Helping Heroes Heal: A call to support veterans’ mental health

CHARLOTTE — Across the U.S., 20 veterans die by suicide every day. HopeWay, a nonprofit mental health treatment center located in Charlotte, is helping raise awareness about the importance of quality mental health treatment for military veterans, and how to support a veteran who may be struggling with their mental health, in honor of Veterans Day (Nov. 11).

Studies show that nearly one in four active service members show signs of a mental health condition, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. According to research, 7% of veterans will have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder compared to 6% of adult civilians.

“At HopeWay, our goal is to reduce the rate of suicide for our nation’s heroes and provide them with the support and treatment they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives,” said Justin Johnson, MD, DFAPA, a board-certified psychiatrist and director of Veteran Services at HopeWay. “As we commemorate this Veterans Day, we are deeply grateful to our military for their bravery, sacrifice and service, and also use this as an opportunity to raise awareness about the devastating and often-invisible wounds suffered by our veterans.”

The following are signs and symptoms of PTSD:

• Experiencing nightmares or vivid memories of the traumatic event
• Dealing with sleep problems
• Losing interest in things that used to bring joy
• Having difficulty concentrating
• Being on edge or jumpy, or like you have to be on guard
• Feeling irritated or angry

The following are ways to help a Veteran struggling with PTSD or other related mental health issues:

• Take time to ask the person how they are doing

  • Use “I” statements when expressing concern. For example, “I am worried about you, or I have noticed you socializing less.”
  • Use active listening when talking to the person

    • Make eye contact
    • Use supportive facial expressions
    • Give your full attention; do not multitask
    • Listen to understand rather than to respond
    • Provide support and encourage the individual to access professional help
    • Let the Veteran know there are resources available

    Dr. Johnson adds, “It is vital that Veterans and their family members know the signs and symptoms of PTSD and related mental health issues, the importance of receiving effective treatment, and that they are not alone. We can all play a part in providing support and solutions.”

    If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to HopeWay, a premier resource for civilians and veterans in the Charlotte community and across the nation: www.hopeway.org or 1-844-HOPEWAY

    Other available resources:

    • Military and Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, press 1
    • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
    • Psychological Health Resource Center: 1-866-966-1020
    • Military One Source: 800-342-9647