Reducing the Veteran Suicide Rate

Security Clearance Careers Podcast

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and mental health are critical issues that affect many veterans and the veteran suicide rate. The experiences and environments faced during military service can lead to enduring psychological impacts that require attention and care.

Greg VanDyne is a former Special Forces Medical Sergeant (18D) who served with 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). He co-founded the Vetrepreneur Collective which is a community that takes the skills the military diligently taught veterans and gives a step-by-step guide to start your own company through Mentorship, coaching, guidance, and advice all through a like minded veteran community. Greg believes “the military should be throwing the kitchen sink at reducing soldier suicide”, making Suicide Safety Plans an annual requirement for the military retirement and transition process.

He joins the Security Clearance Careers Podcast to discuss his own transition and why destigmatizing mental health is so important to him.

PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. For veterans, these events may include combat, military sexual trauma, or other life-threatening situations. Symptoms of PTSD can include:

• Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, distressing memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event.
• Avoidance: Steering clear of places, activities, or people that remind them of the trauma.
• Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, or difficulty maintaining close relationships.
• Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Being easily startled, having trouble sleeping, or experiencing irritability and anger.

Addressing mental health is vital for veterans to lead fulfilling lives post-service. Mental health care can involve:

• Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are effective treatments for PTSD.
• Medication: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms.
• Support Groups: Connecting with peers who have similar experiences can provide emotional support and a sense of community.
• Self-Care: Engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation can improve overall well-being.

Veterans may face unique challenges in seeking mental health care:

• Stigma: There can be a stigma associated with seeking help, which may prevent veterans from accessing necessary services.
• Access to Care: Navigating the VA healthcare system or finding mental health professionals who understand military culture can be difficult.
• Transition to Civilian Life: Adjusting to civilian life can be stressful and may exacerbate mental health issues.

Supporting veterans in their mental health journey involves:

• Awareness and Education: Promoting understanding of PTSD and mental health issues among the public and within the veteran community.
• Access to Resources: Ensuring veterans have information on and access to mental health services, both through the VA and private providers.
• Community Support: Encouraging community programs and initiatives that support veterans and their families.

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