Veterans
1.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the more common conditions that affects veterans. Among the nearly 21 million military veterans living in the United States, 64.0% of women and 76.1% of men are overweight or obese, higher rates than in the civilian population (56.9% of women and 69.9% of men).
2.
According to the National Center for PTSD, the condition affects approximately 7-8% of all Americans, and some sources even estimate that the number of people living with PTSD is much higher, noting that 8-12% of all adults and 13-31% of military veterans may develop PTSD during their lifetime.
Studies show that people feel happier and are healthier after exercising.
These benefits become even more critical when we consider the age of someone who is experiencing and managing PTSD symptoms. In an article on the U.S. Department of Affairs’ website, Katherine Hall, Ph.D mentions why it’s important to specifically focus on the older generation of veterans for a number of reasons.
Brian McCarthy, Chairman & President of The Play For Life Foundation, is a combat disabled Veteran having served from Vietnam to Desert Storm as a surface warfare officer and logistician in the United States Navy – He retired with 30 years of service at the rank of Rear Admiral and personally decorated ten times.
Donate to support our Veterans & active military
At the Play For Life Foundation, our Club-N-Box can make a difference. A Club-N-Box contains nets, paddles, balls, and instructional material on how to play and setup a court. Getting veterans and active military involved and exercising consistently through pickleball will lead to significant health benefits for both their physical and mental wellbeing.