World Mental Health Day: The Flannel Project’s Mission to Support Survivors of Veteran Suicide.
Today, October 10th, is World Mental Health Day—a day dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for better mental health care around the world. This year’s theme, “Mental health is a universal human right,” resonates deeply with the mission of The Flannel Project, a charity that I hold close to my heart. Our work revolves around a simple yet crucial principle: providing support for those who have faced unimaginable loss and trauma, particularly within the veteran community.
The Flannel Project: A Legacy of Support and Compassion
The Flannel Project was born from a place of deep personal loss and a desire to make a difference. After the devastating loss of our friend Shannen, a veteran who took her own life, we realized the urgent need for mental health support for those left behind—survivors of veteran suicide. Named after Shannen’s beloved dog, Flannel, our project is a tribute to her memory and a testament to the strength of those who continue to live in the wake of such loss.
Our mission is to ensure that these survivors are not forgotten. We strive to create a network of support that provides practical resources, counseling, and a sense of community for those who need it most.
The SOS Flannel Card: A Lifeline for Survivors
One of the core components of The Flannel Project is the SOS Flannel Card—a digital card designed to support those who have lost a veteran to suicide. The card offers a holistic approach to postvention, which encompasses mental health services, practical assistance, and community support. Each SOS Flannel Card is customized to meet the unique needs of the survivor, whether it’s offering therapy sessions, vouchers for everyday essentials, or access to support groups.
The SOS Card is guided by three pillars: Support Strong, Heal Strong, and Empower Forward. We recognize that healing from trauma is not linear, and survivors need a range of services that respect their individual journeys. The SOS Flannel Card provides:
Access to Mental Health Resources: Survivors can receive professional counseling and trauma therapy sessions tailored to their needs.
Practical Assistance: Vouchers for chemists, supermarkets, meal services, and GP consultations help survivors navigate daily life while they make room to stabilize and make room for healthy grieving.
Community Connection: Our support groups foster a sense of belonging, allowing survivors to connect with others who understand their experiences.
By bringing all these services together into a cohesive package, the SOS Flannel Card simplifies the process of accessing help and ensures that no one has to face their grief alone.
Why This Work Matters on World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day reminds us of the profound impact that mental health challenges have on individuals, families, and communities. It also highlights the need for initiatives like The Flannel Project, which aim to fill the gaps left by traditional mental health services, particularly for marginalized groups such as veteran survivors of suicide.
The journey of healing from such trauma is often isolating and overwhelming. Through the SOS Flannel Card, we strive to make that journey a little less daunting, empowering survivors to honor their loved ones, turn grief into purpose, and ultimately, find a new beginning.
Today, as we observe World Mental Health Day, let us remember that mental health is indeed a universal human right. At The Flannel Project, we are committed to ensuring that veteran survivors of suicide have access to the support they need. Together, we can bridge the gaps, offer hope, and create a future where no one has to walk this journey alone.
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