During the holiday season, many families in the United States anticipate joyful gatherings and moments of gratitude. However, for military and veteran families, this time can be fraught with challenges. While others celebrate, service members, veterans, caregivers, and survivors often grapple with invisible burdens such as grief, trauma, and isolation. The weight of these challenges does not lessen simply because the calendar marks a festive time.
The sacrifices made by those who serve the nation are considerable. They deploy to distant locations, endure long separations from loved ones, and confront dangers that most civilians will never experience. When their service concludes or when injury, illness, or loss alters their lives, society owes them more than mere words of appreciation. There is a profound obligation to provide care, connection, and meaningful action.
One of the most pressing concerns within the military and veteran community is the alarming rate of suicide. These figures represent real individuals—sons, daughters, spouses, and parents—who once pledged their commitment to service and later found themselves struggling with mental health issues. The holiday season can exacerbate these feelings of despair, as loneliness intensifies and painful memories resurface. Financial stress and family pressures do not ease during this time, often leading to deeper feelings of isolation when others are celebrating.
At the Fisher House Foundation, the realities of this situation are evident. Many families find themselves away from home, staying near hospitals while their loved ones receive critical care. Caregivers frequently battle exhaustion, striving to maintain a sense of normalcy for their children while quietly confronting their own uncertainties about the future.
Over more than three decades of service, the foundation has learned a simple yet powerful truth: when families receive support, their healing is more effective. Knowing they are not alone provides a pathway for hope to flourish. Therefore, addressing the needs of the military and veteran community requires more than just medical intervention. Comprehensive support—encompassing mental health services, family stability, financial assistance, and human connection—is essential.
As the holiday season approaches, every individual can play a part in uplifting military families. A simple gesture such as checking in on a veteran or a military family member can make a significant difference. If someone has not been heard from in a while, reaching out through a call or text can demonstrate care and concern.
For those facing challenges, it is crucial to encourage them to seek support, reinforcing the idea that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Additionally, individuals can engage with organizations that offer direct assistance to military and veteran families. Volunteering time or resources can contribute to creating a supportive community.
This holiday season, it is vital to ensure that celebrations include compassion for those who may be struggling. The commitment to stand with military families should extend beyond the festive period, fostering a culture of ongoing support and understanding. Ken Fisher, chairman and CEO of the Fisher House Foundation, emphasizes that a collective effort can help alleviate the burdens faced by those who have given so much in service to their country.
