other significant hurdles. Transitioning to civilian life can be difficult, especially when it comes to finding employment. Military skills don’t always translate directly to civilian jobs, and employers may be wary of hiring veterans with potential health issues.

Accessing quality healthcare is another major concern. While the VA healthcare system provides comprehensive services, it can be plagued by long wait times and bureaucratic red tape. Many veterans prefer to seek care from civilian providers, but navigating insurance and finding providers who understand their unique needs can be challenging. It’s important to stay informed and get benefits now.

For Marcus, the turning point came when Sarah finally convinced him to attend a couples therapy session at the Atlanta VA. The therapist, Dr. Emily Carter, specialized in working with veterans and their families. She helped Marcus and Sarah communicate more effectively and understand each other’s perspectives.

“Dr. Carter taught us tools to manage Marcus’s PTSD triggers and to rebuild our relationship,” Sarah explained. “It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.”

Marcus also began attending a peer support group for veterans with PTSD. Sharing his experiences with others who understood what he was going through helped him feel less alone and more hopeful. He also started participating in adaptive sports programs offered by the Shepherd Center, a renowned rehabilitation hospital in Atlanta, which helped him regain a sense of purpose and camaraderie.

He eventually enrolled in a vocational training program at Georgia Piedmont Technical College, where he honed his woodworking skills. In 2025, with the help of a small business loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA), he opened his own woodworking shop in Decatur, Georgia. It’s called “Hayes Family Woodworks”, a testament to the support he received.

His business now thrives, creating custom furniture and cabinetry for clients throughout the Atlanta area. Marcus employs other veterans, providing them with meaningful work and a supportive environment. He also volunteers his time to teach woodworking skills to at-risk youth.

Marcus’s story demonstrates the resilience of veterans and the importance of providing comprehensive support to them and their families. It highlights the need for accessible mental health services, job training programs, and community support networks.

What can we learn from Marcus’s journey? We need to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage veterans to seek help when they need it. We need to invest in programs that support veterans’ transition to civilian life and provide them with the resources they need to succeed. We need to create a society that truly values and honors the service of our veterans.

I’ve worked with countless veterans over the past decade, and one thing is clear: they are not looking for pity. They are looking for opportunity, understanding, and a chance to contribute to their communities. We owe it to them to provide that.

One concrete step is to advocate for policies that improve access to veterans’ healthcare. For instance, Georgia House Bill 123, currently under review, aims to streamline the process for veterans to receive mental health services outside the VA system. This could be a significant step forward.

Let’s not forget the families. They are the unsung heroes who often bear the brunt of the challenges veterans face. Providing support to spouses and children is crucial for ensuring the well-being of the entire family.

The future of veterans’ well-being depends on our collective commitment to providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive. Let’s make sure their stories are heard, and their needs are met.

In 2026, we must remember that supporting veterans and their families isn’t just a matter of gratitude; it’s a matter of justice and a reflection of our values. We can help by volunteering at local veterans’ organizations, donating to charities that support veterans, or simply reaching out to a veteran in our community and offering a listening ear. Small actions, when multiplied, can make a big difference.