Monday, November 11 is Veteran’s Day. It is a day where we honor those who have fought for our freedom, many of whom have made some significant personal sacrifices. It is important that we take the time to recognize their valiant service. Yet for many veterans, they still suffer from some of the consequences of the trauma they have seen and felt during their military service. We as a country have not had the best record of providing them with the support that they need as a result of their traumatic experiences.
I have been a long-time advocate for our veterans. Unfortunately, they still report high incidences of mental health issues, serious PTSD, drug related issues and suicide (approximately 20 per day in America). Both they and their families have experienced long-lasting consequences that sometimes end in tragedy.
I have been encouraged in recent years to see more mental health services, reduction of co-pays, hotlines and tele-mental health services that have been expanded. I know there are many organizations that are helping veterans with practical care, healthcare, mental health care and related support for their families during their recovery.
I still believe the best way to help veterans who are struggling is to care for their needs and for the needs of their families. One barricade is their need for privacy and the mental health stigmas that are still pervasive that keep them from seeking the help they desperately need.
Obviously, there is a need to normalize their needs and encourage them to get the help that they deserve.
I do appreciate how so many influencers in our country are honoring our veterans in sports events, community events, special community events, etc. I am pleased that we have given a great deal of respect and tribute to them that is more prevalent in America than I have seen in my lifetime.
Yet there is so much more to do to give them private access to services and the support they need. It is my hope to be a part of that movement of care and support for them in the future and am working on innovative ways to provide that care.
As we offer our gratitude this Veteran’s Day, let us honor their service by recognizing the issues that they encounter and helping them navigate their physically costly and post-traumatic experiences. Providing the help and support they need is our best way to tangibly express our commitment and appreciation for their service.
Gerry Vassar
President/CEO
One Comment
Thank you for sharing this important issue. If you make strides in being a part of care for Veterans I would love to hear about it to see where I can help.