Active military service lasts on average a few years, but it can have a lifelong impact on your mental health. Data shows that veterans are more likely than non-veterans to deal with mental health issues and traumatic brain injuries.
A 2014 study found that one in four veterans met diagnostic criteria for a mental health problem, and one in 10 suffered from multiple illnesses.
Among the most commonly diagnosed conditions is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This is a symptom recognized from research studies on Vietnam War veterans.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), approximately 7% of veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, compared to 6% of civilians. PTSD rates vary by era of service and have increased significantly since World War II, and there are also risk factors such as deployment that triple the likelihood of diagnosis.
Another common condition among veterans is substance use disorder (SUD), which typically co-occurs with PTSD. The Department of Veterans Affairs reveals that more than one in five veterans with PTSD also has SUD, and about one-third of veterans seeking treatment for SUD also have PTSD. did.
Although these conditions are treatable, data shows that factors such as stigma, financial barriers, and issues within the VA health care system prevent some veterans from accessing the mental health care they need.
The consequences can be dire, with approximately 17 veterans dying by suicide every day, according to a 2022 report. If you are thinking of harming yourself or others, this is a mental health emergency and you should contact the 24/7 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 there is.
Charlie Health outlines some of the most alarming veteran mental health statistics that shed light on the veteran mental health crisis. He also offered some evidence-based tips for dealing with common conditions among military personnel. Whether you or a loved one has served in the military or not, it’s important to stay informed about veteran mental health and know how and when to get the mental health care you need .
1. Almost 1 in 3 veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have PTSD.
A large-scale survey of military veterans found that nearly a third (29%) of soldiers who served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom will develop PTSD at some point in their lives. It has been found. As previously mentioned, PTSD rates in veterans vary depending on many factors, including length of service. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, PTSD rates among lifelong veterans have increased more than eight times since World War II, but the agency notes that survey methods may influence this data. There is.
2. Female veterans are more than twice as likely to develop PTSD as male veterans.
Gender is another factor that influences PTSD rates among veterans. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, female veterans are more than twice as likely to experience PTSD (13%) than male veterans (6%). The Veterans Administration is in the process of further research into her PTSD rates among transgender and non-binary veterans.
3. Approximately 1 in 3 female veterans face sexual trauma while on duty.
The term “military sexual trauma” used by the VA refers to all sexual assault and harassment that occurs during military service. Military sexual trauma affects approximately 1 in 3 female veterans seen by VA, and it is thought that this may be a contributing factor to the high rates of PTSD among female veterans. ing. Approximately 1 in 50 male veterans also report military sexual trauma. But the department notes that this data does not include veterans seeking non-VA medical care.
4. About 1 in 10 veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan struggle with alcohol or drug use.
PTSD is not the only mental health condition that affects military personnel. Substance use disorders (SUDs) are also common, affecting about 1 in 10 veterans returning from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, according to VA data. As previously mentioned, SUD often co-occurs with PTSD among veterans (and non-veterans).
5. Approximately 1 in 10 military clinic outpatient appointments are for depression.
Studies show that 9% of outpatient appointments at military clinics are related to depression. The military environment can cause and exacerbate depression due to factors such as separation from loved ones, combat stress, and exposure to danger, increasing the risk for both active military and veterans.
6. Since 9/11, the military suicide rate is four times higher than the death rate in war operations.
Deaths by suicide have long been a factor in veteran mortality, accounting for four times the number of deaths from war operations since 9/11, according to a recent paper. The paper also concluded that this finding means that for the first time since the Vietnam War, suicide rates among veterans exceed those of non-veterans.
7. The suicide rate among veterans is 1.5 times higher than the general population.
Specifically, according to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, the suicide rate among veterans is 1.5 times that of the general population. In fact, the report concludes that suicide is the second leading cause of death for veterans under the age of 45.
3 Tips to Support Veterans’ Mental Health
The conditions most commonly seen in veterans are treatable, and many deaths by suicide among veterans are preventable. At the macro level, and above all, health care providers need to know the warning signs of a mental health crisis and increase cultural competency in the military. However, if you are a veteran or have a military family member, there are still things you can do to promote veteran health. Here are his three tips for supporting veterans’ mental health.
1. Try meditation or yoga
Both mindfulness exercises have been shown to improve symptoms of PTSD when used in conjunction with other mental health supports, such as therapy and medication.
2. Know the signs of a mental health crisis
Research shows that identifying suicidal tendencies and talking about them can reduce the risk of suicide. That’s why it’s important to know the warning signs of a mental health crisis. Common signs of a mental health crisis include:
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness and having no reason to live
- Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities
- Transfer of property or final arrangements
- Increased alcohol and drug use
- overwhelming sadness or emotional numbness
For more information, use online resources such as the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention or consider talking to a mental health professional.
3. Ask for help
Many veterans are unable to receive the mental health care they need due to stigma or lack of access, but remember that asking for help is a sign of courage. Most VA clinics have resources and referrals for mental health care, and there are many options online.
this story produced by charlie health Reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media.
