When it comes to mental health, it’s often the bravest and fiercest among us — our military servicemen and women — who are the most vulnerable and underserved. These workers sacrifice so much of their lives to protect and defend our nation, and where there is sacrifice, there is a price to pay. For this reason, the need for military mental health support has never been more critical.

Military Mental Health: The Most Common Issues

Military mental health is especially susceptible because servicemen and women face unique challenges, experiences, and stressors ordinary citizens don’t face. Some we can’t even imagine.

Military mental health is especially susceptible because servicemen and women face unique challenges, experiences, and stressors ordinary citizens don’t face. Some we can’t even imagine.

What are some of the most common mental health issues among military personnel?

  • Military Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – Exposure to combat, violence, or traumatic events can lead to PTSD. Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event.
  • Depression – The isolation and trauma that often comes with military life can contribute to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and even hopelessness.
  • Anxiety – Generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder can develop due to the stress of deployment, constant relocation, and high-pressure situations.
  • Substance Disorders – Some military members turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with stress, trauma, or mental health symptoms. Branches of the military like the Marine Corps and the Army show disproportionately greater risk of substance abuse and mental health challenges according to a Rand study shared by MilitaryTimes.com. Substance abuse can exacerbate existing mental health issues and lead to additional problems.
  • Sexual Trauma –  Military sexual trauma (MST) is the experience of sexual harassment or assault at any point during served time in the forces.
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – Exposure to trauma and injuries during combat can result in TBIs, which may lead to cognitive difficulties, mood changes, and other mental health issues.
  • Adjustment Issues – Transitioning from military and civilian life can be especially challenging without strong coping skills, leading to emotional instability and impaired social or occupational functioning.

There are other extenuating factors that contribute to mental health issues among military personnel. For example, the fear of being perceived as weak or unfit for duty creates a significant stigma for our servicemen and women, often preventing them from seeking the military mental health support they need. Other factors include:

  • Combat Exposure – Direct combat experience is a significant risk factor for developing military PTSD and other mental health conditions.
  • Multiple Deployments – Repeated deployments to combat zones increase the likelihood of exposure to trauma and stressors.
  • Separation From Family – Lengthy deployments can strain relationships and contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Inadequate Support Services – Limited access to mental healthcare, long wait times for appointments, and insufficient resources can hinder service members from receiving timely and effective treatment.

But by far, the most troubling mental health crisis of all is the US military suicide rate.

Military Suicide Crisis

It’s staggering to look at what’s really killing our servicemen and women. It’s not combat. It’s suicide. Since 9/11, more than 30,000 active-duty personnel and war veterans have taken their own lives. According to research conducted by the Watson Institute, military suicide rates are four times higher than the deaths that have occurred in post-9/11 war operations. Other devastating findings from Rand research show that veteran suicide rates are two to three times higher than nonveterans.

Since 9/11, more than 30,000 active-duty personnel and war veterans have taken their own lives. Military suicide rates are four times higher than the deaths that have occurred in post-9/11 war operations.

And on top of those mind-numbing stats, when mental health issues are involved, the risk of suicide is even greater. The suicide rate of veterans with mental health diagnoses is double that of veterans without mental health diagnoses. And while the most recent data from Military.com shows that suicide rates have decreased slightly overall, active duty suicide rates are up.

So what are some of the mental health diagnoses that dramatically compound the risk of suicide among our servicepeople?

  • Military PTSD
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Schizophrenia
  • Substance Use Disorders
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

In addition, other risk factors that the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) found to increase suicidal ideation among military veterans include:

  • Childhood Trauma
  • Homelessness
  • Unemployment
  • Economic Uncertainty
  • Disability Status

Preventing Suicide: Recognizing the Warning Signs

After servicemen and women complete their military duty, they often struggle during reentry into civilian life. The emotional, financial, and relational challenges they face can feel overwhelming. Coming alongside them during this time and recognizing the warning signs of military suicide risk is crucial for preventing this tragic outcome.

If you or your military loved one exhibits any of the following symptoms as described by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), it is likely time to reach out for mental health support:

  • Appearing sad or depressed most of the time
  • Feeling as if there is no reason to live
  • Feeling unexplained guilt, shame, or sense of failure
  • Experiencing rage or anger
  • Engaging in risky activities without considering the risks
  • Increasingly smoking, drinking, or using drugs, including prescription medications
  • Losing interest in previously enjoyable activities and hobbies
  • Neglecting personal welfare, work, or school
  • Pulling away from family and friends

Getting the Support You Need

Addressing the mental health challenges our military members face today requires all of us to cast a wide net of support. Many organizations such as the VA, SAMHSA, Stars and Stripes, and the USO are working tirelessly to expand service member support systems to destigmatize and improve mental health services to all military personnel in need.

In 2018, the VA MISSION Act was implemented to ensure that veterans get the healthcare they need from outside providers if VA facilities are not able to supply it. This signifies tremendous progress, helping destigmatize seeking mental health treatment by giving veterans more options in which they can receive it.

Seeking mental health support is essential to building a healthy life, within and beyond your military service. At The Meadows Seasons, we specialize in helping military personnel and veterans get the mental health support you need. Regardless of your branch or rank, we can work with you to determine eligibility and benefits through TRICARE.

We go beneath the surface to get to the root of your issues and give you the tools you need to heal and love life again. Recovery is not only possible but waiting for you. Reach out today to find out how our The Meadows Seasons team can help you achieve it.