November 11, 2022 11:00 AM
author:
Huntsman Institute of Mental Health
Leaving the battlefield is not always easy for military members. Some people keep arguing even when they get home.
We honor our veterans every November 11th. This year, learn more about the mental health issues service members face and how you can support them.
What mental health issues do veterans face?
almost 1 in 5 veterans experience some mental health problem Post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Many people also traumatic brain injury This can lead to mental health issues over time.
These persistent problems, if left untreated, can seriously affect veterans and their loved ones. RAND, a military research institute, reports that a service member Diagnosed with depression, PTSD, traumatic brain injury also experience Higher incidence of physical health problems and higher suicide rate.
However, it is important for veterans to understand There is help available.
Say, “Veterans should know, there’s nothing wrong with you.” Julian Jepsen, is a behavioral health administrator at the Huntsman Institute for Mental Health and a member of the Army Reserve. “Many mental health issues are signs of overadaptation. People just need a little help adjusting to new situations, and mental health professionals can help with that.”
Signs the veteran may be struggling
Symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety vary from person to person, but sudden changes in a person’s behavior are often a sign that they are experiencing mental health problems.
when PTSD When it occurs, it occurs in four clusters of symptoms:
- re-experiencing the event
- Flashback
- nightmare
- horrible thoughts
- internal and external avoidance
- drinking without thinking about experience
- Move away from the person, place, or object that reminds you of the experience
- Cognitive and mood changes
- Difficulty remembering events
- make others dangerous
- Feelings of guilt and blame about what happened to yourself or someone else
- Separation (zoning out or feeling like you are in a dream)
- arousal and reactivity
- easy to be surprised
- feeling anxious
- have trouble falling asleep
- outburst of anger
There are differences in how men, women, and children experience or present these symptoms.
common signs of depression When anxiety These include increased irritability, changes in sleep patterns, fears turning into intrusive thoughts that get stuck in your head, and a lack of willingness to participate in activities you enjoy.
How can you help distressed veterans?
It can be difficult to know when a veteran is having a hard time. One of the most important things we can all do is listen. There is still stigma associated with talking about mental health, and it is the responsibility of all of us to reduce it through open and unbiased dialogue.
It can also help veterans integrate into more social activities.Many people experiencing PTSD, depression, or anxiety can isolate and exacerbate their symptoms. .
Finally, keep an eye out and seek professional help if needed. Understanding and early recognition of symptoms can save lives and help veterans live happier, healthier lives.
If you or a veteran you know needs support, reach out. There are many crisis lines, warmlines and chat services that can provide immediate help. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also offers several services to current and former military personnel.use VA’s Location Finder Tool And ask to speak with the director of mental health services, your local mental health recovery coordinator, or a patient advocate.