Wounded warriors learn skills to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder

Apr 6 2010

Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) and the National Ability Center (NAC) of Park City, Utah have partnered for a fourth year to host 15 wounded warriors from April 6-10 as part of WWP's Project Odyssey program. Project Odyssey brings together veterans with post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and readjustment challenges for activities that offer healthy support in the healing process. WWP, which hosted the first Project Odyssey at the NAC, has since expanded the program to six annually at various locations nationwide.

Over 37,000 of the nation's service men and women have been physically wounded during the current military conflicts. Hundreds of thousands more are estimated to be recovering from invisible wounds of war, including PTSD. WWP assists wounded warriors and their families through a holistic approach to their recovery, providing programs and services to aid their physical rehabilitation and improve their mental health and well-being.

"This program has the capacity to change lives," said Maggie Haynes, Director of Combat Stress for the Wounded Warrior Project. "We had a participant from a recent Odyssey who was significantly struggling. He now works as an Outreach Coordinator at a Vet Center, helping other young veterans. He will also be acting as a member of the support staff for this Odyssey.  It's so rewarding to see these warriors come full circle."  

Activities at NAC include skiing, snowboarding, a rope and belay course, and other activities that develop self-confidence and improve mental attitudes. Warriors also benefit from group activities that encourage peer support and provide the opportunity to forge the close bonds many have not had since leaving their units.

VA Readjustment Counseling Service staff has partnered with WWP for Project Odyssey. Vet Center staff members are present to support the therapeutic components of the program. Private and group sessions with Vet Center counselors and staff are held throughout the time at NAC.  These activities allow veterans to continue the counseling process in an atmosphere of trust and understanding without the fear or stigma often associated with mental health issues.  

Due to the sensitive and personal nature of this topic, media will only be allowed at selected times. Please call Natalia Rankine-Galloway at (212) 629-8881 for more information.