Editor’s Note: September is National Suicide Prevention and Recovery Month and therefore we will be covering a critical and often overlooked issue: the alarming rate of suicides in rural Oklahoma. In this four-part series, we will delve into the unique challenges faced by our communities, where isolation, limited resources, and stigma can create formidable barriers to mental health support. Our goal is to spark conversation, inspire action, and offer hope to those in need. This is part two.

NATALIE GABBARD SPECIAL TO THE REGISTER

As we honor our brave men and women this Veterans Day, remember our military heroes who are silently battling mental health issues. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an estimated 17 veterans die by suicide each day. This staggering statistic highlights a critical issue that demands our immediate attention.

My sister, Deanna Hilburn, an Army veteran and combat medic, believes the real number is closer to 22, as the official figures might be outdated. Regardless of the exact number, the fact remains that these veterans, who have risked everything for our safety, deserve better support and care from us.

As a mental health professional, I stress that we must enhance our efforts to address these challenges and provide the necessary support for our veterans. It’s time to step up and ensure that we are doing everything possible to help those who have given so much for our country.

On Veterans Day this November, as we reflect and remember we need to “fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors,” as the VA suggests on its website.

To care for those who have served in our military, we must recognize that our current efforts are only a small part of addressing a much more complex issue. The challenges our veterans face extend beyond mental health; they encompass societal reintegration and the long-lasting effects of combat and other traumatic experiences.

Many veterans join the military carrying pre-existing trauma or personal challenges, which can be exacerbated by the demands of military life. Despite their bravery and commitment, the system often fails to adequately support their mental health needs during their service.

Furthermore, many enter the military as young individuals, often still developing both emotionally and cognitively and some may not have been aware of their mental health issues when they first enlisted. This developmental immaturity can impact their decision-making and ability to manage stress, highlighting the need for better mental health support both during and after their service.

Veterans cope with stress, anxiety, and trauma while serving in a variety of ways and their mental health has evolved since their discharge. Many face significant challenges accessing mental health support after leaving the military, often due to fears of judgment, potential repercussions or lack of available resources.

Veterans face greater risk Recent statistics reveal a disturbing rise in suicide rates among veterans, underscoring an urgent need for more robust mental health support and intervention. Veterans are now significantly more likely to die by suicide compared to the general population, emphasizing the critical need for enhanced care and preventive measures.

The latest report from the VA indicates that the suicide rate among veterans is approximately 50 percent higher than that of civilians. In 2023, veterans experienced a suicide rate of 38.4 per 100,000, starkly higher than the 25.1 per 100,000 rate seen among non-veteran adults. This disparity is particularly severe among younger veterans and those who have recently transitioned out of the military.

The data reveals that veterans aged 18-34 face the highest suicide rates, with figures showing their rate is over 70% higher than that of their civilian peers. This troubling trend highlights the pressing need for targeted prevention strategies specifically designed for this vulnerable age group.

The goal of this article is to raise awareness so that veterans do not have to question whether they might have managed their mental health differently if given the opportunity, and to shed light on their perceptions towards mental health issues within our military.

Stigma reduction is paramount Conversations with veterans, including my sister, reveal that while there has been progress, particularly in addressing issues like sexual assault, significant stigma and gaps in support remain.

In recent years, there has been a greater awareness of mental health issues, and a slight reduction in stigma. However, comprehensive mental health services for veterans, especially those in rural areas with limited resources, remain crucial. Advocacy for policy changes and increased funding is essential to meet the needs of those who have sacrificed so much for our country. Raising public awareness about these challenges is vital to ensuring our veterans receive the support they deserve.

The military’s mental health resources webpage highlights a range of issues, including traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and the psychological impacts of military sexual trauma (MST). It is particularly concerning that MST is prominently featured on the page, which suggests sexual trauma is a prevalent and serious issue affecting many service members.

This focus raises significant concerns. Service members, whether male or female, face not only the stresses of separation from loved ones and the demands of deployment but also the distressing possibility of encountering sexual trauma. The inclusion of MST at the forefront of mental health services on the veterans’ affairs page underscores a critical problem that needs urgent attention.

Our veterans have given so much for our country and it is our duty to provide comprehensive support that addresses all aspects of their well-being. We must do more to ensure that we are fully meeting their needs, including those that stem from the darker aspects of military service.

I recently spoke with several veterans to gain insight into their experiences transitioning from military service to civilian life. Many veterans return home with invisible wounds, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety. The shift from military to civilian life can be disorienting and challenging, often leaving individuals feeling isolated and without adequate support. Their perspectives highlight the need for better resources and understanding to help ease this difficult reintegration process.

A Corpsman’s experience

One veteran, Navy Corpsman Cody Gonzales states, “There was no time to mope and cry. You had to learn to suck it up real quick and put on your tough skin because this ride isn’t for everyone.”

Gonzales reflects that during her time in the military, mental health challenges didn’t seem like a significant issue at the time. She added, “Feelings had to be put to the side because the mission comes first. Being a Corpsman in the Navy, your emotions can get the best of you because your job is to take care of the sick and wounded but you have to think realistically… You’re risking your life for your brothers and sisters, but you must know you may not be able to save them all. You may have to do stuff you never imagined doing while on deployment.”

From a therapist’s perspective, this suggests that she may not have had the opportunity to process her experiences. Gonzales mentioned that even if she was aware of any mental health struggles, it wasn’t acceptable to speak out about them. She felt compelled to continue without expressing her difficulties, as maintaining a strong image was crucial in the military, where perception often outweighs reality.

Another veteran, Deana Hilburn, a combat medic in the Army, further validates and corroborates those feelings, “It was embarrassing to seek care as a leader.”

It’s crucial to engage in conversations about veteran mental health and become actively involved in community efforts. By researching online, visiting veterans’ websites, or participating in local initiatives, you can contribute to meaningful change and help reduce the stigma associated with these issues.

As a nation, we must reflect on our commitment to those who have served, honoring President Lincoln’s promise to care for our veterans. Addressing the mental health crisis facing veterans requires a proactive approach. Support from family, friends, and the community is essential in breaking down barriers and encouraging veterans to seek the help they need. Together, we can make a significant impact and ensure that our veterans receive the care and support they deserve.

For immediate assistance, veterans and their families can call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 or text 838255.