These are sad statistics that we can do something about.
As we age, topics of conversation often include our aches and pains and what medications we take to help us. Discussions about which statins work best for our cholesterol, what we’re taking to lower our blood pressure, perhaps a sprinkle of diabetes, aspirin regimen, and the side effects of the wellness cocktails we consume every day.
What we probably won’t talk about is our mental health. You won’t hear how well someone’s Prozac is working, how their therapy is going, or the crippling anxiety that prevents them from attending family functions without medication. It’s still a taboo subject. But wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could all be open and honest about our mental health, especially with family?
We desperately need to break this stigma. You’d think we’d have a paradigm shift on the subject by now, as 2020 marked the 20th consecutive year with over six thousand veteran suicides. Even faced with 17 veteran suicides a day, society still can’t seem to accept the fact that “mental health” is health. It’s no different than hypertension or cholesterol.
Veterans resist seeking mental health care for many reasons, but common themes are that it’s a perceived weakness and it may affect employment opportunities — especially if there’s a requirement for a security clearance. Although this fear is usually unfounded, it exists, it’s real. Employers should be mindful of how their hiring processes may deter someone from getting treatment.
More: Norris Burkes: Don’t just thank a veteran today, thank their spouse | On Spirituality
More: One Senior Place: Military veterans can find helpful resources throughout Central Florida
Breaking the stigma surrounding veterans’ mental health requires a collective effort from society, communities, and individuals. We all play a pivotal role in dispelling myths and fostering understanding about mental health issues. By promoting open conversations, we can create an environment where veterans feel comfortable sharing their experiences without fear of judgment.
Veterans’ mental health issues go beyond PTSD. Just like everyone else, veterans struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, and many other conditions and challenges. Addressing the stigma is vital in ensuring veterans feel safe and encouraged to seek the help they need.
We should also recognize and celebrate the resilience of veterans who seek help. Sharing stories of recovery and emphasizing the strength it takes to confront mental health challenges can inspire others to take similar steps.
On this Veterans Day, dedicate the year to watching out for those who may be struggling. Make a lunch date and have a real conversation. Veteran or not.
And go outside to watch your hometown heroes in the Veterans Day parades. Support from the community is a vitally important morale booster.
Ken McDonald is the President of the Brevard County Democratic Veterans Caucus
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Ending stigma surrounding mental health with veterans is key
