Did you know that since September 11, 2001, over 2.3 million men and women have served in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan? Our country has not only lost 6,308 service members, but many of our soldiers have returned with injuries, including those wounds that we can't see. “According to a RAND report released in April 2008, over 18 percent of troops who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan--nearly 300,000 troops--have symptoms of post-traumatic stress or major depression. At the same time, about 19 percent of service members reported that they experienced a possible traumatic brain injury. And let us not forget: millions of Americans belong to the families of these servicemen and servicewomen. Spouses, children, parents, siblings, and unmarried partners of military personnel are all being adversely affected by the stress and strain of the current military campaign. Unfortunately, the tremendous number of people affected makes it impossible for the military to respond adequately to the mental health needs in its greater community. For example, according to the RAND study, only 43 percent of troops reported ever being evaluated by a physician for their head injuries. Moreover, returning combat veterans suffering from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are not routinely seeking the mental health treatment they need. RAND also reports that only 53 percent of service members with PTSD or depression sought help over the past year.” (Direct Quote from Give an Hour) There are many reasons why returning troops don’t seek treatment. One reason is that some fear the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. Military personnel may be concerned that seeking mental health support will affect their career, or their social standing. Some are also worried about exposing their vulnerabilities to mental health providers who may be in the military themselves. Yet another reason is that some returning troops would rather do therapy via the phone instead of coming into a traditional therapist’s office. Luckily, there are more and more services in the community that are available for troops should they need an alternative to traditional treatment offered by the military. These services are also available for family members of the troops who are not entitled to receive mental health benefits through the military. One such program is the Give an Hour nonprofit. This program connects mental health professionals to military personnel and their families. It is an opportunity for mental health professionals to give back to the community, (i.e. FREE therapy to military personnel and their families). If you know of someone who is in need of therapy and fits these criteria, send them to the Give an Hour website.
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