Promoting Awareness of Military Mental Health and Encouraging Help-Seeking Behaviors
When people talk about the military, the focus is often on the physical aspects of serving, such as the rigorous training or the demanding physical requirements.
Rarely do people talk about or consider the mental health challenges that many military service members and veterans face.
And people looking to help spread and promote awareness of military mental health often have trouble reaching the right people. Consider using Google Ads to advocate for regular check-ins on military mental health and encourage help-seeking behaviors. Click this link to learn more about how you can use Google Ads to promote mental health awareness.
Unfortunately, the stigma surrounding military mental health can make it even more challenging and sometimes impossible for service members to seek help when needed.
Sadder still is that family members and loved ones may not always know how to best support those struggling with mental health issues.
Luckily, we can change that! Here are some tips that military service members and veterans can use to better understand and cope with military mental health problems and suggestions you can use as a loved one to support and encourage help-seeking behaviors.
Tips to Better Understand and Cope with Military Mental Health Issues
Know the Signs
Not all wounds are visible.
According to a study, the extent of combat-induced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression among veterans can be around 14% and 21%, respectively.
However, these numbers may be higher because many military personnel are reluctant to ask for help.
The first step to understanding mental health challenges is to recognize the signs. Common signs include changes in sleep patterns, feelings of hopelessness, changes in appetite, and thoughts of self-harm.
Seek Help
Did you know that roughly 60% of military personnel who experience mental health issues don’t seek help?
The primary reason: stigma. However, seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness but strength. Many military members and veterans can significantly benefit from professional treatment - they just don’t ask.
If you’re struggling with mental health difficulties, don’t hesitate to contact a mental health professional or support group. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers various resources, including counseling and therapy services.
Practice Self-Care
It's not uncommon for people to view self-care as a selfish act, especially in the military, where selflessness is highly valued.
However, prioritizing self-care is a selfless act that can be significant in helping you reduce stress levels, boost your energy, and improve your overall mental well-being.
There are many forms of self-care. But the jist is that it doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Small acts like getting enough sleep, taking a break to do a relaxing activity, or eating what you like can significantly impact your mental health.
It’s also important to remember that taking care of yourself isn’t only for your benefit but for others around you too.
When prioritizing your mental well-being, you become a better partner, parent, friend, and service member.
When you’re in a good place mentally, you can support and care for others - maybe a colleague suffering from mental health issues too.
Tips to Support and Encourage Help-Seeking Behaviors in Military Service Members
Fight the Stigma
The negative attitude and beliefs surrounding mental health in the military can prevent service members from seeking help.
While there are several reasons for this, the primary is fear of negative consequences on one's military career and concerns about being perceived as a burden on colleagues.
As a family member or loved one, you must recognize the existence of the stigma and work to combat it.
One way to accomplish this is by creating a supportive and understanding environment where mental health issues aren’t something to be ashamed of.
Educate Yourself
It can be challenging to navigate the intricate landscape of mental health issues. However, one of the most reliable ways to support a loved one is to familiarize yourself with military members' unique mental challenges.
Fortunately, there is an abundance of materials available that you can use, such as resources on mental health issues like PTSD and traumatic brain injury (TBI), the symptoms and effects, and available treatment options.
You also have access to various support services, such as the VA’s Caregiver Support Progam, which assists family members in caring for veterans with mental health conditions.
Be There
According to a study, social support plays a significant role in treating PTSD.
One of the most crucial ways to show support and encourage a loved one is to let them know you are by their side for every step.
It can be difficult for individuals in the military community to acknowledge and address mental health issues, and having the support of loved ones can make a significant difference.
By providing emotional support and encouragement, you can help your loved one seek help and achieve better outcomes in their treatment.
However, it’s also critical to be patient. Not all military service members and veterans are open to seeking help for their mental health challenges.
If your loved one hesitates or resists seeking help, you must approach the situation with empathy and understanding.
References
● Veteran and Military Mental Health Issues: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572092/
● Warning Signs of Mental Illness: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/warning-signs-of-mental-illness
● Stigma as a barrier to seeking health care among military personnel with mental health problems: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25595168/
● VA mental health services: https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-health/
● Caring for Your Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/caring-for-your-mental-health
● Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi
● The Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers: https://www.va.gov/family-member-benefits/comprehensive-assistance-for-family-caregivers/
● Relations between Social Support, PTSD Symptoms, and Substance Use in Veterans: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5507582/