Learn Issues Facing Our Veterans

Guardian Garage

Veteran Mental Health Advocacy

At Guardian Garage, we believe in supporting every member of our veteran community, particularly those facing the often unseen challenges of mental health disorders. Veterans are our brave heroes, who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation. But, as they carry the burden of battle, they also bring home invisible scars that can impact their mental wellbeing.

Mental Health Challenges Facing Veterans

Veterans often face a range of mental health problems due to the unique stresses of military life. Some common mental health issues that veterans may encounter include:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD can occur after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, such as combat, natural disaster, terrorist incident, or serious accident.

Depression

Veterans can experience feelings of extreme sadness, loss of interest in activities they previously enjoyed, or feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

Anxiety Disorders

Veterans may experience generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or specific phobias, often due to the stressors and trauma encountered during their service.

Substance Abuse Disorders

Some veterans may turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism for dealing with the mental health issues they are facing.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI is a significant health issue which can lead to a variety of mental health problems.

Mental Health Statistics For Veterans

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs:

About 20 out of every 100 Veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) or Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) suffer from PTSD in a given year.
Approximately 15 out of every 100 Vietnam Veterans were currently diagnosed with PTSD when the most recent study of them (the National Vietnam Veteran Readjustment Study) was conducted in the late 1980s.
It's estimated that about 30 out of every 100 (or 30%) of Vietnam Veterans have had PTSD in their lifetime.
14% of all veterans have considered suicide at least once in their lifetime.

Educational Resources

We believe in the power of education and raising awareness about the mental health struggles that our veterans face. Here are some resources where you can learn more and find ways to help:

National Center for PTSD

The National Center for PTSD is dedicated to research and education on trauma and PTSD.

Veterans Crisis Line

The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, anonymous, confidential resource accessible to any veteran, even if they're not registered with the VA or enrolled in VA healthcare.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

SAMHSA offers a variety of resources for people struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues.

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

NAMI's Veterans & Military Resource Center offers a wealth of resources, from dealing with trauma to finding a community of other veterans and service members.

At Guardian Garage, we stand by our veterans, and we commit to aiding them on their journey to mental wellness. Let’s join together to break the stigma, encourage open conversation, and ensure that no veteran faces these challenges alone.