The Invictus Games, a Paralympic athletic competition founded by Prince Harry that features and celebrates military veterans, is teaming up with the George W. Bush Institute to tackle a veterans issue that can’t be seen with the naked eye.
Combat veterans return home from active duty with more than just physical scars. Invisible wounds of war such as post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and sexual trauma can turn the transition from military to civilian life into an uphill battle–a battle that 22 veterans tragically lose every day. Untreated and stigmatized PTSD has also been linked to increased substance abuse and suicide among military veterans, especially those who cannot access mental health resources.
The partnership between the Invictus Games and the Bush Institute will fill this hole in veteran wellness and policy. Before the 2016 Invictus Games kicks off in Orlando, FL in May, the two organizations will host a symposium discussing how the nations participating in the competition can better help military veterans suffering from invisible wounds.
The 2016 Invictus Games will be co-chaired by former President George W. Bush. At a press conference on Dec. 3, Bush expressed his commitment to making this symposium a success.
I have dedicated the rest of my life to honoring the service and sacrifice of the men and women with whom I served as Commander-in-Chief. Those who wear their Nation’s uniform, some of whom have been overcome both visible and invisible injuries, deserve our support. I’m proud to serve as honorary chairman of the Invictus Games 2016, and to shine a spotlight on the unconquered spirit of these men and women, not just from the American team but from 15 Coalition nations.
The competition will bring together 500 military veterans and athletes from 15 nations. In addition to giving vets a chance to show off their skills on the playing field, the Invictus Games will also spread awareness about veteran wellness and resiliency.