Tag Men

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Soldiers: Understanding, Effects, and Treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that has long affected soldiers and military personnel, often impacting their lives in profound ways. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, up to 20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan experience PTSD, underscoring the prevalence of this condition among soldiers who endure the harsh realities of combat and warfare. This article explores the causes, symptoms, and effects of PTSD in soldiers, examines various treatment options, and discusses emerging approaches to care.

Causes of PTSD in Soldiers

PTSD is generally triggered by exposure to traumatic events. For soldiers, combat is a primary source of trauma, involving life-threatening situations, witnessing injury or death, and enduring extreme physical and emotional stress. Studies have found that prolonged and repeated exposure to combat conditions increases the risk of PTSD, particularly if soldiers are subjected to high levels of intensity and frequency of traumatic events (American Psychological Association, 2020). Further risk factors include military rank, training, and support systems, with enlisted personnel and those lacking robust support networks being more vulnerable (Gradus, 2023).

The severity of PTSD symptoms often varies based on the intensity and nature of the traumatic events experienced. For instance, individuals who encounter close combat situations or who witness the death of comrades are more likely to develop severe PTSD symptoms (Hoge et al., 2004).

Symptoms of PTSD in Soldiers

PTSD symptoms are generally grouped into four categories:

  1. Intrusive Thoughts: Soldiers with PTSD often experience unwanted, distressing memories or flashbacks of traumatic events, causing them to relive the traumatic moment repeatedly.
  2. Avoidance: Avoiding situations, people, or places that remind the individual of the trauma is a common coping mechanism. Soldiers might withdraw from social settings or avoid seeking help.
  3. Negative Changes in Thought and Mood: Symptoms may include persistent negative emotions, distorted beliefs about oneself or others, and a feeling of detachment from family and friends.
  4. Hyperarousal and Reactivity: PTSD often causes soldiers to experience heightened anxiety, irritability, or hypervigilance. They may have difficulty sleeping and feel constantly on edge (National Institute of Mental Health, 2021).

In military contexts, PTSD can lead to significant challenges in social and family relationships, making reintegration into civilian life difficult. Soldiers may experience guilt over actions taken or not taken in combat, known as moral injury, which exacerbates the symptoms of PTSD (Litz et al., 2009).

Effects of PTSD on Soldiers’ Lives

PTSD can have a severe impact on veterans’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being, with potential long-term consequences that affect not only the individual but also their families and communities. Some of the major effects include:

  • Depression and Anxiety: Soldiers with PTSD often experience comorbid depression and anxiety, which can further complicate their recovery. The stress and trauma they face in combat environments have lasting effects that increase susceptibility to these conditions.
  • Substance Abuse: To cope with symptoms, many veterans turn to alcohol or drugs, which often results in dependency issues. Research has shown that PTSD and substance use disorders are closely linked in military populations, with soldiers attempting to self-medicate to alleviate PTSD symptoms (Seal et al., 2011).
  • Suicidal Ideation and Attempts: PTSD is a significant risk factor for suicide among veterans, with some studies indicating that the risk of suicide is higher among those with PTSD than the general population (Kang et al., 2015).
  • Difficulties in Employment and Social Reintegration: Veterans with PTSD may struggle to find and maintain stable employment due to symptoms such as hyperarousal, anxiety, and avoidance, impacting their social and economic well-being. Reintegration challenges, compounded by stigmatization of mental health issues, further isolate veterans from support systems that could aid in their recovery.

Treatment Options for PTSD in Soldiers

A wide range of treatment options is available for soldiers with PTSD. The goal of these treatments is not only to alleviate symptoms but to enable veterans to lead fulfilling lives after service. Treatments can be broadly categorized into:

  1. Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), are among the most effective treatments for PTSD. CBT helps patients process and alter their trauma-related thoughts and behaviors, while EMDR helps in processing traumatic memories by stimulating the brain’s natural healing process (Watkins et al., 2018).
  2. Pharmacotherapy: Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for PTSD, as they help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression. Medication, however, is often used alongside psychotherapy rather than as a standalone treatment (VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline, 2017).
  3. Group Therapy and Support Groups: These provide veterans with a community that understands their experiences, fostering a support system that can help them cope with the effects of trauma. Research indicates that group therapy is particularly beneficial for soldiers, as it promotes shared understanding and mutual support (Browne et al., 2016).
  4. Emerging Treatments: New therapies, such as virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy, have shown promising results. VRET immerses patients in a controlled, simulated environment to help them confront and process traumatic experiences. MDMA-assisted therapy, under clinical investigation, has demonstrated significant reductions in PTSD symptoms in early trials (Mithoefer et al., 2018).

