Our country’s Veterans, those who have sacrificed so much to protect us, deserve our unconditional support. As we approach World Mental Health Day on October 10th, it’s crucial to acknowledge that our Veterans face unique and overwhelming challenges when it comes to mental health.
The Urgent Need for Stronger Mental Health Support
Our Veterans carry the heavy burden of service, and the transition back to civilian life is overwhelming for many. From post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to anxiety, depression, and more, too many of these heroes bear invisible wounds. Many have faced combat exposure, deployment stressors, sexual trauma, physical injuries, the loss of comrades, and struggle with the challenges of adjusting to post-deployment life.
Veterans face an often insurmountable barrier towards seeking help: the stigma surrounding mental health. For Veterans, the protectors of our country and heroes who keep us safe, this stigma is even more prevalent. Those who put their lives on the line to keep people safe fear admitting to the perceived weaknesses associated with mental health.
When we fail to provide our Veterans with the support they need, it’s easy for them to slip through the cracks and away from the care they need and have earned. The consequences of this are devastating. In the United States, 17 Veterans die by suicide every day. These are the brave individuals who put their lives on the line for our safety, and we cannot allow them to suffer in silence.
A Call to Action for Veteran Mental Health
It’s time to take meaningful action and ensure our Veterans receive the support they’ve earned, regardless of their age, branch, or era of service.
1 – Expand Our Understanding: Whether it’s issues with mental health, substance abuse, or homelessness stemming from their service, we must acknowledge these unique challenges and work collaboratively to address them. Civilians can broaden their comprehension of Veterans’ experiences and the challenges they may face by:
- Taking more time to listen to Veterans in their lives
- Getting involved with local Veterans issues and causes
- Paying attention when they see or hear something in the media
- Researching expert perspectives on the topic of Veteran mental health
2 – Connect with Veterans and Break the Stigma: Reach out to the Veterans in your circle. Engage in meaningful conversations, actively listen to their stories, and extend a helping hand. It’s important to promote open discussions about mental health and shatter the stigma surrounding it. Make it known that you’re there for your loved ones, fostering an environment of understanding and empathy that lets them know they’re not alone.
3 – Support Organizations Like Nation’s Finest: Organizations like Nation’s Finest are on the front lines, committed to providing comprehensive mental health support for Veterans. Your contributions can help bolster supportive services that assist with:
- Stable housing and homelessness prevention
- Gainful employment
- Rehabilitation from substance abuse
- Intensive behavioral therapy and counseling
- Other crucial support
Give the gift of hope this World Mental Health Day and make a donation to Nation’s Finest.
Reaching Out for Mental Health Support
If you are a Veteran struggling with your mental health or you know a Veteran who is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your journey to healing begins with a simple call to 1-833-468-9676 or 1-833-GOT-YOR6.
For Veterans in crisis who need immediate assistance, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then press 1.
Let’s stand together, not just on World Mental Health Day but every day, to honor our Veterans with the support, respect, and compassion they rightfully deserve. Our commitment to their mental health is a pledge we must uphold.
