November 11th each year, Veterans Day serves as a reminder to honor and express our appreciation for the sacrifices made by our military service members. It’s a day to acknowledge the bravery and commitment of our veterans and reflect on their dedication to protecting our freedoms. But beyond the medals, the parades, and the ceremonies, it’s also a time to bring attention to an often-overlooked aspect of veteran care: their mental health.
While the physical wounds of war are more visible and well-understood, the emotional and psychological toll of military service can be just as profound—sometimes even more so. Veterans, especially those returning from combat, face a range of mental health challenges that can continue to affect them long after they leave the service. As a society, we must recognize their sacrifices and support their ongoing journey to heal, adapt, and thrive.
The Hidden Wounds of War
Mental health concerns affecting veterans are not new, but in recent years, there has been a growing understanding and recognition of this complex issue. The challenges many veterans face include:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): One of the most common and well-known mental health conditions affecting veterans, PTSD can result from experiencing or witnessing traumatic events during service. It can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance coping, and a sense of emotional numbness that can impact veterans in their workplace, relationships, or daily life.
- Depression: Many veterans struggle with feelings of hopelessness or prolonged sadness stemming from their experiences while in the military or the difficulty of adjusting to civilian life after their service. Depression can be isolating, making it harder for veterans to seek help.
- Substance Use Disorders: Some veterans turn to alcohol or drugs as a means of coping with mental health conditions or the stresses of reintegration into civilian life. While this may offer temporary relief, it often exacerbates their problems in the long term. This can cause added stress on veteran families as well.
The Significance of Support and Resources
Fortunately, the list of resources available to support veterans facing mental health challenges continues to grow. Organizations like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Wounded Warrior Project, and local groups provide counseling, support groups, and other resources to help veterans address their mental health needs.
However, stigma remains a significant barrier for many veterans in seeking support. There’s often a culture within the military that encourages toughness and independence, which can make it difficult for veterans to ask for help, especially when it comes to mental health.
This is where civilian communities can make a real difference. The more we normalize conversations about mental health, the more likely veterans are to reach out when they need support. By acknowledging veterans’ unique mental and emotional challenges, we create an environment where asking for help is seen as a strength rather than a weakness.
The Role of Veteran Loved Ones and Communities
Veterans’ mental health doesn’t only affect them; it can have a ripple effect on their families, friends, and communities. Loved ones play a crucial role in supporting veterans as they navigate their mental health journeys. Often, the first signs of something wrong come from those closest to the veteran, so family and friends must stay aware, patient, and non-judgmental.
The ideal support system for a veteran is not just through professional treatment alone but also from a robust and understanding network of loved ones willing to listen, offer empathy, and help them find resources.
Communities can also play a vital role by creating spaces for veterans to connect, share experiences, and feel understood. Organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) or the American Legion can help fill this void. Additionally, communities that promote awareness of the challenges unique to veterans allow veterans to feel more accepted.
Moving Forward
As we observe Veterans Day, it’s crucial to reflect on how we can do more than honor veterans for their service—we must also ensure they have access to the support and care they need to lead fulfilling, healthy lives. This means continuing to advocate for mental health resources, reducing stigma, and providing a network of support that veterans can rely on both during and after their service. This day, and every day, we can show our veterans that they are not alone and that their well-being matters.
If you or a veteran you know is struggling, there are resources that can help. Nationally, you can call 988 and Press 1 OR text 838255 to connect to a VA responder on the Veterans Crisis Line. Locally, Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center (866-973-2241) offers various services, including Clinical Therapy, Medication-Assisted Treatment, and Crisis Intervention. No one should have to face their challenges alone.
Crystal Poovey
Prevention & Promotion Specialist