Challenges in Addressing PTSD in Military Contexts

Despite available treatments, several challenges remain in addressing PTSD among soldiers. A significant barrier is stigma—many military personnel fear seeking help for PTSD due to concerns about appearing weak or unfit for duty. Additionally, the military structure can sometimes be resistant to mental health care initiatives, emphasizing resilience and self-reliance over seeking assistance. Efforts are ongoing to destigmatize PTSD and encourage open discussions about mental health in military settings (Hoge et al., 2004).

Accessibility of mental health services is another issue. Many veterans live in rural areas with limited access to specialized PTSD treatments. Telemedicine has been identified as a potential solution, offering remote therapy sessions that improve access for veterans in underserved areas (Rosen et al., 2017).

Conclusion

PTSD remains a significant mental health concern for soldiers, with far-reaching impacts on individuals, families, and communities. The military context poses unique challenges for both the onset and treatment of PTSD, underscoring the need for continued research, awareness, and innovation in treatment options. By addressing stigma and improving access to mental health care, society can better support veterans in managing PTSD and lead them toward healthier, more fulfilling lives post-service.

This article was written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years of experience in the Social Work field. He currently serves as the Executive Director and Outpatient provider for Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health based out of London Kentucky. He may be reached at (606) 657-0532 extension 101 or by email at [email protected]

References

  • American Psychological Association. (2020). PTSD and the Military. Retrieved from APA.org.
  • Gradus, J. (2023). PTSD in Military Veterans. VA National Center for PTSD. Retrieved from PTSD.va.gov.
  • Hoge, C. W., et al. (2004). Combat Duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Mental Health Problems, and Barriers to Care. The New England Journal of Medicine, 351(1), 13-22.
  • Kang, H. K., et al. (2015). Association of PTSD with increased suicide risk among veterans. Journal of Military Medicine, 180(9), 982-989.
  • Litz, B. T., et al. (2009). Moral injury and moral repair in war veterans: A preliminary model and intervention strategy. Clinical Psychology Review, 29(8), 695-706.
  • Mithoefer, M. C., et al. (2018). MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD: A breakthrough therapy. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 32(1), 4-12.
  • National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Retrieved from NIMH.nih.gov.
  • Rosen, C. S., et al. (2017). Telemedicine for PTSD: A review of clinical evidence and practice. Telemedicine and e-Health, 23(3), 192-202.
  • Seal, K. H., et al. (2011). Substance use disorders in Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 5(1), 5-10.
  • VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline. (2017). Management of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Acute Stress Reaction. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Did you Lose Yourself in your Marriage?

Marriage is often seen as a union of two individuals who merge their lives, goals, and values. While this partnership requires compromise, trust, and mutual support, there is a risk of losing one’s personal identity in the process. Losing oneself in a marriage refers to the tendency to prioritize the relationship at the expense of individual identity, interests, and personal development. While the idea of “becoming one” is often romanticized, losing oneself in a marriage can have significant negative consequences for both personal well-being and the relationship itself.

The Concept of Losing Yourself in Marriage

To lose oneself in a marriage means that an individual’s personal identity becomes submerged in the identity of the couple. This can manifest in giving up personal hobbies, values, friendships, or ambitions for the sake of maintaining the relationship. While compromise is an essential part of any marriage, consistently abandoning one’s personal interests and values can lead to feelings of disconnection, resentment, and dissatisfaction over time (Aron & Aron, 2001).

Researchers have explored the psychological phenomenon of “relationship enmeshment,” which occurs when boundaries between partners become blurred, and one partner’s identity is overtaken by the couple’s shared identity (Cramer, 2003). While it’s normal for couples to grow together and make sacrifices for one another, maintaining individual autonomy is equally important for long-term happiness and mental health.

