Exploring Veteran Mental Health
By Katherine [Katu] Medina-Pineda, MHC-LP
Veterans in the United States face unique mental health challenges that often persist long after their service ends. For instance, while veterans only make up 7% of the population in this empire, they represent 13% of the unhoused population. Research indicates that conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and substance use disorders are prevalent among veterans, with significant implications for their well-being and quality of life.
A 2022 study found that 38% of veterans had a mental health diagnosis code on their medical charts, though it can be interpreted that number is likely inaccurate considering the systemic and personal barriers that may hinder many veterans from accessing medical or mental health care including homelessness, lack of social support, and limited accessible information on the free social services they may be eligible to receive. The veteran population is more likely to experience mood disorders such as anxiety and depression, and twice more likely to develop substance use disorder– all of which are natural and common responses to surviving and perpetuating violence. According to the 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, in 2022 there were over 40,000 confirmed reports of veterans who died by suicide, averaging roughly thirteen deaths per day. Veterans are twice as likely to attempt and complete suicide than the non-veteran population.
Despite the availability of services through the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), many veterans encounter barriers to accessing mental health care. A study published in Psychiatric Services found that over two-thirds of veterans with serious mental illness reported at least one barrier to mental health care, with personal factors such as stigma and mistrust of the healthcare system being particularly prevalent. Rural veterans face additional challenges, including long travel distances to facilities and a lack of local providers. Research indicates that veterans in rural areas often experience increased barriers to accessing care, which can exacerbate mental health issues.
Treatment and Interventions
Traditional therapeutic interventions, while effective, may not fully address the needs of all veterans. Emerging research highlights the potential of an interdisciplinary approach to treatment yielding better long-term outcomes for veterans than simply engaging in traditional talk therapy and pharmacotherapy. In addition to individual therapy, grounding practices such as yoga, tai chi, and meditation have shown promise in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress and improving overall well-being. A study highlighted by Verywell Mind indicates that these practices can help manage stress, improve physical health, and enhance mental resilience among veterans.
Furthermore, peer support groups may provide a sense of community for veterans who may experience isolation and loneliness as a result of their experiences being so starkly distinct from those of the general population. A study published in Psychiatric Services found that veterans with serious mental illness who participated in peer support programs reported improved mental health outcomes and greater satisfaction with care.
As mentioned earlier, social support plays a crucial role in the mental health of veterans. This is supported by a 2023 study published in JAMA Psychiatry that found veterans with strong social support networks were less likely to experience suicidal ideation, even during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. That is why community-based programs that foster social connections and provide support can be instrumental in addressing mental health issues among veterans. These programs not only offer emotional support but also help veterans reintegrate into civilian life, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting overall mental well-being.
Conclusion
The mental health challenges faced by U.S. veterans are multifaceted and require a comprehensive approach to care. While significant strides have been made in providing services through the VHA, barriers such as stigma, traveling distance, and personal experiences that shape the relationship veterans have to medical and mental health providers may hinder their access to care. Innovative approaches, including complementary therapies and peer support programs, offer promising avenues for enhancing mental health outcomes among veterans. By addressing these challenges and expanding access to diverse treatment options, we can better support those who have served our country in maintaining their mental health and well-being. Moreover, concerted efforts need to be made to understand the added complexity and difficulty for veterans who are also BIPOC, Queer, Trans and gender non-corming, and physically disabled– intersections which are rarely reviewed and assessed when learning more about the veteran population at large.
Sources:
Bovin MJ, Miller CJ, Koenig CJ, Lipschitz JM, Zamora KA, Wright PB, Pyne JM, Burgess JF. Veterans' experiences initiating VA-based mental health care. Psychol Serv. 2019 Nov;16(4):612-620. doi: 10.1037/ser0000233. Epub 2018 May 21. PMID: 29781656; PMCID: PMC7444826.
Drapalski, A. L., Milford, J., Goldberg, R. W., Brown, C. H., & Dixon, L. B. (2008). Perceived Barriers to Medical Care and Mental Health Care Among Veterans With Serious Mental Illness. Psychiatric Services, 59(8), 921–924. https://doi.org/10.1176/ps.2008.59.8.921
U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. (2024, December). 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report. https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/docs/data-sheets/2024/2024-Annual-Report-Part-2-of-2_508.pdf
Yoga, tai chi, and meditation provide relief for veterans with chronic pain and PTSD. (2020, November 10). Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/alternative-therapies-for-veterans-5086853?utm