This week (May 11-13) is a special one for our Vietnam veterans.  A special "Welcome Home!" event will be taking place on the National Mall is Washington D.C. to honor Americans’ valiant service in Vietnam.  93 organizations will be exhibiting historic artifacts and providing veterans services.  Here are a few ways to take part no matter where you live: 

👉 If you live near Washington D.C., get all the details on the events:  https://www.mycg.uscg.mil/News/Article/3345477/honor-our-vietnam-veterans-this-weekend/

👉 If you're not in Washington D.C., you can still take time to honor and thank our veterans. 
-  Thank a veteran!   Write a letter of Thanks, even if you don't know a veteran personally.  The "A Million Thanks" organization will send it for you.  Details at https://amillionthanks.org/letter/

-  Find a commemorative event in YOUR area:  https://www.vietnamwar50th.com/events/

During April’s Stress Awareness Month, check out these three (free) VA apps that feature stress management tools to support your self-care.

PS - Don't know a veteran personally? Consider tapping "Share" below to raise awareness for these helpful tools.

1️⃣ Mindfullness Coach: The Mindfulness Coach app teaches you how to build a simple mindfulness practice. Mindfulness means noticing and paying attention to what is going on in the present moment.
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.va.mobilehealth.ncptsd.mindfulnesscoach
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/mindfulness-coach/id804284729

2️⃣ PTSD Coach: It was originally launched in 2011 to help veterans manage acute stress wherever and whenever it arises. Today, the app is very popular with Veterans, and its recent updates include many new tools and resources to help manage PTSD symptoms.
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=is.vertical.ptsdcoach
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ptsd-coach/id430646302

3️⃣ VetChange:  The VetChange app is designed to help anyone who is concerned about their drinking and would like to cut down or quit. You will gain insight into how your drinking relates to different moods and situations, learn about alcohol use and posttraumatic stress, and track your progress.
Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=pavir.explorer.vetchange
iOS: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/vetchange/id1550206382

📸: iStock

If you're a veteran (whether man or woman), finding pathways to live your best life can be challenging. This is where Warriors For Freedom comes in. With less talk, more action, veterans can find a large variety of ways to fit in.....whether low-key or all-in.

Their aim is to foster camaraderie and to help veterans and their families prevent suicide. And there are two ways you can take part - either as a volunteer or to join their programs as a veteran. Programs include hunting, fishing, scuba diving, golfing, and other recreational therapy.

👉 Give them a look whether you're wanting help OR you want to help other vets. https://www.warriorsforfreedom.org/

📸: Warriors For Freedom