Negative Consequences of Losing Yourself in Marriage

Losing oneself in a marriage can result in several adverse effects, both on an individual level and within the relationship itself.

  1. Loss of Personal Fulfillment: When a person consistently prioritizes their spouse’s needs and interests over their own, they may begin to lose touch with the things that once brought them personal joy and satisfaction (Miller, 2019). Over time, this can lead to feelings of emptiness, as the individual may feel they have lost their sense of purpose outside the marriage.
  2. Emotional Burnout and Resentment: Constantly putting the relationship above one’s own needs can lead to emotional exhaustion. This can result in feelings of resentment towards the spouse, as the individual may feel that they have sacrificed too much for the relationship (Waller & McLanahan, 2005). This, in turn, can create tension within the marriage, as unresolved feelings of resentment and burnout may lead to conflict.
  3. Imbalanced Power Dynamics: In cases where one partner continually prioritizes the other, an imbalanced power dynamic can emerge. The partner who has lost themselves may feel powerless or dependent on their spouse, while the other partner may unknowingly become the dominant figure in the relationship (Anderson & Chen, 2002). This imbalance can create long-term strain on the relationship, as both partners may struggle to navigate the power dynamic.
  4. Increased Risk of Codependency: Losing oneself in a marriage can also contribute to codependency, a situation where one partner becomes overly reliant on the other for emotional support and self-worth. Codependency can limit personal growth, independence, and self-sufficiency, making the individual feel trapped within the relationship (Hendrick & Hendrick, 2006). This can further erode the quality of the marriage, as both partners may struggle with the limitations that codependency imposes.

Why It’s Important to Maintain Individuality in Marriage

Maintaining individuality within a marriage is not only beneficial for personal well-being but also for the health of the relationship. When both partners have their own identities, interests, and friendships, they are more likely to experience personal fulfillment, which can positively impact the marriage. Here are a few reasons why individuality is crucial:

  1. Promotes Personal Growth: Maintaining one’s own hobbies, ambitions, and social connections outside of the marriage allows for continued personal growth. When individuals have space to grow independently, they bring new perspectives and experiences back to the relationship, enriching the partnership as a whole (Aron & Aron, 2001).
  2. Encourages Healthy Boundaries: Healthy marriages thrive on mutual respect and understanding. Setting and maintaining personal boundaries can help ensure that both partners feel valued and respected in the relationship. This allows for a balance of independence and togetherness, preventing the suffocation that often comes with losing oneself in the marriage (Cramer, 2003).
  3. Fosters Emotional Stability: When individuals maintain a sense of self outside of the relationship, they are less likely to become emotionally dependent on their spouse. This fosters emotional stability, as each partner feels confident and secure in their own identity (Sprecher & Felmlee, 1992). Emotional stability contributes to a healthier and more balanced relationship dynamic, where both partners support each other’s individual growth.

How to Prevent Losing Yourself in Marriage

To avoid losing oneself in marriage, it is essential to establish and maintain boundaries, communicate openly with your partner, and prioritize self-care. Here are some practical steps to ensure a healthy balance between individuality and partnership:

  1. Prioritize Personal Hobbies and Interests: It is important to continue pursuing personal hobbies and interests, even after getting married. Engaging in activities that bring personal fulfillment allows individuals to maintain a sense of self (Waller & McLanahan, 2005). Additionally, this can help prevent feelings of boredom or stagnation within the marriage.
  2. Foster Open Communication: Having honest conversations with your partner about personal needs, boundaries, and concerns is essential. Open communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that both partners feel heard and respected (Hendrick & Hendrick, 2006).
  3. Maintain Relationships Outside of the Marriage: Cultivating friendships and maintaining relationships with family members outside the marriage is vital. These connections provide emotional support and offer different perspectives, helping to prevent isolation within the marriage (Miller, 2019).
  4. Reflect on Personal Goals: Take time to regularly reflect on personal goals, values, and aspirations. This helps ensure that personal ambitions are not lost in the pursuit of relationship harmony (Aron & Aron, 2001).

