"When we think of Veterans Day, we often focus on the physical service for our country-the time, the family strain, the stress, the sacrifices. However, much of what veterans deal with occurs when they return home from duty and mental health and substance use issues surface. These are the scars that remain invisible, but ever present. According to the Boulder Crest Foundation, which treats veterans and educates about the topic of post-traumatic growth,"
"at least 30 percent of combat veterans and first responders are suffering in silence with a range of mental health challenges. Additional research indicates that the 14 percent of veterans who meet criteria for cannabis use disorder have three times the odds of self-injury. Post- traumatic stress disorder is one of the only mental health conditions for which medical marijuana is approved. The veteran suicide rate is alarming. In 2020, 6,146 veterans died by suicide, averaging about 16.8 veterans per day."
Many veterans experience persistent mental health and substance use problems after returning from service. At least 30 percent of combat veterans and first responders suffer a range of mental health challenges, and 14 percent meet criteria for cannabis use disorder with higher odds of self-injury. PTSD, traumatic brain injury, depression, and substance use disorders are more common among post-9/11 veterans. In 2020, 6,146 veterans died by suicide, averaging 16.8 per day. More than one in ten veterans have a substance use disorder and about 65 percent prefer alcohol. Effective support requires evidence-based treatments and veteran cultural competence, while communities should offer gratitude and avoid intrusive questioning.
Read at Psychology Today
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