The American Journal of Medicine reported that 23 percent of veterans experience post-traumatic stress disorder at some point in their life after service. There are counseling programs and peer support available to help veterans through this challenging condition, but one California man has found an alternative way to help veterans heal. Elias Gallegos owns Gracie Jiu Jitsu in Chula Vista, California. Gallegos uses his business to give veterans an alternative coping option when dealing with PTSD.
"Some people preach from the pulpit, some people heal from the doctor's room, and I heal from the mat," Gallegos told Fox 5 News.
Gallegos and other trainers at his gym offer Brazilian jiu jitsu classes to veterans. The sport gives returned servicemembers a safe place to release their aggression and connect with others going through similar difficulties. Many of the veterans who have gone through Gallegos' program, which is free to veterans, say that it helped them settle back into a normal routine and rediscover interests.
Experts agree that exercise is one of the most beneficial treatments for PTSD and depression, and the Gracie Jiu Jitsu program is in no shortage of physical demand. Most classes last a sweat-packed and heart-racing hour. Visit the gym's website for more information.