Real Warriors campaign makes a stop at Quantico

It takes strength to ask for help, whether you’re a member of the armed services or a professional athlete.

That was the message Jan. 22 at the Clubs of Quantico as the National Football League Players Association partnered with the Real Warriors Campaign to discuss common reintegration challenges facing service members as well as the tools and resources available to address them.

“It’s really not simple, it’s hard to ask for help,” said Quantico Commander Col. Dan Choike, who added that service members are keeping the military strong when they seek assistance during difficult times.

The campaign, sponsored by the Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury, began in 2009. It encourages help-seeking behavior among service members and veterans coping with invisible psychological wounds. The campaign’s web site at www.realwarriors.net includes 90 articles and video interviews with service members who have reached out for care.

“Our goal is to encourage more service members to reach out and seek help when they’re experiencing stress in their lives,” explained Dr. Monique Moore, Wellbeing Program Manager, Resilience and Prevention Directorate, Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury.

 “The more people that come forward and admit they’ve reached out for help and struggled with things, the more it encourages others to do the same,” she added.

During the event, NFL players like Ken Harvey, a former linebacker for the Washington Redskins, joined Marines and their families to watch the New England Patriots take on the Baltimore Ravens and the New York Giants challenge the San Francisco Forty-Niners.

“As a man and as a football player, we have a pride in us that makes us keep on fighting and pushing to the end, Harvey told the crowd.

Former Redskins linebacker Eddie Mason said NFL players and Marines both show passion in their work.

“But, we try not to show emotion or pain and lock them up, but they never go away,” he said.

Mason said that it doesn’t make a Marine less of Marine to ask for help. Service members who need help can call 866-966-1020.