Oftentimes, when we think of veterans, the first thing that comes to mind is heroism. We think of people who have placed their life on the line for our country and admire them. However, many don’t realize that veterans often suffer from various mental health issues after returning home.

Many individuals who have served or are currently serving in the military struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), addiction, depression, and suicidal ideation. The statistics for these problems have grown worse in recent years, and there is a demand for solutions to them.

We will take a closer look at some of the most common issues that veterans face and discuss ways to get help if you are a veteran who is struggling. Thanks for reading!

What Are the Biggest Problems Facing Veterans?

Veterans often suffer from various problems, including physical and mental health issues and homelessness. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of the most significant challenges confronting veterans (PTSD). PTSD is a mental illness that can be brought on by witnessing or experiencing a stressful event. Unfortunately, many veterans who suffer from PTSD do not seek help due to the stigma attached to the condition or fear of being discharged from the military. VA hospitals offer veterans treatment for PTSD and other mental health issues, but there is still much work to be done to care for our veterans properly.

Another significant issue for veterans is unemployment. In 2019, the unemployment rate for veterans was 5.3%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is greater than the 3.7% national unemployment rate. In addition, veterans may have difficulty finding employment due to a lack of experience or skills transferable to civilian jobs. Another barrier to employment for veterans is mental health issues, such as PTSD, which can make it difficult to hold a job.

Homelessness is also a significant problem facing veterans. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, veterans make up 7% of the homeless population in the United States. VA hospitals offer homeless veterans shelters and services, but many veterans are unaware of these resources or cannot access them.

The problems facing veterans are numerous and complex. However, some organizations and government programs are working to help veterans overcome these challenges. For example, veterans can get health care, benefits, and other services through the Department of Veterans Affairs. The Veterans Health Administration is the nation’s largest integrated healthcare system, caring for almost 9 million veterans annually. In addition, veterans can get financial and other help through the Veterans Benefits Administration. These programs are critical in assisting veterans in readjusting to civilian life and coping with the challenges they experience.

What Do Soldiers Suffer from After War?

After experiencing severe trauma or a life-threatening event, some people develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). After a terrible experience, it is normal for your mind and body to go into shock, but this natural response becomes PTSD when your nervous system becomes “stuck.” Some veterans suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can involve a variety of indicators. It’s hard living with untreated PTSD, and it can be easy to get discouraged by long wait times at the VA. Today is when you take your life back into your own hands and start feeling better, regardless of when you begin professional treatment. There are several things veterans can do on their own to start managing their PTSD symptoms. These self-care tips are not intended to replace professional treatment but may help you feel better daily.

Get regular exercise: Research shows that exercise can help reduce stress and improve your mood. A quick stroll, a run, or even some lawn chores will make you feel lighter and alleviate your PTSD symptoms.

Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet is important for everyone, but it’s especially crucial if you’re dealing with PTSD. Eating healthy foods can assist your body in coping with stress and enhance your mood. Consume various fruits and vegetables, healthy grains, and lean protein. 

Get adequate sleep: Getting enough rest is critical when dealing with PTSD. A good night’s rest can support your body in healing and coping with stress. The average adult requires seven to eight hours of sleep per night.

Connect with others: Investing time with friends and family might help you relieve stress and enhance your mood. Veterans groups can also be a great way to connect with other veterans who understand what you’re going through.

Find a therapist: A therapist can help you manage your PTSD symptoms and work through your trauma. If you do not already have a therapist, the Department of Veterans Affairs or the National Institute of Mental Health can help you find one. PTSD can be crippling, but treatments can help you manage your symptoms. 

If you are a veteran suffering from PTSD, don’t suffer in silence—seek assistance. These self-care tips can improve your day-to-day life, and professional treatment can help you heal the trauma that’s causing your PTSD.

Why Are Veterans so Traumatized?

In accordance with the Department of Veterans Affairs, around 11-20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). That means that out of the 2.7 million veterans who have deployed to those two countries since 2001, as many as 540,000 veterans are currently dealing with PTSD.

That number is likely even higher when you take into account veterans from other wars and conflicts. For example, one study found that Vietnam veterans are still dealing with symptoms of PTSD 40 years after the war ended.

So why are veterans so traumatized? There are several reasons.

For one, veterans have witnessed or participated in some pretty horrific events. If you’ve ever seen combat footage or read accounts from veterans, you know that war is brutal and harrowing. Veterans must deal with the mental and emotional aftermath of what they’ve seen and done for the rest of their lives.

Secondly, veterans often feel like they can’t seek help for their PTSD because of the stigma attached to mental health issues. In the military, there’s a culture of toughness and self-reliance, which can make veterans feel like they need to tough it out on their own. This can lead to veterans not seeking help for their PTSD, worsening the condition.

Finally, many veterans don’t get the treatment they need because of problems with the VA healthcare system. Long wait times, insufficient care, and bureaucratic red tape have all plagued the VA. As a result, many veterans do not receive the PTSD care they require. However, there are options available to assist veterans suffering from PTSD. For example, VA hospitals treat PTSD and other mental health concerns. There are also several veterans’ organizations that can provide support and assistance. 

What are Veterans Biggest Needs?

One of the biggest needs of veterans is access to quality mental health care. Veterans suffering from PTSD often need long-term treatment to recover. Sadly, due to a lack of money or insurance coverage, many veterans cannot access the treatment they require. In addition, many veterans are reluctant to seek help for their PTSD due to the stigma attached to mental illness.

Veterans must also have access to housing and job possibilities. Many veterans struggle to find steady work after leaving the military, and many are homeless. Veterans need access to resources to help them transition back into civilian life.

Finally, veterans need our support and appreciation. Veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and we should do everything we can to help them. We can show our support by volunteering at VA hospitals, donating to veteran charities, or simply expressing our gratitude. Thank you, veterans, for your service!

which can make veterans feel like they need to tough it out on their own. This can lead to veterans not seeking help for their PTSD, which can make the condition worse.

Finally, many veterans don’t get the treatment they need because of problems with the VA healthcare system. Long wait times, insufficient care, and bureaucratic red tape have all plagued the VA. As a result, many veterans do not receive the PTSD care they require. There are options available to assist veterans suffering from PTSD. VA hospitals provide treatment for PTSD and other mental health concerns. There are also several veterans’ organizations that can provide support and assistance. 

What are Veterans Biggest Needs?

One of the biggest needs of veterans is access to quality mental health care. Veterans suffering from PTSD often need long-term treatment to recover. Sadly, due to a lack of money or insurance coverage, many veterans do not have access to the treatment they require. In addition, many veterans are reluctant to seek help for their PTSD due to the stigma attached to mental illness.

Veterans must also have access to housing and job possibilities. Many veterans struggle to find steady work after they leave the military, and a large number of veterans are homeless. Veterans need access to resources that can help them transition back into civilian life.

Finally, veterans need our support and appreciation. Veterans have made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and we should do everything in our power to help them. We can show our support by volunteering at VA hospitals, donating to veteran charities, or simply expressing our gratitude. Thank you veterans for your service!