There is a lot of talk about veteran mental health, but how many people know the numbers? The veterans’ mental health crisis is often spoken about in generalities. To get a better understanding of the scope of the problem, we need to take a look at the numbers.

A study showed that annually, veterans with PTSD account for 11-20%. Past research has noted that the general public only comprises 4% in a year. But, when we look at veterans who have served in combat, it is found that the number is staggeringly higher. It is nearly 5 times as much.

It’s so important for us to support our veterans and raise awareness about the issue of mental illness among veterans. But we need to do better at supporting our veterans. So first, contact them if you know a veteran and see how they’re doing. Then, let’s look at some ways we can help our vets get the care they need.

Do Veterans Have Higher Rates of Mental Illness?

Veterans are more likely than the general population to suffer from mental illness. According to the Veterans Administration, 11-20% of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom have PTSD. That is an astounding figure, and it does not include veterans from other battles. After returning from combat, many veterans suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. Sadly, many veterans don’t seek help because they are ashamed or embarrassed. It is critical for veterans and their families to recognize the signs of mental illness and how to seek treatment. Treatment is available if you or a veteran you know has a mental illness. The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can reach them by phone at 1-800-273-8255 or online at veteranscrisisline.net. Veterans Affairs also has a website dedicated to mental health resources for veterans, which can be found at mentalhealth.va.gov.

How Many Veterans in the US Have Mental Illness?

According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, nearly half of all Veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq have been diagnosed with a mental disorder related to substance abuse disorders (SUDs). Sixty-three percent of those diagnosed with SUDs also satisfied the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In addition, a study by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) found that veterans who served in Afghanistan and Iraq were more likely to experience symptoms of PTSD than veterans of other conflicts. According to the VA, 11-20% of veterans who fought in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom have PTSD. That is an astounding figure, and it does not include veterans from other battles.

Of recent Afghanistan and Iraq veterans, 63% diagnosed with substance abuse disorders also met the criteria for post-traumatic stress disorder. Many veterans with PTSD also have Substance Use Disorders. They are more likely to be afflicted by additional psychiatric or medical conditions. Seizures, liver disease, HIV, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder are a few examples.

What Are the 3 Most Commonly Diagnosed Mental Health Conditions Among Veterans?

Veterans’ three most frequent mental health issues are PTSD, depression, and anxiety. While each veteran experiences mental illness in their way, these three conditions are often comorbid, meaning they frequently occur together. As a result, veterans may experience symptoms of one condition that worsen the symptoms of another. For example, a veteran with PTSD may start drinking alcohol to cope with their symptoms, which can then lead to problems with depression and anxiety. 

Veterans need to seek help from a mental health professional if they are experiencing any symptoms of mental illness. Mental health professionals can provide veterans with resources and support to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.

Although suicide, TBI, substance abuse, and interpersonal violence get a lot of attention when it comes to mental health in this population, they are not the only issues that matter. These difficulties can have far-reaching consequences for service members and their families. Not only are mental risks increased for those who see combat or are deployed, but general difficulties can also come from military service. The expression of various mental health issues does not follow a strict timetable. Experiencing close combat or separating from the military can be tremendously stressful for individuals and families.

Why Do so Many Veterans Have Mental Health Issues?

Because veterans, especially those who have seen combat, are often exposed to more stress and trauma than non-veterans. Veterans may also have difficulty readjusting to civilian life after spending years in the military. The structure and support veterans receive in the military can be difficult to find in civilian life, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Many veterans also have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can be brought on by experiences such as combat, natural catastrophes, or car crashes. PTSD can cause veterans to feel anxious, depressed, and even suicidal.

What Are Some Ways That Families Can Support a Veteran With Mental Health Issues?

Families can play a vital role in supporting veterans with mental health issues. Here are some ways that families can help:

• Educate yourself about mental illness and the available treatments.
• Encourage your loved one to seek help from a mental health professional.
• Be supportive and understanding. Avoid judgment or criticism.
• Reach out to other veterans and their families to form a support network.
• Encourage healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, relaxation techniques, and journaling.
• Make sure your loved one has access to resources, such as the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255) and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255).

You are not alone if you are a veteran dealing with mental health concerns. Many resources are available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help.

One reason depression is so common in the military is that veterans often have difficulty readjusting to civilian life after spending years in the military. The structure and support veterans receive in the military can be difficult to find in civilian life, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Additionally, veterans may be more likely to experience depression due to their exposure to stress and trauma.

Many military personnel experiences long-term separations from family and exposure to traumatic events, both of which can increase the risk of developing depression. Statistics show that this group’s risk is five times higher during any given 30-day window.