Honoring Veterans By Caring About Their Mental Health

Veterans Day (November 11th) is an important time to honor those who have served our country. In my opinion, honoring their sacrifices also means caring and being a resource for the unique mental health challenges many veterans face. For many veterans, the transition to civilian life can bring with it new struggles, and mental health concerns such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety are common. Supporting veterans’ mental well-being involves acknowledging these challenges, reducing the stigma around seeking help, and connecting veterans with the resources they need.

Common Mental Health Challenges Veterans May Face

At the end of the day, any veteran is at their core, a human being. And all human beings are susceptible to the development of a mental health disorder that may be rooted in their genetics, their individual experiences, or both. That being said, veterans often experience mental health challenges that are rooted and directly connected to their service experiences. Some of the most common conditions are:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions among veterans. It can develop after exposure to traumatic events and may include symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional numbness. Veterans who have experienced combat or other high-stress situations are particularly vulnerable.
Depression: Veterans may struggle with depression, sometimes triggered by loss of purpose after service, difficulties in transitioning to civilian life, or isolation. Symptoms of depression include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and feelings of hopelessness.
Anxiety and Panic Disorders: Veterans may experience constant worry, irritability, and physical symptoms like a racing heart, muscle tension, and dizziness, which can make it hard to adjust to civilian routines.
Substance Use Disorders: Some veterans may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with difficult emotions. This can create additional health issues and further complicate mental health challenges.

Destigmatizing Mental Health for Veterans

For many veterans, seeking help for mental health can feel uncomfortable or even unthinkable. Cultural norms within the military often emphasize resilience and self-reliance, making it difficult for veterans to reach out when they’re struggling. Acknowledging the impact of these norms and encouraging open conversations about mental health can help dismantle stigma. Here are a few key ways to support this shift:

Normalize Conversations About Mental Health & Encourage Peer Support: By talking openly about mental health, veterans can see that it’s not a weakness to seek help, but rather a proactive step toward overall well-being. Veterans often feel more comfortable opening up to others who have had similar experiences. Peer support groups, whether online or in-person, can be invaluable for veterans who want to share openly and feel understood.
Highlight Strength in Vulnerability: Reinforcing the idea that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, can help veterans feel more comfortable seeking help. Sharing stories from other veterans who have found help and healing through mental health resources can be especially impactful.

How Families, Friends, and Communities Can Support Veterans

A veteran’s support system plays a crucial role in their mental health journey. Here are some ways that family, friends, and communities can help:

Listen with Empathy and Patience: Many veterans struggle to talk about their experiences, especially with loved ones who may not understand or have a negative reaction to what they're sharing. Showing patience, being a good listener, and avoiding judgment can help veterans feel safe to share.
Encourage Access to Mental Health Resources: While it’s vital to offer emotional support, encouraging professional help can also be essential. If a veteran is open to the idea, help them explore resources specifically designed for veterans.
Recognize Warning Signs: Loved ones can help by recognizing the signs of mental health challenges, such as withdrawal from activities, changes in sleep, or irritability. Gently expressing concern and encouraging the veteran to seek support can make a big difference.
Build a Community of Support: Many veterans benefit from a strong network of fellow veterans, mentors, and supportive friends. Community organizations and veterans' groups often offer services that foster connection and resilience.

Resources for Veterans' Mental Health

There are many resources available to veterans seeking mental health support. Here are a few of the most accessible and widely respected:

Veterans Crisis Line: For immediate assistance, veterans can call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988, then pressing 1, or texting 838255. The line is staffed 24/7 by trained professionals who understand veterans' unique needs.
VA Mental Health Services: The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides a range of mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and medication. VA hospitals and clinics across the country have mental health specialists who are experienced in working with veterans. Visit mentalhealth.va.gov for more information.
Vet Centers: These community-based counseling centers offer individual and group counseling, particularly for veterans who experienced combat or military sexual trauma. Services are often free and are designed to be more approachable than traditional clinical settings.
Wounded Warrior Project: The Wounded Warrior Project provides mental health resources, advocacy, and a strong peer-support network for veterans. They also offer specialized programs for dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Learn more at woundedwarriorproject.org.
Give an Hour: Give an Hour offers free mental health care to veterans, service members, and their families through a volunteer network of licensed mental health professionals. More information is available at giveanhour.org.
Headstrong: Headstrong provides confidential, cost-free, and stigma-free mental health treatment for post-9/11 veterans. The organization has a network of clinicians experienced in trauma-informed care. Visit getheadstrong.org for more information.

Supporting Veterans Beyond Veterans Day

Supporting veterans’ mental health goes beyond just recognizing their service on Veterans Day. By fostering open dialogue, showing empathy, and helping veterans connect to resources, we can contribute to their long-term well-being. If you or a loved one are a veteran struggling with mental health, know that help is available, and taking the step to reach out is one of the most courageous things you can do. Together, we can honor veterans by ensuring they have the support and care they deserve.