Conclusion

While marriage is a deeply rewarding partnership, it is important to avoid losing oneself in the relationship. Maintaining individuality, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering open communication can help ensure that both partners thrive both individually and as a couple. By balancing personal growth with marital commitment, individuals can experience greater fulfillment, emotional stability, and long-term relationship satisfaction.

This article has been written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years in the social work field. He currently serves as the executive director and provider within Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health based out of London Kentucky. He may be reached at 6066570532 or by email at [email protected].

References

Anderson, S. M., & Chen, S. (2002). The relational self: An interpersonal social-cognitive theory. Psychological Review, 109(4), 619–645. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.109.4.619

Aron, A., & Aron, E. N. (2001). Self-expansion model of motivation and cognition in close relationships and beyond. Handbook of Motivation and Cognition Within Close Relationships, 63–84.

Cramer, D. (2003). Perceived respect for privacy, need for independence, and personal well-being in close relationships. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 20(2), 253–271. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265407503020002005

Hendrick, S. S., & Hendrick, C. (2006). Close relationships: A sourcebook. Sage Publications.

Miller, K. (2019). Boundaries in relationships: The key to maintaining intimacy and trust. Healthy Connections Press.

Sprecher, S., & Felmlee, D. (1992). The influence of self-disclosure on liking: Separate meta-analyses for men and women. Psychological Bulletin, 112(3), 487-492.

Waller, M. R., & McLanahan, S. (2005). “His” and “Her” marriage expectations: Determinants and consequences. Journal of Marriage and Family, 67(1), 53-67.

Why Your Marriage Should Be a Priority Over Your Children

In the modern world, many parents feel a constant pressure to focus all their time and energy on their children. While raising healthy, well-adjusted children is undoubtedly important, prioritizing your marriage is equally crucial. A strong marital relationship creates a stable foundation for your family, benefits your children in the long run, and contributes to personal fulfillment. This article explores why it’s essential to put your marriage first, supported by research and expert insights.

1. A Strong Marriage Provides a Stable Foundation for the Family

A healthy and stable marriage is the cornerstone of a thriving family. When parents have a strong, supportive relationship, they create an environment of emotional security for their children. Children benefit from witnessing a loving, respectful partnership because it models healthy relationship dynamics that they will carry into their own lives.

Research published in The Journal of Marriage and Family found that children whose parents maintain a strong relationship experience fewer behavioral and emotional problems (Amato, 2005). A stable marital bond creates a sense of safety and security, enabling children to feel more grounded. In contrast, when a marriage is neglected or becomes strained, children are more likely to experience anxiety, insecurity, and emotional instability.

By prioritizing your marriage, you’re investing in the well-being of the entire family unit.

2. Children Benefit from Witnessing Healthy Relationships

Children learn how to navigate relationships by observing their parents. By demonstrating love, respect, and teamwork in your marriage, you provide your children with a positive model for future relationships. This sets them up to build healthy partnerships later in life.

Dr. John Gottman, a renowned relationship researcher, emphasizes that children who observe their parents resolving conflicts with respect and cooperation tend to develop better problem-solving skills in their own relationships (Gottman & Silver, 1999). When your children see that you prioritize time together, communicate openly, and demonstrate affection, they learn valuable lessons about what it means to have a supportive, loving relationship.

Moreover, prioritizing your marriage helps create a positive family culture, where your children feel comfortable and learn important emotional skills like empathy, compromise, and communication.

3. Maintaining a Happy Marriage Helps Prevent Parental Burnout

Parenting is demanding, and when the focus is entirely on children, parents can experience burnout. This can lead to stress, exhaustion, and even resentment, which ultimately affects both the marriage and the parent-child relationship. By making your marriage a priority, you ensure that you and your partner maintain a strong emotional connection, which helps buffer the stress of parenting.

A study published in Family Relations found that when parents prioritize their relationship, they report greater personal well-being, less stress, and more satisfaction in both their marriage and their role as parents (Kluwer, 2010). This improved well-being translates into more energy and patience for parenting, allowing you to be more present and engaged with your children.

Taking time to nurture your marriage—whether through regular date nights, shared hobbies, or simply having uninterrupted conversations—helps you recharge emotionally and prevents burnout, making you a better partner and parent.

