In 2020, Ashley Craig, encouraged by her veteran husband to seek support, found solace in the Veteran Spouse Network—a program under the Institute for Military & Veteran Family Wellness at the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. The initiative, designed to provide a support system for military spouses, alleviated Craig’s sense of isolation.
“Military service impacts not just the veterans but their entire families,” Craig noted. “Support is crucial because a problem in one part of a relationship can affect the whole structure. If one wall is cracking, you reinforce the others.”
Today, Craig serves as the marketing development and training manager for the Veteran Spouse Network (VSN), which fosters a community of peer support for military and veteran spouses. On August 2, the VSN hosted an all-day Mental Health First Aid event aimed at military personnel, veterans, and their families. The event focused on identifying signs and symptoms of mental health challenges, practicing non-judgmental listening, providing reassurance, and guiding individuals to professional support and services.
“We emphasize non-judgmental listening,” Craig said. “I often use the analogy of being a tree—just here to listen and support. This approach helps us understand and address the barriers participants face.”
The training also covered the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on service members and veterans. “Triggers for PTSD can be unpredictable,” Craig explained. “It could be a sound, a smell, or even being in a crowded space. For example, my husband finds it difficult to go to the movies because of the unpredictable darkness.”
Amanda Barkster, an Army Reserve soldier stationed in San Antonio, participated in the training after experiencing emotional challenges during her military service. She sought to protect others who might face similar issues and began attending self-care events, including the VSN’s workshop.
“I was nervous at first,” Barkster admitted. “But the attendees were welcoming and genuine. Their passion for their work is evident and heartfelt.”
Jamela Davis, VSN outreach manager, also started as a participant. Her husband’s 28-year service in the United States Army required her family to adapt to life after his retirement.
“Post-deployment, service members must readjust to family life and routines,” Davis said. “It requires patience, love, and support.”
Davis praised the VSN for providing tools for communication, managing triggers, and self-care, and for connecting her with a supportive community. “The VSN feels like an extended family,” she said. “Even if you’ve never met someone before, the shared experience creates a strong bond. It’s comforting to know you’re not alone, even in silence.”
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