Calhoun County, AL Calhoun County, ALMemorial Day gives each American to pay tribute to those who passed away during their service in the military. It also serves to remind us that many veterans have lost their lives due to drug abuse, mental health problems, and suicide.
Numerous veterans suffer from problems with substance abuse and mental health problems. In Alabama the state, there are more than 350,000 veterans. Substance abuse disorders in the veterans population have been linked to homelessness as well as suicide.
In Alabama there was a high rate of suicide, with nearly 18% of the people who committed suicide were veterans according to the state’s Department of Veterans Affairs.
“For veterans, life in the military is a unique risks and potential triggers for substance abuse and mental health problems,” said Michael Leach of Addicted.org. “It’s crucial that veterans receive the support and assistance they require.”
Understanding the causes of these issues can help ensure that the family and friends are able to assist a loved one with a history of service receive the assistance and support they require. The risk factors be:
- Stress or trauma from previous deployments, service, or even combat.
- Reintegrating in civilian life.
- Mental health problems resulting from the military, for example PTSD and brain injuries. They can also cause depression or anxiety.
- Chronic pain and injuries as a result from military duty.
Veterans who are struggling with addiction or mental health problems will require assistance in overcoming barriers to accessing the care they require. This could include costs and stigma, insufficient funding and available resources in rural areas.
There are numerous ways to help and contribute to the lives of veterans. It is the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs offers a range of assistance.
Alabama Veteran is a community-based peer-to-peer association that helps veterans, military personnel along with their loved ones.
On a national level, there’s nationally, the VA Facility locator and all the services offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs including the ones that aid homeless veterans. Important phone numbers include the Veterans Crisis Line–1-800-273-8255 and the Lifeline for Vets–1-888-777-4443.
While we pay tribute to those who lost their lives while serving our country on Memorial Day, we must be aware of the challenges that veterans face upon returning home. We must take action to ensure that help is readily available.
Veronica Raussin is a Community Outreach Coordinator at Addicted.org who is passionate about spreading awareness of the dangers and risks of alcohol and drug abuse.
