Category: Mental Health Awareness
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Supporting Veterans: A Call for Limited, Yet Targeted, Government Intervention
In 2008, Public Law 110-387 was passed to address veterans’ mental health issues, especially for those returning from recent conflicts. This law provides targeted support without creating a bloated system, emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration. It includes Veteran Treatment Courts and pilot programs, balancing government intervention with personal responsibility and family support. Read more
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Supporting Male Veterans Through Military Sexual Trauma
A Path to Healing Have you ever wondered what it takes to heal after unimaginable trauma? What support is available for male veterans who survived military sexual trauma (MST)? Today, people are talking about mental health and trauma. But the stories of male MST survivors remain in the shadows. Understanding Military Sexual Trauma Military Sexual… Read more
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Stigma, Military Sexual Trauma, and Suicide in Male Service Members
The author, a retired Army veteran, underscores the lethal impact of stigma on male Military Sexual Trauma (MST) survivors, particularly the detrimental role of anticipated stigma from leaders which exacerbates suicide risk. Emphasizing the critical role of leadership in changing this toxic culture, the author advocates for empathy and support to mitigate suicide among MST… Read more
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How Self-Forgiveness Helps Veterans Heal Moral Injury and PTSD
The path to healing for veterans includes addressing invisible wounds like PTSD and moral injury, which encompass trauma, guilt, and shame. This post emphasizes the significance of self-forgiveness in breaking the cycle of pain and facilitating healing. Self-forgiveness involves acknowledging pain, taking responsibility, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support, ultimately allowing veterans to move forward and… Read more
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Managing Anger: Finding Balance Through Self-Reflection
The post discusses managing anger proactively to prevent it from escalating and negatively affecting relationships and mental health. It introduces the “Angry Stack” method, a journaling technique to address frustrations before they boil over. By understanding and dealing with underlying issues, one can achieve emotional balance and avoid destructive outbursts. Read more
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Why Military Members Avoid Mental Health Services
A veteran with 26 years of service, including 15 months in Iraq, discusses the severe psychological toll of combat, the military’s culture of stoicism, and the stigma of seeking mental health care. Despite fears affecting careers and mistrust of professionals, he emphasizes breaking the silence and changing military culture to support mental health. Read more
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How Churches Can Support Veterans with PTSD
PTSD lingers after combat, affecting veterans’ identities and faith, necessitating more than traditional mental health care. Churches, uniquely positioned to provide spiritual, emotional, and mental support, often lack resources and awareness. The author advocates for churches to educate themselves, establish health ministries, and collaborate with mental health professionals to create supportive environments for veterans, promoting… Read more
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Navigating the Complex Relationship Between PTSD, Aggression, and Healing for Veterans
Employers play a crucial role in supporting veterans with PTSD, a condition that deeply impacts their reintegration into civilian work life. By understanding PTSD, providing mental health resources, and fostering supportive environments, leaders can help veterans transition smoothly, retain their immense potential, and build stronger, more cohesive teams. Read more
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The Moral Injury of War: The Deep Impacts and Paths to Healing
The post reflects on the profound and often misunderstood issue of moral injury faced by military veterans. Unlike PTSD, moral injury stems from actions in war that clash with deeply held moral beliefs, leading to guilt, shame, and worthlessness. Healing requires a holistic approach involving mental health professionals, spiritual care, and community support to reconcile… Read more