Honoring Veterans Mental Health
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By Bree Minger, amft
This month we pause to recognize, honor and thank Veterans, active duty service members, and reserve members this Veteran’s Day. Often, many do not realize the depth in which service significantly impacts Veteran’s lifestyles, families, and mental health. In 2020, there were 6,146 Veteran deaths by suicide (2022 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report). This jarring number is one that the VA is on a mission to lower. Thankfully, mental health has become a greater focus for Veterans and their families in recent years.
Are you a Veteran or active duty member struggling? We thank you and there is hope.
The VA has many mental health resources for different topics such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, traumatic brain injuries, military sexual trauma, PTSD, schizophrenia, substance abuse, tobacco use, suicide prevention, the transition after returning from deployment, women, LGBTQ+, seniors and family or friends.
For many years within the military, mental health has been stigmatized for how it may impact a service member’s career. This is changing. Military One Source offers free and confidential counseling to service members and their families.
There are also many resources available from Military One Source including webinars, podcasts and apps designed for service members, spouses and children.
Local to Chicago and looking for a resource? Chicago Veterans provides a strong social support system for Veterans and their families transitioning from service.
Do you know a Veteran, active duty service member or a family member of a service member? Here’s how you may make a difference.
Reach out this month to thank them and check in to see how they are doing. Ask if there is any way you can help such as driving children to school, driving to doctor appointments, raking leaves, shoveling snow, running errands or making a meal.
Consider supporting a Veteran-owned business.
Find a volunteer or donation opportunity that honors or supports Veterans such as ride programs, service dog training, food banks or shelters.