How to handle it — for veterans, in the moment
Practical moves for the tough stretches after service.
Something's set it off — a sound, a smell, a date — and you're back there.
— Right now
- Ground yourself: this is a memory, not happening now. You're safe in this moment.
- Name five things you can see, four you can hear. Pull yourself into the present.
- Feet on the floor, slow exhales. Let the body learn the threat's not here.
— Don't
- Don't fight it or drink it down. Ride the wave — it peaks and passes.
— Later
- Open Arms 1800 011 046 (free, 24/7, for vets and families) understands exactly this.
Something's set it off — a sound, a smell, a date — and you're back there.
— Right now
- Ground yourself: this is a memory, not happening now. You're safe in this moment.
- Name five things you can see, four you can hear. Pull yourself into the present.
- Feet on the floor, slow exhales. Let the body learn the threat's not here.
— Don't
- Don't fight it or drink it down. Ride the wave — it peaks and passes.
— Later
- Open Arms 1800 011 046 (free, 24/7, for vets and families) understands exactly this.
Veterans: the short version
- 1.Triggered? It's a memory, not now. Ground and breathe.
- 2.Lost without the uniform? Reconnect with one mate.
- 3.Anger's a trained response — it can be retrained.
- 4.Free, 24/7: Open Arms 1800 011 046.
- 5.Dark? Open Arms or Lifeline 13 11 14. Don't decide big.
Doing it tough?Call Lifeline 13 11 14