Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels
Veterans need help, here is how we can support them
by Davina Liljenstam
Veterans return to society and resume civilian life after fulfilling their commission of servicing the country. The path may sound natural and logical, but in reality, many face a variety of challenges, including physical and mental health issues, employment difficulties, and financial problems. It is estimated that 40,056 veterans are homeless on any given night, nearly twice as many over the course of a year.* Among them, a large number of displaced and at-risk veterans live with the lingering effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
We may have gained a glimpse of understanding of what military life is like from movies or TV programs. Veterans resided in an enclosed setting and were trained to rely on their comrades, constantly having faith in their team to have each other's backs. Such a strong sense of teamwork and trust does not disappear when veterans are honorably discharged from the military. Veterans often have difficulty adjusting to the world where self-sufficiency is the norm. The idea of being independent on one’s own is an enormous contrast to many veterans, and there is no buffer in place for such a transition. It is not hard to imagine how lost some of our veterans could feel and how it can induce stress and mental health issues.
What can we do to help veterans? Firstly, we should be aware of the difficulties and challenges and start the transition process as early as possible. Organizations and resources should be presented to the veterans before the military discharge process begins. Secondly, we should share knowledge of PTSD and raise awareness of the mental health issues that veterans may face. We can be good listeners and show our care and interest in helping them. Thirdly, if possible, we can donate money or time to reputable veteran’s organizations to make their services more accessible. Liberty Medical Center of Texas is one of many great organizations helping veterans.
Our veterans have made immense sacrifices to protect our nation and safeguard our values. It is our duty to repay that debt of gratitude by supporting them in any way we can.
*Reference: https://nchv.org/veteran-homelessness/
To become a member and receive our services, please apply on our Liberty Medical Center of Texas Form and learn more about how we can help you today.
Who is a Veteran?
|
Breath: The Anchor of Your Life
|
Female Veterans and Mental Health
|
