Carrying the Torch Forward for Veteran Mental Health
With the recent passing of former First Lady Carter, we lost a lifelong advocate for mental health in our Nation. Her efforts to destigmatize mental health issues and promote crucial interventions resonates profoundly, especially within the Veteran and military community. “If only we could consider mental illness as straightforwardly as we do physical illness, those affected could seek help and be treated in an open and effective way,” First Lady Carter once stated. We could not agree more.
We have learned more about the pivotal role she played throughout her tenure as First Lady in shining a spotlight on mental health concerns in the United States. She was instrumental in the approval and funding for the Mental Health System Act in 1980. She focused on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, increasing access to resources, and fostering a culture of understanding and empathy. Thirty-three years later, the torch she lit must be carried forward.
The challenges of post-service life can add unique barriers to Veterans for gaining access to resources and seeking intervention for mental health needs. While the Veteran mental health space isn't lacking in resources, academic studies, or funding for suicide prevention, collaboration and information dissemination remain critical for overcoming individual complexities at the local level.
Veterans Collaborative advocates for mental health wellness as a determinate of holistic wellness and longevity and actively supports resources in this space. Believing that everyone with a brain has mental health, we strive to break down barriers, address risks, and support resources in communities across our Nation. Collaboration and the support of local allies is critical, especially during the holiday season.
The holiday season can amplify the struggles faced by Veterans, with mental health issues and suicide rates statistically increasing during this time. A poll by Mission Roll Call found that 43% of Veterans experience a noticeable increase in mental health challenges during this time of year. It's crucial to acknowledge the added stressors, including the potential isolation and heightened emotions experienced by those who have served.
As we learn more and reflect on the legacy of First Lady Carter, we recognize the necessity of community support, especially for our military and Veteran populations. Building networks of understanding and empathy becomes a lifeline for those grappling with mental health challenges. By creating a sense of belonging and reducing isolation, we take fundamental steps in addressing the risk factors contributing to alarming statistics.
What can you do? The most impactful action we can take is something remarkably simple yet profoundly meaningful – checking in on our friends and family. A genuine conversation can make a world of difference, providing the support someone may desperately need. We are asking our network to pick up the phone to say hello this holiday season.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out. Resources like the Veteran Crisis Line and National Suicide Prevention Lifeline are invaluable to providing anonymous immediate assistance and guidance. Let us carry the torch forward by actively participating in the collective effort to support mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and ensure that no Veteran or military member fights their battles alone.