Exploring Mental Health Issues in US Military Veterans
Veteran mental health is an increasingly important issue due to the high rate of suicide, PTSD, and other mental illnesses experienced by veterans. Over the last 20 years, veteran mental health issues have increased significantly due to longer deployments, multiple tours of duty, and exposure to greater levels of combat-related trauma than ever before. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, in 2000 there were 2 million veterans with PTSD or depression and by 2019 that number had risen to 3.7 million — an increase of 85%. Additionally, research has shown that veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan are more likely than those from other conflicts to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depression, substance abuse problems, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other mental health issues. This highlights the urgent need to address veteran mental health in order to provide better support for our nation’s heroes.
Introduction: Finding Support for Mental Health Challenges Faced by Veterans
As the number of U.S. military veterans continues to rise, so too does the prevalence of mental health issues within this population. According to a recent report by the Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately one in five veterans have been diagnosed with a mental health condition such as depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The effects of these conditions can be far-reaching and debilitating for those affected, often leading to feelings of isolation and hopelessness that can further worsen their symptoms. In order to better understand how we can support our nation’s veterans facing mental health challenges, it is important to explore what factors contribute to their struggles and how they are coping with them.
Causes Of Mental Health Issues In Veterans
Military service can be a highly stressful experience. From the physical and psychological demands of combat to the frequent deployment cycles. Veterans often find themselves struggling with mental health issues after their service has ended. Such issues are further compounded by other factors such as difficulty adjusting to civilian life, unemployment or underemployment, relationship problems, substance abuse, and financial difficulties. In addition to these external stressors, many veterans also face internal struggles related to their experiences in combat or during military training.
PTSD is one of the most common conditions that affect veterans due to its prevalence among those who have experienced extreme trauma while serving in the armed forces. Other mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can also arise from traumatic events or prolonged exposure to high-stress environments.
Coping Strategies For Veterans With Mental Health Issues
Despite the prevalence of mental health issues among veterans, there are a number of coping strategies that can help them manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. One important step is to seek professional help from a qualified mental health provider such as a psychologist or psychiatrist who can provide evidence-based treatment for conditions like PTSD and depression. In addition, many veterans find comfort in attending support groups where they can connect with other people who have experienced similar struggles. These groups provide an opportunity to share stories, receive emotional support, and learn coping skills that may be beneficial in managing difficult emotions or situations.
Finally, engaging in activities such as exercise and mindfulness can also help veterans to manage their mental health symptoms. Exercise can be an effective way to reduce stress and improve mood, while mindfulness practices such as deep breathing or meditation can help to calm the mind and body.
Conclusion: Supporting Our Veterans’ Mental Health
Veterans face a unique set of challenges when it comes to managing their mental health, but there are a number of strategies that they can use to cope with these issues. From seeking professional help and attending support groups to engaging in activities like exercise and mindfulness, there are many ways for veterans to take care of themselves both physically and mentally. By exploring these options, we can better equip our nation’s veterans with the tools they need to lead healthier lives after serving in the military.
Resources:
If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health issues, it is important to reach out for help from veteran mental health resources.
- Veterans Affairs: Mental Health Services — https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/
2. National Center for PTSD — https://www.ptsd.va.gov/
About the Author: Jamie is a former addiction counselor who now writes fiction about substance abuse and mental health issues. She has authored two short novels in her Memoirs of a Black Sheep series and a series she co-authors, The Borderline Chronicles, on Amazon Kindle Vella. Jamie has also formed her own small publishing company, Flawed By Design Publishing LLC, where she produces her published works and offers other writing and media services.
Flawed by Design is a woman-owned, veteran-owned business for those who seek a writing coach, editor, or proofreader.