Social Connection Helps Eliminate Isolation, Makes Veteran Lives Better

It can be as simple as a dinner or as complex as multiple days of bonding, but social connection is at the heart of everything Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) does. And with good reason.

In 2023, the U.S. surgeon general issued a report about the nation’s epidemic of loneliness and isolation, noting that about 1 in 2 adults in the U.S. experience loneliness. The report calls loneliness a significant public health concern and more widespread than other major health issues nationwide.

While spotlighting the issue, Dr. Vivek Murthy compared the health dangers of isolation to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. The report noted that loneliness increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as dementia, anxiety, depression, and even premature death.

Loneliness Among Veterans

A recent Gallup poll found that 20% of people in the U.S. struggle with loneliness daily, and a majority equate that to poor life satisfaction.  

Veterans are at an increased risk of loneliness. WWP’s Warrior Survey* found that many warriors are lonely (68%), lack companionship (71%), and feel left out (74%). More than a third noted that their physical health or emotional problems interfered with their social activities either “most of the time” or “all of the time.”

Warriors who had symptoms of one or more mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder, were at greater risk for loneliness.

Building Connections in the Veteran Community 

In a recent interview, the surgeon general urged embracing opportunities for deeper social connections to combat loneliness, especially those leading to improved health and increased resilience.

Organizations like WWP recognize that social connections are critical in reducing loneliness, supporting positive behavior change, and improving veterans’ well-being and overall quality of life.

“Wounded Warrior Project wants to get veterans, families, and caregivers out of isolation and connected to each other. That’s why we host so many events,” said Wil Williamson, vice president of Connection at WWP. “Gatherings increase camaraderie and happiness and help veterans realize they are not alone in their challenges.”

In 2024, WWP hosted more than 6,400 connection events to get warriors, their families, and caregivers out of the house and connected in their communities. In-person events included sporting events, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, hiking, art activities, bingo, mini golf and laser tag, and group dinners. Virtual events, which began during the pandemic in 2020, are also offered for those who may not be comfortable venturing out yet. WWP has something for everyone, with activities including mindfulness and breathing seminars, yoga and meditation classes, group cross-stitch, and nutrition workshops.

Increasing Connection Through Peer Support

Though every veteran may have different experiences, most can relate to one another. This is one of the reasons WWP trains warriors to become peer leaders and host support groups and connection events in their community.

In 2024, WWP hosted more than 1,200 peer support group meetings and more than 600 warrior-led events. These gatherings increase the opportunity for connection and empower warriors to live the logo by giving back.

Limited research exists on peer support, but some studies show that it is an effective way to reduce loneliness, improve mental health among veterans, and find a renewed sense of belonging, identity, and routine.

“Better Together”

Army veteran Jacob Norotsky began attending WWP events in 2017 and soon realized the importance of connection.

“I felt alone and was missing a purpose, but Wounded Warrior Project was always there, checking on me, encouraging me,” said Jake.

“One day, I was thinking about my journey and Wounded Warrior Project's impact on my life and remembered something my wife said: ‘We’re better together.’ It finally clicked – the importance of reconnecting with my brothers and sisters and doing life together. Now that’s my focus; helping other veterans not feel alone anymore and find their new purpose.”

Jake now serves as a WWP Warriors Speak team member, sharing his message about the power of connection.

How Can You Connect?

Learn more about WWP’s connection program and how it can help veterans, family members, and caregivers build a strong support network. Register today to join a community that understands your journey and is ready to walk alongside you.

*Warrior Survey, Wave 3 (conducted May 25-Aug.1, 2023)

Contact: Cynthia Weiss – Public Relations, cweiss@woundedwarriorproject.org, 904. 738.2589

About Wounded Warrior Project
Since 2003, Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) has been meeting the growing needs of warriors, their families, and caregivers, helping them achieve their highest ambitions. Learn more about the Wounded Warrior Project.