American Legion Ride for PTSD

11/21/2025

10/30/2025

The fire may be out, but the smoke still lingers in the mind. For many firefighters and first responders, the memories of what they’ve seen don’t fade with the flames. Triggers can come out of nowhere, a sound, a smell, a flash of heat and suddenly you’re back in it. But remember this: you’ve already survived the real fire. You have the strength to face the echoes of it, too. Breathe. Ground yourself. Reach out to those who’ve walked the same path. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting it means reclaiming your peace, one step at a time.

https://www.birdwellfoundation.org/donate.html

10/28/2025

Every day you face what most cannot, carrying invisible wounds while continuing to stand guard for others. That kind of strength cannot be measured in medals or ranks it lives in resilience, courage, and heart. Healing from trauma takes time, but you do not walk that road alone. Your service, both past and present, proves that light still cuts through even the darkest battles. Remember that seeking help is not weakness; it is another act of bravery. You have already shown the power to overcome, and the world stands taller because of you. Thank you for protecting our country and for fighting every day to reclaim your peace.

10/27/2025

Being a first responder means facing chaos even when you’re already carrying heavy memories. When PTSD triggers hit while you’re on duty, it’s vital to have fast, simple grounding tools. Focus on your breathing, slow inhale through your nose, long exhale through your mouth. Name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear. It brings your mind back to the present. Step away for a minute if you can, even to grab water or air. Lean on your partner, don’t isolate. After the shift, decompress intentionally: talk to someone who “gets it,” journal, or exercise. Remember, strength isn’t ignoring the trigger, it’s managing it and coming back ready to serve again.
https://www.birdwellfoundation.org/donate.html

10/26/2025

If you feel a PTSD trigger coming on:

Grounding and mindfulness:
The 5-4-3-2-1 method: Name five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste.

Focus on your breath: Try to breathe in slowly and deeply, perhaps inhaling for four counts, holding for two, and exhaling for six to eight counts.

Engage your senses: Wash your face with cool water, listen to loud music, or make a fragrant soup.

Distraction and physical activity:
Move your body: Exercise or take a walk to release tension and stress.

Find a healthy distraction: Call a friend, watch a comfort show, do a craft, or cook your favorite food.

Change your environment: Move to a different room or go outside to help shift your mindset.

Self-comfort and support:
Comfort yourself: Curl up with a blanket, pet a dog, or listen to soothing music.

Use self-talk: Repeat positive affirmations or remind yourself that the traumatic event is over and you are safe now. You can write these phrases down when you're feeling calm to refer to later.

Talk to a trusted person: Reaching out to a friend, family member, or support group can help you feel less alone and more understood

10/24/2025

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) triggers are situations, events, or objects that can bring back distressing memories, flashbacks, and other symptoms. Here are some effective strategies for coping with PTSD triggers.

Identify and Avoid Triggers:
Recognize your triggers: Pay attention to your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations when you experience a trigger.

Avoid or limit exposure: If possible, try to avoid or minimize exposure to triggers that consistently worsen your symptoms.

Develop coping mechanisms: Have a plan in place for how you will respond when you encounter a trigger.

10/15/2025

When discussing PTSD, focus on validation and support by saying things like, "I believe you," "It's understandable that you feel this way," or "I'm here for you". Avoid dismissive phrases like "Just get over it" and instead, listen actively, ask open-ended questions, and ask how you can best help. Educating yourself about the condition can also help you understand triggers and support their recovery.

What to say to someone with PTSD
Validate their experience:
"I believe you."
"It's understandable that you feel this way."
"You're not alone."
Offer support:
"I'm here for you."
"How can I support you?"
"Take all the time you need."
"I'm committed to you and will always be here."
Focus on the present:
"You're here now, you don't have to worry anymore."
What to avoid saying
Dismissive statements:
"Just get over it."
"It's in the past."
"It could have been worse."

Blaming or pressuring:
Questions that imply they should have acted differently or are not trying hard enough.
Minimizing their feelings or experiences.
Communication strategies
Listen without interruption: Be a good listener and allow them to speak at their own pace.

Ask open-ended questions: Encourage them to talk more by asking questions that require more than a "yes" or "no" answer.
Ask how to help: Instead of assuming, ask directly what you can do to help them.

Be prepared for repetition: Be patient if they repeat their stories.
Remain calm: If you are in a crisis, try to remain as calm as possible.
Educate yourself: Learning about PTSD, including its symptoms and common triggers, can help you understand what they are going through.

10/11/2025

It doesn’t matter what side of the aisle you sit on our troops shouldn’t be the ones who pay the most over this political discourse.