Mary Alice Reporting – May is mental health month and the Department of Veterans Affairs is highlighting support available for struggling veterans.
The US Department has launched the Today I Am campaign to encourage Veterans to take care of their mental health through available resources.
National Director of the VA/DOD Mental Health Collaboration Christopher Loftis explains that the initiative strives to bring awareness and education.
“Which focuses on living a fuller life through mental health treatment and support. We understand that, for some veterans, when they’re facing mental health challenges it can be difficult to see that life can be better and so, with the campaign, we’re featuring real stories from veterans of all different backgrounds.”
Ther biggest support system comes from their family and close friends.
“If you notice that someone is more quick to anger, more irritable, sleeping less well, having flashbacks, if they’re drinking more, or using drugs those are all reasons for family to reach out and encourage veterans in their life to seek help.”
The most common mental health diagnosis is PTSD but other stressors such as relationship issues, loss of a job, retirement, or other areas where one can face struggles.
For additional resources, visit www.maketheconnection.net.
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