4. Prioritizing Your Marriage Promotes Long-Term Family Stability

Children grow up and eventually leave the home, but your marriage is meant to last a lifetime. Prioritizing your marriage not only enhances your connection in the present but also ensures that you have a strong partnership when the children are grown and out of the house.

Dr. Gary Chapman, author of The Five Love Languages, argues that parents who maintain a strong marital bond throughout the child-rearing years are more likely to experience long-term satisfaction in their marriage once their children become independent (Chapman, 1995). When couples neglect their marriage in favor of focusing exclusively on their children, they often find themselves disconnected once the children leave, leading to what’s commonly known as “empty nest syndrome.”

By keeping your marriage strong, you’re building a relationship that can thrive beyond the parenting years, allowing you and your partner to enjoy life together for many years to come.

5. A Strong Marriage Teaches Children That Relationships Take Work

When children see that you prioritize your marriage, they learn that relationships require effort, commitment, and time. They come to understand that maintaining a healthy marriage involves not only love and affection but also patience, communication, and mutual support. This is an important lesson for children as they grow and develop their own understanding of relationships.

A study in The Journal of Family Psychology found that children who grow up in homes where parents invest time in their marriage are more likely to have successful relationships as adults (Cui & Fincham, 2010). These children are better equipped to handle conflicts, express their emotions, and communicate effectively with their future partners.

By making your marriage a priority, you’re giving your children a powerful example of how to cultivate a loving, respectful relationship, which they can carry with them into adulthood.

Conclusion

While it may seem counterintuitive to put your marriage before your children, doing so creates a strong, stable foundation for your family. A happy, healthy marriage benefits your children by providing them with emotional security, modeling positive relationship dynamics, and teaching them important life skills. Moreover, by prioritizing your relationship, you prevent parental burnout, enhance long-term family stability, and ensure that your partnership will thrive even after the children leave the nest.

Balancing the demands of marriage and parenting can be challenging, but making your relationship a priority benefits everyone in the family, including your children. Ultimately, the best gift you can give your children is the example of a loving, committed partnership.

This article was written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. John has over 25 years experience in the social work. John currently serves as the executive Director and provider within Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health based out of London Kentucky. He may be reached at 606-657-0532 extension 101 or by email [email protected]

References

• Amato, P. R. (2005). The Impact of Family Formation Change on the Cognitive, Social, and Emotional Well-Being of the Next Generation. The Journal of Marriage and Family, 67(4), 911-926.

• Chapman, G. (1995). The Five Love Languages: How to Express Heartfelt Commitment to Your Mate. Northfield Publishing.

• Cui, M., & Fincham, F. D. (2010). The Differential Effects of Parental Divorce and Marital Conflict on Young Adult Romantic Relationships. Journal of Family Psychology, 24(4), 456-465.

• Gottman, J. M., & Silver, N. (1999). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. New York: Three Rivers Press.

• Kluwer, E. S. (2010). From Partnership to Parenthood: A Review of Marital Change Across the Transition to Parenthood. Family Relations, 59(5), 639-652.

Navigating the Transition: Creating a Routine

Part 3 of 7 A Key to Success for Retired Men

For men, retirement can represent a significant life shift, often bringing challenges that stem from the loss of a structured daily routine. After decades of adhering to a work schedule, many retirees find themselves grappling with feelings of aimlessness or a lack of direction. Developing a new routine, one that balances relaxation with purpose, is crucial for both mental and physical health. Establishing this new structure is a critical tool for navigating the post-career chapter of life.

The Psychological Impact of Retirement on Men

Men tend to derive a large part of their identity from their careers. A sudden cessation of professional responsibilities can result in feelings of loss, anxiety, or depression. A study conducted by the American Psychological Association revealed that retirees are 40% more likely to experience clinical depression than those still in the workforce, and men, in particular, may struggle with the emotional ramifications of retirement .

The lack of routine after retirement can exacerbate these feelings. Structure and predictability in daily life provide a sense of control and purpose. When this is removed, retirees may feel a void that leads to dissatisfaction. However, studies suggest that creating a new, personalized routine helps retirees maintain a sense of purpose and offers psychological stability .

