I am an Army veteran. Because of this, I have been committed to working with other military veterans, as well as active duty soldiers. Service Connected Veterans can utilize their Community Care to obtain a referral to our office at no cost to the veteran. Services are provided additionally to couples and families. I know the demands that individuals have regarding the military communities and I understand that a variety of mental health, stress, and occupational problems are just to name a few that are experienced. Transitioning from military to civilian life is additionally at times a hard transition for individuals and families.
According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, between 15% and 30% of veterans experience Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health condition that is often triggered by a traumatic or terrifying event that one has experienced or witnessed. Signs that one is suffering from PTSD may not appear right away, it can take months or even years after a traumatic event for PTSD to manifest. Depending on the person, PTSD symptoms may surface at any moment.
Because of the stigma around mental health, it is often overlooked. Mental health is just as significant as one's overall physical health. Those struggling with issues such as PTSD may not realize that their mental illness should be given the same priority as their physical health. It is crucial that we bring awareness to the importance of one's mental health, and to help others understand that PTSD is a treatable illness, and not a sign of weakness, nor a reflection of an individual.