The one regret is the loss of those who once cared and now are gone. Survivor’s guilt is a heavy crux, and the weight of exiting service can feel like pulling a dump truck.

Try breathing and taking deep breaths. Social isolation can seem devastating only to succumb to the realization all hope is lost. Breathing is a gift and with each breath, a new opportunity opens doors to receive the gift of hope.

Excerpt from VA.gov:

Increasing Situational Awareness: The Grounding Technique

The grounding technique may be useful in addressing intrusive thoughts and flashbacks related to a prior traumatic event. The purpose of this technique is to help an agitated person to focus on the current situation with the police officer, rather than thinking about and responding to events in his or her own head.

While useful with Veterans experiencing PTSD symptoms, this technique can be used in many situations in which individuals would benefit from an increased attention to current circumstances. For example, you may use it to help an acutely suicidal person who is experiencing extreme hopelessness.

As with any technique, this one could also be counterproductive. At any sign that this grounding is further frustrating the person, stop and give something else a try.

Please take time to breathe and stay grounded in the moment. The rewards for level-headedness far outweigh losing self to making a hasty choice in a fit of rage. The benefits of grounding help relieve stress and find a new sense of hope by staying empowered and determined to succeed at all costs.

Overcome Impossibility. Be brave. Let rejection fuel resilience.