Mental Health Awareness Month: Supporting Veteran Mental Health

At Nation’s Finest, Mental Health Awareness Month is deeply significant. With a commitment to providing comprehensive support for Veterans, we understand the various challenges they face, which often make it difficult to achieve independence and self-sufficiency after leaving the service. Veteran mental health issues commonly stem from personal experiences that civilians may struggle to comprehend. 

Each Veteran’s military experience is unique, resulting in a range of mental health issues. Trauma is a common factor, with many Veterans facing distressing experiences that make it hard to do everyday activities like eating, sleeping, working, or relaxing. 

For individuals like Mike, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran who was a sharpshooter in the military and is now a client of Nation’s Finest, mental scars can worsen over time without proper support. “I contemplated ending it all,” Mike recalls, “but a call from my 32-year-old-son saved my life.” Mike’s story emphasizes the importance of timely intervention and support from resources like Nation’s Finest.

Too often, Veteran mental health issues remain undiagnosed and untreated. Stigma and the fear of seeking help often prevent Veterans from accessing the support they need. The idealized image of Veterans as invincible heroes and symbols of patriotism can create misconceptions, leading many to hide their struggles and navigate through them on their own. 

Matt, another Marine Corps Veteran and a former client of Nation’s Finest, tragically succumbed to PTSD after battling with his mental health in silence. A young man who always wanted to join the military and be a hero and protector of others, Matt struggled to seek the help he needed. “He wasn’t much of a sharer,” Matt’s Dad says about his oldest son. “I don’t think he ever came to terms with what happened over there.”

Click here to learn more about the impact of mental health stigma on our Veterans.

Immediate action is crucial when addressing Veteran mental health issues. Do not wait to seek support. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then Press 1. 

Even if you don’t have a personal connection to a Veteran experiencing mental health issues, you still have the power to make a difference. Your support enables us to provide vital programs and services to Veterans and their families. Donate now to Nation’s Finest and help us continue our mission of providing comprehensive support for those who’ve served.