Thank you for your service! Now…How can we serve veterans?
The Reality of Veterans’ Mental Health
Over 6% of the U.S. population has served or is currently serving in the military. In recent years, there has been growing concern about veterans’ mental health, both from those with personal ties and within the media.
When you think of those who have served, you may immediately think of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While PTSD is a common diagnosis among veterans, it’s far from the only one. Many also struggle with depression, substance use disorders (SUDs), and other mental health conditions.
Experiences such as deployment, combat, and the transition back to civilian life can act as powerful stressors. Without proper support, these challenges can escalate into serious mental health concerns and even substance use issues.
How Can Society Be Proactive?
What can we do to support those preparing to serve—or those who are currently serving—so they’re less likely to face these struggles in the future?
- Fight for mentorship: Advocate for leadership training within the military. Leaders should be equipped to recognize signs of distress and guide their peers toward getting the help they need.
- Get ahead: Encourage preventative education for individuals considering a military career. Training in stress management, emotional regulation, and gratitude practices can build resilience before challenges arise.
- Dismantle the stigma: Help shift the cultural stigma around mental health. Normalize coping strategies, self-care practices, and the use of support systems. Even the strongest soldiers need help sometimes—and that’s okay.
How can society be reactive?
- Raise awareness: Educate yourself and others about the mental health challenges veterans face—including PTSD, depression, and SUDs. Support local and national organizations that advocate for improved veteran services.
- Listen and be present: If you know a veteran personally, offer a non-judgmental space to talk. You don’t need to have all the answers; your presence and willingness to listen can mean the world.
- Encourage professional help: If someone needs more support than you can provide, connect them to resources like Veterans Affairs (VA), the Veterans Crisis Line (call 988, then press 1, or text 838255), or other veteran-focused organizations.
Making Small Changes Every Day
If you see someone in military apparel out in public, don’t hesitate to thank them for their service. A moment of human connection and gratitude can brighten someone’s entire day—and with enough support, it might even change a veteran’s life.
Let’s make sure every veteran feels appreciated, supported, and seen. They’ve served us. Now it’s our turn to serve them.
Resource:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572092/
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