Welcome to “Break the Silence” a Warriors and Quiet Waters Campaign. The goal of this campaign is to reach out to all Veterans who may be struggling with mental health disorders. We believe that every veteran deserves the opportunity to take a journey of renewal to help them find the resiliency that they need to navigate the journey toward mental wellness.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to provide a resource so that veterans can find solace, strength, and support in their everyday lives. Through Warriors & Quiet Waters therapeutic outdoor experiences connected with, peer camaraderie, and holistic wellness initiatives, we empower veterans to reclaim their sense of purpose and rediscover the freedom to live life to the fullest, giving Veterans a renewed sense of purpose.
Take the first step in “Breaking Your Silence” today, and together, let's pave the way to a future filled with hope, healing, and boundless possibilities.
When veterans return from active duty, alcohol and other drugs may be used as a form of self-medication. Self-medication is often used to cope with feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health conditions. The psychological effects of military service can feel unmanageable, and turning to substances may feel like the managing of symptoms.
Alcohol and other drugs provide veterans with temporary relief from symptoms they may be experiencing. However, increased levels of substance use can ultimately lead to consequences in the long term.
They may be afraid of being labeled as weak or defective, and they may worry that others will judge them harshly or look down on them. This stigma can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, preventing veterans from getting the support they need to manage their symptoms and cope with their experiences.
44% to 72% of Veterans experience high levels of stress and anxiety during their transition from Military to Civilian life.
If you're experiencing chronic exhaustion, cynicism, detachment from your job or personal life, a sense of ineffectiveness, and a decline in performance, or physical symptoms, you might be moving toward burnout.
Signs of anxiety include: increased heart rate, sweating and or clammy hands, feeling restless, trembling, difficulty breathing, feeling full in your throat or chest, feeling dizzy or lightheaded, stomachaches, nausea, difficulty sleeping, feeling on edge, irritable, worrying over daily decisions, fear of future
Some of the signs and symptoms of depression in veterans can include: Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness. Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration. Loss of interest in activities.
PTSD is characterized by intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares related to past trauma, leading to avoidance of reminders, hyper-vigilance, and sleep difficulties. Frequently, reliving the event can evoke a sense of threat as intense as the original trauma.
There are many different ways that a Veteran can combat the effects of Mental health such as; proper sleep, exercise, diet, & social gatherings. An impactful and long lasting avenue is through programs such as Warriors & Quiet Waters. This organization provides a remarkable opportunity for Veterans to engage in therapeutic outdoor experiences designed to promote healing and personal growth. Warriors & Quiet Waters offers a supportive environment where Veterans can connect with nature, learn new skills, and build camaraderie with fellow Veterans.
We bring Warriors to our ranch in southwestern Montana, providing a safe, secure environment – created by our volunteers, guides, and other veterans – that feels like home. Here, Warriors find space to make meaning of their service and discover what a purposeful life means to them.
“This week was about so much more than just fishing. In terms of helping me indirectly with my mental health, this has been the most impactful program I have been exposed to as a veteran.”
- Rob Griggs
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After my first Fishing Experience (FX) with Warriors & Quiet Waters (WQW), I knew I had found something incredible. Looking at the person I was that day and the person I am today, the two don’t even compare. My time with WQW has been transformative, to say the least. I can honestly say that no single part of my life hasn’t been affected by WQW. I have been able to understand my purpose and find how to live a more fulfilling and thriving life. Learn More