Mental Health Challenges for Veterans

Oct 15, 2024

Heads Up: Mental Health Challenges for Military Veterans and Active Duty Members

Introduction

  • Presenter: Audra Burns from Dartmouth Health
  • Series: "Heads Up" year-long mental health awareness journey
  • Focus: Mental health challenges faced by military veterans and active duty members
  • Objective: Change the conversation around mental health and end stigma

Statistics

  • Veteran Suicide: 17 veterans commit suicide each day in the U.S., potentially higher
  • Mental Health Issues: PTSD, re-entry challenges, substance misuse, depression

Panelists

  • Dr. Evan Bick: Clinical psychologist, Dartmouth Health, U.S. Army veteran
  • Patrick Jordan: COO, Dartmouth Health, U.S. Army veteran

Discussion Points

Unique Challenges for Military Members

  • PTSD: Exposure to extreme experiences during military service
  • Military Culture: Difficulty discussing and acknowledging mental health issues
  • Separation Challenges: Impact on service members and families during deployment and re-entry

Stigma and Mental Health

  • Stigma within military organizations affects willingness to discuss mental health
  • Importance of breaking stigma for wider mental health acceptance

Personal Experiences and Support

Patrick Jordan

  • Service in 82nd Airborne Division, deployment to Panama and Gulf War
  • Limited mental health resources during service
  • Transitioning to civilian life was eased by healthcare employment
  • Benefited from ongoing psychiatric support

Transition Challenges

  • Active Duty vs. National Guard: Differences in support on returning home
  • Return to Civilian Life: Immediate transition for National Guard is challenging

Signs of Mental Health Concerns

  • Emotional Changes: Increased frustration, irritability, anger
  • Sleep Changes: Altered sleep patterns
  • Mood Changes: Feeling down, social withdrawal
  • Substance Use: Increased alcohol/drug use

Resources and Support

  • Massachusetts General Hospital: Home Base Program for veterans
  • Dartmouth Hitchcock: EAP programs, military employee resource group
  • Support for Veterans: Celebrations, Wall of Honor, recruitment efforts

Key Takeaways

  • Asking for Help: Importance of seeking mental health support
  • Mental Fitness: Acknowledging mental health as part of overall health
  • Strengths of Veterans: Skills and experiences they bring to civilian roles

Conclusion

  • Veterans have a lot to offer both in healthcare and other civilian roles
  • Resources and job postings available within Dartmouth Health System

Additional Resources

  • Links to past "Heads Up" segments and support resources available below the video.