In Lake Nona, Florida, a special initiative is helping veterans find healing through creativity and connection. The Orlando VA has launched a program called REVEAL, which stands for Reimagining Veterans’ Emotions, Actions, and Life Skills. This program invites veterans to come together and play Dungeons & Dragons, a well-loved tabletop role-playing game.
Meeting twice a month, the participants dive into a world of imagination, where collaboration and creativity flourish. Victor Mitchell, a personal support assistant, explains that gaming fosters a sense of community, allowing veterans to bond over experiences beyond their military background.
“It’s about creating connections,” he said. “When veterans play together, they build relationships in a relaxed environment.”
John Bell, a newcomer to the program, appreciates the chance to socialize and step out of his home. Meanwhile, Michael Dodge, who has been playing D&D for years, finds it mentally stimulating. “It keeps the brain moving,” he notes. Studies support this, showing that engaging in games can enhance cognitive abilities as we age.
More than 150,000 veterans seek services at the Orlando VA each year, with around 27,000 accessing mental health care monthly. Jeremy Goldberg, a mental health social work section manager, emphasizes the importance of community in recovery. “Veterans thrive when they feel supported. This group helps recreate that unit bond,” he said. Creating a stable community can be crucial, especially when transitioning back to civilian life.
Participants like Peter Joyce have noted the positive impact of the D&D sessions. “It helps release stress,” he says, underscoring the therapy found in shared experiences. Jimmy Deloney, a lead peer support specialist, shares his personal transformation. “I’ve become more sociable,” he reflects, attributing his newfound confidence to the camaraderie he finds in the group.
The REVEAL program embodies a simple yet powerful idea: play can heal. By providing a supportive space for storytelling and connection, it’s giving veterans a chance to cope with their mental health challenges in a unique and enjoyable way.
For those interested in joining, the group meets on the second and fourth Friday of each month at the Orlando VA. Peers can contact Victor Mitchell at 407-631-2340 for more information.
This initiative highlights how tapping into creativity can be an effective way to support mental wellness. As the world continues to change, programs like REVEAL remind us of the power of community and imagination in healing.
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