Benefits of Creating a Routine in Retirement

  1. Maintaining Mental Health
    A structured day reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms in retirees. By setting goals and adhering to a regular schedule, men can experience a greater sense of achievement and self-worth. Research published in Psychology and Aging demonstrated that retirees who establish routines report better emotional health, including reduced rates of loneliness and anxiety .
  2. Physical Health
    A lack of physical activity is one of the leading risk factors for health deterioration post-retirement. Establishing a routine that includes exercise not only prevents physical decline but also enhances cognitive function. The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week for older adults . Retirees who incorporate daily walks, swimming, or gym sessions into their routine see marked improvements in both mental and physical health.
  3. Sense of Purpose
    Work provides a purpose beyond financial security. After retirement, this sense of purpose can be maintained by dedicating time to new activities. Whether it’s volunteer work, pursuing hobbies, or learning new skills, incorporating meaningful activities into a daily routine ensures that retirees continue to feel productive and valued.
  4. Improved Sleep Patterns
    Sleep disturbances are common among retirees due to the lack of structured activity during the day. By maintaining a routine, retirees can regulate their sleep-wake cycles. A consistent daily schedule promotes better sleep hygiene, resulting in improved energy levels and mental clarity during the day

Tips for Establishing a Retirement Routine

  1. Set Regular Wake-up and Bedtimes
    While the freedom to wake up without an alarm is a retirement perk, it’s still important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. This helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythms and improves overall energy and mood.
  2. Plan Physical Activity
    Include exercise in your routine, whether it’s morning walks, gym classes, or yoga. Physical activity promotes cardiovascular health, reduces stress, and helps retirees stay physically independent for longer.
  3. Dedicate Time to Hobbies or Learning
    Retirement is the ideal time to pursue long-held interests or learn something new. Whether it’s painting, gardening, writing, or taking courses in a subject of interest, setting aside time for personal development is key to feeling fulfilled.
  4. Volunteer or Mentor
    Many retirees find that volunteering provides a sense of purpose and connection to the community. Mentoring younger professionals in your previous field can also offer both structure and fulfillment, as well as maintain social engagement .
  5. Schedule Social Interactions
    Loneliness can be a significant issue for retirees, particularly for men who may have relied heavily on work relationships. Scheduling regular meet-ups with friends or family members, or joining clubs or groups, can help retirees stay socially active.

Balancing Flexibility with Routine

While it is essential to create a structured routine, it’s equally important to embrace the flexibility that retirement affords. Many men approach retirement as a “permanent vacation,” but over time, the absence of a routine can lead to boredom and dissatisfaction. Therefore, establishing a framework for the day helps maintain a sense of order, but it should remain flexible enough to accommodate spontaneity.

Having the ability to travel, pursue a new hobby, or simply relax without feeling guilty is one of the great benefits of retirement. Flexibility and routine can coexist harmoniously; for instance, retirees may want to maintain a morning exercise routine while leaving afternoons free for exploration or relaxation.

Conclusion

Creating a routine in retirement is vital for men to transition smoothly from their professional lives to a more leisurely phase. A balanced daily schedule promotes mental and physical health, fosters a sense of purpose, and provides the necessary structure to navigate this major life change. By prioritizing self-care, physical activity, and personal fulfillment, retirees can enjoy their golden years with clarity, happiness, and health.

This article has been written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years of experience in the social work field and is based in London Kentucky through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Mr. Collier may be reached by phone at (606) 657–0532 extension 101 or by email at [email protected].

References

  1. American Heart Association. (2021). Exercise Recommendations for Older Adults. Retrieved from American Heart Association.
  2. Hermanns, L. & Cole, G. (2020). “Retirement and the Importance of Routine: How Structure Improves Health.” Journal of Aging Research, 42(3), 315-328.
  3. Watson, D., & Proctor, S. (2019). “Routines and the Mental Health of Retirees: A Psychological Review.” Psychology and Aging, 34(1), 112-119.
  4. Weiss, D. (2018). “Post-Retirement Routines: How to Plan for the Next Chapter.” Aging and Society, 39(2), 237-249.
  5. Kimmel, M. (2019). Retirement and Masculinity: Understanding Emotional Transitions for Men. New York: Routledge Press.