Operation Tohidu ^® for Women

A holistic retreat helping our women warriors overcome obstacles to their recovery and supporting their positive transition towards post-traumatic growth.

Today there are over two million female veterans in the U.S. Many are struggling with the effects of post-traumatic stress or military sexual trauma. One out of five female veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. One out of four female veterans that use VA healthcare report experiencing military sexual trauma.

These women warriors struggle to recover not only their physical and mental health, but also their civilian or military lives: maintaining employment or duty status, finding jobs, rebuilding family relationships, and navigating their new place in our communities. Their path is far from easy and many need our support.

Melwood Veterans Services’ Operation Tohidu^® for Women retreats are held at Melwood’s Retreat & Recreation Center located in Nanjemoy, a peaceful and secluded wooded area in southern Maryland. The retreats are specially designed for women veterans and active duty service members struggling with the effects of service-related trauma. It is a program run by veterans for veterans.

“Tohidu” is a Cherokee word meaning peace of mind, body, and spirit. Operation Tohidu's^® experiential program focuses on confidence-building, outdoor activities, and group discussion in a relaxed, positive environment using proven techniques for the self-management of symptoms, stressors, and responses. Our highly trained staff of veteran facilitators, certified recreational support professionals, and peer mentors facilitate activities that highlight individual abilities and the value of group support to drive post-traumatic growth.

Cost: The 5-day retreat is free of charge to veterans and active duty service members, including accommodations and travel.