MOULTRIE, Ga. — The statistics are startling. A 2015 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs study shows 20 to 30 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans experience Post Traumatic Stress. A 2014 Institute of Medicine report found only about half of those with PTSD get treatment and a 2011 study by the Pew Research Center found 44 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan vets have difficulty re-adjusting to civilian life.

Kindle Lodge in rural south Georgia serves as a sanctuary for all military, both past and present, and their families, offering a combination of evidence-based and faith-based approaches to post-traumatic stress and other life challenges, according to a press release from NAMI Moultrie. The purpose is not just to alleviate symptoms, but to kindle personal growth, resolution, and hope. A variety of ways – transformative workshops, equine-assisted, recreational, and other therapies, meditation, prayer, physical activities, and social support — are meant to change the paradigm of PTSD and other challenges. Their programs offer sustainable ways for veterans to turn struggles into strengths and to help them find peace of mind, body, and soul, the press release said.

NAMI Moultrie invites the public to attend NAMI Night on Tuesday, Aug. 7, to hear Kindle Lodge President and Chairman of the Board Reg McCutcheon as he details the services provided at Kindle Lodge. McCutcheon, who retired from the Air Force as a lieutenant colonel, is a marriage and family therapist, certified in eye movement desensitization reprocessing, and a certified clinical trauma professional. He is a nationally recognized military trauma expert and keynote speaker. He is a contributing writer and guest speaker on the Military Family Learning Network, Head Space and Timing program.

NAMI Night meetings are held in First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at the intersection of Fifth Avenue Southeast and Second Street. There is no cost to attend NAMI events. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information, contact Lynn Wilson at lynnbw45@gmail.com.