UNC THRIVE Program

08/13/2025

"Kintsugi" is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, creating something even more beautiful than before. At the UNC THRIVE Program, we embrace this philosophy as a reminder: even when life leaves us feeling fractured, we can heal in ways that make us stronger. Healing isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about honoring it, learning from it, and allowing it to shape a stronger, more resilient self.

We are deeply grateful to our Veterans and First Responders who have donated these remarkable works of art to our program. Each piece is a reflection of courage, resilience, and the power of healing. By opening their hearts and sharing their journeys, they offer a guiding light for others seeking their own path to restoration and hope.

08/07/2025

Among America’s most distinguished military honors, the Purple Heart carries a legacy that spans centuries. Its story begins during the Revolutionary War when General George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit on August 7, 1782, designed to honor soldiers for “any singularly meritorious action.” 

The honor was reborn in the 20th century following World War I. In 1932, marking the bicentennial of Washington’s birth, the War Department revived the award as the Purple Heart. The redesigned medal featured Washington’s profile and coat of arms set within a heart-shaped frame.

More than just recognition, this medal tells the story of sacrifice. Each Purple Heart represents a moment when someone chose service over safety, country over comfort. It reminds us that freedom isn’t free—it’s paid for with the courage of our brave men and women in uniform.

At the UNC THRIVE Program, we work to heal invisible wounds such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI). We humbly serve our Veterans and First Responders as they have served us.

Each August 7th, we observe Purple Heart Day to honor those brave Americans wounded or killed while defending our nation. Today, let us pause to acknowledge and thank those who sacrificed so much in service to our country.

08/04/2025

Today, we recognize the 235th birthday of the United States Coast Guard—honoring generations of service at sea, in the air, and along our nation’s shores. At the UNC THRIVE Program, we’ve had the privilege of working with Coast Guard members navigating the lasting effects of mild to moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Their stories reflect the same resilience and quiet professionalism that define their branch.

To those who continue to serve—and those who carry the unseen weight of that service—we see you. We’re here to help you move forward. Always honored to serve you.
“Semper Paratus” - “Always Ready”.

07/25/2025

At the UNC THRIVE Program, we truly value our Veteran team members. It takes a unique character to continue serving others. Their commitment and service to others inspire us every day!

07/15/2025

Grateful for the work CEO Jason Mihalik has done on behalf of veterans in first responder services! Thank you, Jason and our team!

The UNC THRIVE Program — established with a $12.5 million gift from the Avalon Action Alliance — treats veterans, first responders and active-duty service members experiencing traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress or related disorders.

Lead researcher Jason Mihalik shares more about the program's impact and goal to grow as THRIVE prepares to support its 300th participant.

https://go.unc.edu/f6F4Q

UNC EXSS UNITE!

07/04/2025

As we celebrate America’s 249th birthday, we’re reminded by our UNC THRIVE Program, Chief Medical Officer/Retired U.S. Army Officer, Dr. Shawn Kane, of the profound words from our nation’s founding: “We hold these truths to be self-evident...” These words are a timeless reminder of the freedoms we cherish: Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.

At UNC THRIVE, we see firsthand the sacrifices our veterans and first responders have made to protect these freedoms. As President Reagan urged us, let’s take time this weekend not only to celebrate, but to reflect, educate, and ensure we preserve the rare and special gift of freedom for future generations.
Duty. Service. Honor.

06/27/2025

On PTSD Awareness Day, we recognize the hidden wounds of those who have served in uniform, both in combat and within our communities. The brave members of our military and first responder communities endure experiences that few fully understand, and the effects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can last long after their missions.

At the UNC THRIVE Program, we encourage participants in our Intensive Outreach Program to express their struggles by creating a mask that reflects what they show others while concealing their inner challenges. We stand with these heroes by providing tools for healing. Through compassionate, individualized care, we help Veterans and First Responders navigate trauma’s lasting impacts and reclaim their strength. Their service was selfless, and our support must be steadfast.

06/23/2025

Brain Health Awareness Month is a good time to remember that brain health is physical health. Our UNC THRIVE Program provides tools to help Veterans and First Responders optimize their brain health! thriveprogram.unc.edu

06/20/2025

Question: What is the UNC THRIVE Program, and what can I expect?
Today, we're proud to introduce our UNC THRIVE Program "What to Expect" video series! This engaging series includes 24 concise, informative videos—each just 2 to 3 minutes long—highlighting our clinical and administrative services.
Our primary goal is to help Veterans and First Responders understand how the THRIVE Program effectively supports recovery from mild to moderate Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We utilize a comprehensive, multidisciplinary team approach designed to meet participants exactly where they are, providing personalized evaluation and care tailored to each individual's healing journey.
Whether you’re exploring participation in our program or simply curious about how we support our Veteran and First Responder communities, this video series is an excellent starting point. Duty. Service. Honor.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlSQ14Al02rCtHMmEtqcPlgQoUx1NdhyT&si=g0CgmB5ldg19LUWh

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We are excited to introduce our special UNC THRIVE Program "What to Expect" video series! We developed these videos based on direct feedback from our Veteran...

06/19/2025

The UNC THRIVE Program is honored to announce a significant milestone, having now provided care and support to over 300 Veterans and First Responders navigating the complex challenges of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)!
Each participant represents a unique story of service, sacrifice, and resilience. This achievement showcases the commitment of our multidisciplinary team and the confidence that those who have served have in our program. This landmark would not have been achievable without the generous support from the Avalon Action Alliance and other committed organizations that have backed our initiative!
As we mark this moment, we remain committed to delivering individualized, evidence-based care that empowers our participants to heal, regain balance, and continue thriving in their personal lives, families, and communities.
The healing journey is deeply personal, and we are privileged to walk alongside each Veteran and First Responder who entrusts us with their care.

We warmly invite those who have faithfully served our country and are seeking answers to reach out and connect with us. Remember, you are never alone on this journey.

06/13/2025

Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) Day reminds us that even after life’s most difficult experiences, growth is possible. PTG is not about ignoring pain, but about recognizing the resilience and strength that can emerge through healing. It honors the journey of those who’ve faced trauma and found new purpose, deeper meaning, and renewed connection. We here at the UNC THRIVE Program have helped hundreds of Veterans and First Responders find the direction to post-traumatic growth or PTG. We welcome you to connect with us if you’re struggling. Email us at thrive@unc.edu or call us at (984) 215-5151.

Elements of PTG:
Appreciation of life.
Relationships with others.
New possibilities in life.
Personal strength.
Spiritual change.