Serving in the military and effectively defending the country may be the thing that gives one the most satisfaction. When our troops return home from deployment, they are entitled to our thanks and admiration for all they have given up and suffered through for the benefit of our future.
These brave service people are acclaimed as heroes, but when they return home from deployment and are later discharged or retired, they are regrettably still suffering from the trauma of war. These soldiers had actually through a great deal of hardship during their time in the army, including being away from their loved ones for months, seeing their comrades die in combat, and receiving serious injuries.
Immediately after returning home, it’s not unusual for our former servicemen to feel loss, dread, paranoia, and even guilt. They must also reintegrate into their community on their own, with little to no assistance. Their predicament is only made worse by this. This is the main cause of the mental health issues that many of them experience, especially anxiety and depression.
Nine Statistical Facts About The Depression In Veterans
You’ll find shocking statistical information about the two mood illnesses that affect our vets below.
1. It was shown that one in five service members returning from Afghanistan or Iraq had significant depressive disorder symptoms.
2. There have been reports of stress, anxiety, and/or depression among at least 20% of the veterans who served in Afghanistan or Iraq.
3. The VA finds a 327% rise in reported anxiety disorders among service personnel between 2000 and 2012.
4. In contrast to veterans who served in the Korean War and World War II, a 2014 study indicated that Vietnam veterans had twice the likelihood of experiencing heightened anxiety and despair.
5. Another 2014 study found that compared to non-veterans, veterans, particularly those who engaged in combat, are more susceptible to depression or anxiety.
6. Military kids with deployed parents have higher rates of anxiety and depression than kids with parents at home.
7. After serving, it is anticipated that 14% of military personnel will develop depression.
8. Only 50% of returning service members who seek mental health care will get help.
9. Although younger veterans with depression (18-34 years old) had the highest suicide rates in 2015, veterans 55 and over made up 58.1% of veteran suicide deaths.
Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1 if you are aware of veterans in your neighborhood who are exhibiting signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. You’ll get a prompt response from a skilled responder.