Military Prioritizes Mental Health Concerns

The US military has long valued optimal physical health, but increasingly untreated mental health is being recognized as a major problem in the armed forces. Many of its policies have been changed in recent years to encourage better mental health, and the Department of Defense now acknowledges that untreated mental health conditions pose a greater safety threat than those that are being treated. As a result, more mental health resources for active-duty service men and women and veterans are now available than ever before.

Many soldiers returning to civilian life experience emotional challenges. Some veterans miss the structure and sense of purpose they found in military life. Some encounter combat memories or feelings of isolation when living with family members who don’t understand the experience of serving. Readjustment to civilian life takes time.

Three mental health concerns are most common among veterans and those serving in the military: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). PTSD is triggered by traumatic events such as combat, assault, or disasters, and can cause sleep issues, anger, and nightmares. Depression is chronic sadness or hopelessness that interferes with daily life and may require treatment. TBI is usually the result of a significant blow to the head or body and may cause headaches, fatigue, memory problems, or mood swings.

Many resources are available to veterans and active military who are concerned about a mental health condition:
 

Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource that’s available 24/7 to anyone, even if you’re not registered with VA or enrolled in VA healthcare. Many of the caring, qualified responders are veterans themselves. 1-800-273-8255. Press 1 if you are having thoughts of suicide. https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Military One Source has confidential counselors available for information and advice to help with the transition to civilian life. 1-800-342-9647. https://www.militaryonesource.mil/

National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) has more than 600 state organizations and affiliates across the country, many offering support programs for veterans. https://www.nami.org/findsupport

Real Warriors links service members, veterans, and their families with care and provides free, confidential resources, including online articles, print materials, videos and podcasts. https://www.realwarriors.net/

After Deployment is an online resource supporting service members, their families, and veterans with common post-deployment concerns, offering mental health self-care solutions, a virtual assistant, blogs, and community forums. https://www.afterdeployment.org/

My Health eVet includes information and details on federal and VA benefits and local services. www.myhealth.va.gov

inTransition is a free, confidential program that offers specialized coaching and assistance for active-duty service members, National Guard members, reservists, veterans, and retirees who need access to mental health care. 1-800-424-7877. https://www.pdhealth.mil/resources/intransition