Veteran Spouse Network

The Veteran Spouse Network is dedicating our May focus to the often unseen reality of caregiving. For many, caregiving shows up as daily emotional support and the constant invisible work of keeping everything together.

Data from the Military and Veteran Spouse Wellbeing Survey (MVSWS) shows that over half of caregivers experience caregiver burden and other associated problems. They report higher rates of anxiety, depression, insomnia, and lower relationship satisfaction compared to non-caregivers.

The burnout many feel are not signs of personal failure; they are the reality of a demanding role. Acknowledging the weight of that role is the first step toward getting the support you actually need. You don't have to carry this alone.

This month, join our special caregiving event on May 27th — My Journey: Caregiving, a community discussion where veteran spouse caregivers share their experiences.

Register (at the link in bio) here: https://na2.hubs.ly/H05jzs20

Supporting a service member or veteran often means being the first line of defense during tough times. You are the one who notices the small changes and hears the things others might miss. Because you stand by them every day, having the right tools to handle a crisis can make all the difference for your family and your community.

Build your skill set with 4 FREE trainings this May to equip you with life-saving skills.

CALM Conversations (May 7, 9-10:30am CDT) Learn to navigate difficult conversations about safe storage of lethal means. This evidence-based training empowers you to reduce risk and offer meaningful support.

Safety Planning Intervention (May 7, 11am-2:30pm CDT) Master the 7-step safety planning approach through hands-on practice and real-life scenarios.

From Knowledge to Action: Responding to Su***de Risk (May 7, 3-5pm CDT) Advanced crisis response training combining C-SSRS assessment and Mental Health First Aid. Prerequisites apply.

Mental Health First Aid + CALM (May 14, 8am-4pm CDT) Full-day comprehensive training covering mental health challenges and lethal means safety.

Register now: https://na2.hubs.ly/H05dNdz0