Mental Health in the Military
Mental Health in the Military:
Addressing the Crisis and Ensuring National Security
The mental health profession is seeing the growing crisis of mental health in the military firsthand. The brave men and women who serve our nation face unique challenges that can have lasting effects on their mental well-being. In this article, we will explore the current state of mental health within the military, the contributing factors, and present a plan for action to address this issue head-on. By investing in the mental health of our service members, we can improve the overall readiness and resilience of our military and safeguard our national security.
The Current Crisis
According to the Department of Defense (DoD) Annual Suicide Report, there were 498 confirmed suicides among active-duty service members in 2020. The rate of suicide in the military has been steadily increasing over the past decade, with the number of suicides in 2020 surpassing that of 2019 by 15%. The military suicide rate is now significantly higher than that of the general U.S. population, with 25.9 suicides per 100,000 service members compared to 18.2 per 100,000 in the civilian population. This alarming trend points to a growing mental health crisis within our military ranks.
Contributing Factors
Several factors contribute to the increased prevalence of mental health issues among military personnel:
1. Combat exposure: Service members who have been deployed to combat zones may experience traumatic events, resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. Research indicates that between 11% and 20% of veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF) have PTSD in a given year.
2. Operational stress: The high demands and expectations placed on military personnel can contribute to chronic stress, burnout, and mental health issues. Approximately 14-18% of deployed service members experience significant stress-related symptoms.
3. Transition challenges: The process of transitioning from military to civilian life can be difficult and lead to increased risk for mental health problems, substance abuse, and homelessness. Approximately 50% of veterans who need mental health services do not receive them.
A Plan for Action
To address the mental health crisis within the military, we propose the following multi-faceted approach:
1. Early intervention and prevention: Increase awareness and education on mental health issues among military personnel and their families, and promote early intervention and help-seeking behaviors. Programs such as the Real Warriors Campaign and the DoD's inTransition program are examples of initiatives that encourage service members to seek help when needed.
2. Expanded access to mental health care: Ensure that mental health services are readily available and accessible to all service members, regardless of their location or deployment status. Telehealth services and mobile applications can help bridge the gap for those in remote areas or unable to access traditional mental health care resources.
3. Tailored treatment: Develop and implement evidence-based treatments that are specifically designed for military personnel, taking into account the unique challenges they face. For instance, the Army's Strong Bonds program focuses on relationship skills and resilience building among service members and their families.
4. Support during transition: Strengthen support systems for veterans transitioning to civilian life, including access to mental health care, housing, and employment services. The VA's Make the Connection program connects veterans to resources and support, while the DoD's SkillBridge initiative helps service members gain valuable civilian work experience.
5. Research and evaluation: Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of mental health programs and initiatives, and conduct research to inform future policy and intervention development. The Military Suicide Research Consortium is a prime example of a collaborative effort to advance the understanding of military suicide and inform prevention strategies.
6. Encourage open dialogue: Foster a culture within the military that encourages open dialogue about mental health and reduces the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Leadership must set the tone for this culture shift by advocating for mental health awareness and expressing support for those who seek help. Programs like the DoD's "Leader's Guide to Managing Personnel with PTSD" can provide guidance for leadership on how to engage with service members dealing with mental health challenges.
7. Family support: Recognize the vital role families play in supporting service members and ensure they have access to resources and support services. Military OneSource, for example, offers confidential support services to military families, including mental health counseling and stress management resources.
8. Peer support: Utilize the power of peer support to help service members navigate mental health challenges. Peer-to-peer programs, such as the Veterans Crisis Line's Peer Support Chat and the DoD's Military OneSource Peer Support, connect service members with trained peers who have experienced similar challenges, offering a unique level of understanding and support.
9. Community partnerships: Establish partnerships with local communities and civilian organizations to increase access to mental health resources and promote a comprehensive support system for service members and their families. The VA's Community Provider Toolkit is an example of a resource that helps community providers better understand and address the mental health needs of veterans.
10. Policy reform: Advocate for policy reform to address systemic barriers to mental health care within the military, such as strict security clearance policies that may deter service members from seeking help due to fear of jeopardizing their careers. Reassessing these policies and implementing changes that prioritize mental health can help create a more supportive environment for service members in need of care.
As we continue to address the mental health crisis within the military, it is essential to prioritize collaboration and communication among all stakeholders, including service members, families, mental health professionals, and military leadership. The mental health of our service members is not just a personal matter but a matter of national importance. It is our collective responsibility to ensure they have access to the care and support they need to thrive both during and after their military service.
By implementing this comprehensive plan of action, we can address the mental health crisis within our military ranks and ensure the well-being of our service members. In doing so, we will not only be supporting the individuals who sacrifice so much for our nation but also strengthening our military as a whole and safeguarding our national security.
