Veteran Bands Use Music to Support Healing

Two veteran-led music efforts are using performance to support healing and challenge stigma around mental health. The Resilient, a rock band formed by wounded combat veterans who met at Walter Reed, uses music to foster connection and aid emotional recovery; the group emerged after veterans joined Roger Waters at the Stand Up for Heroes benefit, which is marking its 20th year supporting veterans and military families. In New Orleans, Vet Jams pairs country music performances with candid conversations encouraging veterans to seek therapy, an approach its founders say can make it easier for people to discuss shared experiences and get support.