When a veteran finally opens up, don’t interrupt. Don’t immediately offer advice. Don’t listen just to prepare your response.
U.S. Navy veteran and author D. Paul Fleming explains one of the simplest—and most important—ways families, friends, leaders, and fellow veterans can support someone carrying trauma:
Just listen.
As D. Paul explains on The MisFitNation, a veteran may have carried that story for years. Interrupting, judging, or trying to fix the situation can shut the conversation down before they are able to say what they need to say. His message is clear: when a veteran chooses to talk, give them the space to be heard.
Stop listening to answer. Start listening to hear.
This powerful conversation touches on veteran mental health, PTSD, trauma, military transition, suicide awareness, and why creating a safe space for veterans to tell their stories matters.
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