Between hardships during military service and the process of readjusting to life as a civilian afterward, veterans experience a unique set of challenges that can impact their mental health. In fact, certain mental health conditions are more common among veterans – and it's understandable when you begin to consider the contributing factors.
Communicating these experiences and hardships with mental health is hard for most people, and especially veterans who might find it harder to relate to those who haven't been through military service.
If you're a veteran who wants to address their mental health with friends or family, here are some practical tips on how to do so:
Recognize and honor why this conversation matters
As veterans ourselves, we know how tough it can be to discuss these things – and that's all the more reason to recognize and honor why conversations about mental health are so important. Not only can this openness help others understand veterans and their hardships better, it can also build a bigger sense of trust and connection with your loved ones. With more empathy and understanding, we are all more empowered to help each other get to better places.
Note: Not a veteran, but love a veteran? Read our blog: 3 ways you can support the mental health of veterans.
Think about what you want to share and how
Prepare for your conversation by considering the following tips:
Think about what you want from the conversation. Do you simply want to be heard? To be understood better? Do you want to be treated differently, or communicated to in a different way? Consider your needs, now and moving forward. This will help you compose your thoughts ahead of time.
Plan a specific time to talk. By making space for the conversation ahead of time, you and your loved one can make sure that you both have the capacity to share and listen. Starting a deep conversation out of the blue can be more difficult and less effective.
Consider journaling specific thoughts ahead of time. We're big fans of journaling (it can even benefit your VA disability benefits claim!). To make sure you share everything that has been on your mind, jotting a few notes down prior to the conversation can help.
Know that it's a good thing to be open and vulnerable
Conversations about mental health are the most productive when both sides are open, honest, and vulnerable. It's not the easiest thing to do, but you can take pride in the strength it takes to do such.
If you just had a painful holiday season, remember that you are not alone. The holidays can trigger mental health conditions in veterans, making it difficult to get along with family and friends. If you're ready to break the cycle, this is a first step to doing it and moving forward.
If you would like to seek professional support and work with a veteran-specific therapist, we recommend Valor Psychology or Sharp Assessment Group.
Need help with medical documentation for a VA disability benefits claim?
That's what we're here for. We help veterans with proper documentation for their VA disability benefits claims. Whether you need a Nexus Letter, DBQ, chart review, or something else – we can help you get what you need to earn the benefits you deserve. Sign up for a chart review, and view other services here. Rather than trying to figure it out alone, work with one of our professional medical experts to get exactly what you need in less time.
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