This painting was conceived during my inpatient stay at the West Haven Veterans Hospital, serving as an expressive outlet during a particularly challenging period of my PTSD therapy. The artwork depicts a solitary figure, silhouetted in black, sitting at the end of a tunnel. The tunnel is painted in dark shades of grey and black, symbolizing the engulfing nature of despair and isolation that often accompanies PTSD. The figure is seated with a knife in hand, with tiny drips of blood visible, representing the intense pain and self-destructive thoughts that can arise during moments of deep emotional distress.

To the right of the figure is a stark white poster with a semicolon, a symbol of continuation, and the message “#NOTWEAK” alongside the suicide prevention hotline number, “Dial 988.” This poster stands out against the grey background, signifying a beacon of hope and the importance of seeking help.

This painting was entered into the 2023 National Veterans Creative Arts Competition under the special recognition category called Mental Health Recovery. While it advanced past the local level, it did not win. Nonetheless, its creation and exhibition represent a significant step in my journey towards healing and raising awareness about the mental health struggles faced by veterans.

Through this artwork, I aim to convey the silent battle that many veterans face and the critical need for support and understanding. The tunnel and the lone figure illustrate the depths of isolation, while the poster serves as a reminder that help is available and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.