In September last year, the Ad Council and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) collaborated on a Suicide Prevention Month campaign.
Michael Trotter Jr. was one of the military veterans interviewed. After serving in the Iraq War, he described himself as homeless, despondent, and “barely hanging on by a thread.”
Writer-director Andre Muir fronted the initiative under ‘Don’t Wait. Reach Out’. The national initiative urges veterans to seek help for depression, PTSD, and other mental health challenges.
These struggles can be isolating, but veterans are not alone. There is help, there is hope, and there is restoration when faith, community, and professional care walk hand-in-hand.
This article offers inspiration and guidance for veterans navigating ongoing mental health challenges. It highlights available resources, lifts the veil on stigma, and urges a path forward rooted in compassion, resilience, and faith.
Understanding the Battle Within
Veterans are disproportionately affected by mental health conditions. The VA reports that nearly one in four active-duty members shows signs of a mental health condition.
PTSD, depression, and substance use disorder are the most common conditions. PTSD alone affects 11% to 20% of veterans from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
This ongoing mental toll is complicated by toxic chemicals, such as those linked to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) that military firefighters encountered during military service.
Studies show a connection between AFFF exposure and increased mental health risks, including cognitive issues and emotional instability.
However, mental illness is not a moral failure or weakness. It’s a health condition that, like any wound, needs proper care.
Facing the Stigma with Courage and Grace
Despite progress, veterans struggle to seek help.
In the military, strength and toughness are seen as virtues. Asking for help, unfortunately, is still misperceived by some as a sign of weakness. The stigma can delay diagnosis and therapy.
Treatment Indiana explains that internalized shame and fear of judgment can keep veterans suffering in silence. Yet, there is strength in vulnerability.
Admitting you need help is not giving up; it’s gearing up for a different kind of battle, one that leads to wholeness.
Our faith reminds us of the strength found in humility. Jesus Himself sought solitude and support during His most difficult moments. As followers of Christ, we are reminded that even the strongest warriors need rest, support, and love.
Steps Toward Healing
Treatment is rarely linear, but small steps matter. If you or someone you love is a veteran living with mental health challenges, consider the following:
Reach Out to the VA and File a Claim if Needed
The VA provides a range of mental health services, therapy, substance use treatment, suicide prevention, and crisis care.
If your struggles are tied to toxic exposure such as AFFF, you can file VA claims for exposure to AFFF. Filing VA disability claims can be daunting; however, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) or VFW can assist.
Ask a firefighting foam lawyer to explain the VA claims process. TorHoerman Law adds that you may also be entitled to VA disability compensation and VA disability benefits, as well as qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit.
Embrace Counseling and Peer Support
Individual therapy, especially trauma-focused approaches like EMDR or cognitive behavioral therapy, is proven to help veterans process pain and regain control.
Group therapy and veteran-specific programs offer a sense of belonging and an antidote to isolation.
Cultivate Spiritual Resilience
Engage in prayer, meditation, journaling, or speak with a chaplain. Reflect on Psalms or Scripture passages that affirm God’s love and presence. Join or form a faith-based support group at your church.
Practice Daily Self-Care
Mental wellness includes exercise, sleep, nutrition, and connection. A walk outdoors, a call with a friend, or limiting alcohol can make a difference. Lakeside Behavioral Health notes that even small lifestyle changes can support long-term recovery.
Involve Loved Ones
Family and friends are the first to notice changes. Their support can be a lifeline. Encourage honest conversations. Let them be part of your journey.
Faith and Healing: A Powerful Alliance
Catholic faith and mental health care are not mutually exclusive. They complement each other.
Prayer, Scripture, sacraments, and spiritual companionship can be profound sources of comfort and grounding. At the same time, licensed counselors, peer support groups, and medication may be vital for mental wellness.
In Philippians 4:13, we are reminded: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
This includes reaching out for professional help, trusting that a positive outcome is possible, and embracing the grace God gives.
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