TONIGHT "Memories: When the Past Lasts!" Join Steven & Warriors for Life (WFL)

Join our Volunteer, Air Force Veteran, Peer Support Specialist, and Writer/Author Steven Bates TONIGHT for "Mid-Week Musings!" edition of Warriors for Life (WFL) Online, sponsored and presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV).

We are asking everyone to share who we are and what support that Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) is providing via WFL. If you know someone who is a veteran, first responder or a family member/caregiver, please ask them to join us for at least one meeting so they can learn more about what we do and how they can share their wisdom with others who may be able to learn from them.

TONIGHT's Topic:  "Memories: When the Past Lasts!"

"Memories.  We all have them to some extent, some more than others.  Some are repressed, some are suppressed, some are amplified or others magnified.  To many, most memories are a good thing, but to some of us, there are memories we would love to forget.  Some of us would give anything to remember some things, while there are others who would give an arm and a leg to forget some things ever happened.  So how do we handle memories, good and bad?"

The influence of past memories on mental health

Past experiences, including memories, greatly affect mental health and well-being.

1. Trauma and its imprint

• Traumatic events, from childhood, relationships, or other life circumstances, can have a lasting impact.

• The brain's processing of trauma can lead to fragmented or heightened emotional states. This makes memories difficult to process and can cause them to resurface unexpectedly.

• Trauma can manifest as increased sensitivities, fear of vulnerability, difficulty trusting others, and unhealthy communication patterns in relationships.

• Symptoms like flashbacks and nightmares are hallmarks of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), where the past feels like it's happening again. 

How to Cope With a Bad Memory

On the other hand, intentionally recalling positive memories can boost mood, enhance resilience, and improve overall well-being. This practice can help counteract the effects of stress and negative thinking.  

10 Ways to Create Happy Memories Now

In essence, while the past can cast shadows, understanding its influence and actively engaging in healthy coping strategies and positive memory recall can pave the way toward a brighter future and improved mental health

Join the Warriors for Life Wednesday night Peer Support group Mid-Week Musings with Air Force veteran, author, and Peer Support Specialist Steven Bates as we discuss Memories, when the past lasts.

Warriors for Life (WFL) Online "Mid-Week Musings!" edition presented by Victory for Veterans, Inc. (VFV) — Wednesday (TONIGHT), July 16, 2025, @ 4:30 PM PT, 5:30 PM MT, 6:30 PM CT, & 7:30 PM ET

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87440882846 

Thank you,

Steven Bates

Air Force Veteran, Writer/Author, Peer Support Specialist, &

Volunteer Facilitator, Victory for Veterans, Inc.

“Honor & Respect Always — Warriors for Life!”