Mental
Health
Understanding Veteran Mental Health:
Challenges, Awareness, and Support
Challenges, Awareness, and Support
Mental health challenges affect many veterans across the country. Greater awareness helps bring visibility to the scope of veteran mental health. Understanding what veterans face — and what support is available — reduces stigma and opens the door for healing.
Through innovation, individualized support and programs, and community partnerships, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) supports veterans in overcoming trauma, building strength and resilience, and finding a better tomorrow.
Common Veteran Mental Health Challenges
According to the most recent WWP Warrior Survey*, mental health conditions are among the top self-reported conditions tied to military service.
- 80% of WWP warriors report anxiety.
- 77% of WWP warriors report depression.
- 77% of WWP warriors report PTSD.
- More than 6 in 10 WWP warriors report having one or more mental health conditions.
Mental health challenges can lead to isolation and a poor quality of life. Early support and connection can improve outcomes for veterans and their loved ones.
Mental Health Resources for Veterans
Understanding Signs and Symptoms of Veteran Mental Health
Mental health symptoms look different for every veteran, but they can affect daily life and relationships. Common signs may include:
Changes in behavior
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Emotional changes
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Physical changes
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Frequently Asked Questions About Veteran Mental Health
What mental health challenges are most common among military veterans?
Veterans may experience a range of mental health conditions shaped by their service and transition to civilian life. These conditions affect how they think, feel, and connect to others.
According to the most recent Warrior Survey*, the most common mental health challenges reported by WWP warriors include PTSD, anxiety, and depression. In addition, more than 35% of WWP warriors self-reported experiencing a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of service. TBI can affect mental health.
The Warrior Survey also found that mental health conditions influence suicidal thoughts and substance use. More than a quarter of WWP warriors reported having suicidal thoughts in the past 12 months. As well, nearly half of the surveyed warriors screened positive for potential hazardous drinking or active alcohol use disorders.
Why are veterans at a higher risk for mental health challenges?
There are various reasons why veterans are at a higher risk for mental health challenges.
Research from the National Institutes of Health notes that veterans can be at a higher risk for mental health conditions due to the following:
● Exposure to trauma during service.
● Transition challenges, including loss of structure and community.
● Cultural barriers to seeking help.
● Difficulty finding a new purpose after transition.
According to the Warrior Survey, WWP warriors who showed a higher likelihood of symptoms for one or more mental health conditions reported the following:
● Loneliness.
● Military sexual trauma (MST).
● Financial strain (not having enough money to make ends meet).
● Obesity.
Why is it sometimes difficult for veterans to seek support or ask for help?
Military culture often emphasizes strength and self-reliance, which can make it harder to ask for help. Also, mental health challenges can emerge or evolve long after military service has ended, so it is important to be aware of signs and symptoms.
What is the Veterans Crisis Line?
The Veterans Crisis Line provides 24/7, confidential support for veterans and their loved ones. You do not have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to receive support. Dial 988, then press option 1. Or, text 838255.
How many veteran suicides happen per day?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Veterans Affairs (VA) report that about 17 veterans die by suicide each day.
What factors can improve mental health?
Many factors can affect mental health and overall quality of life. According to the WWP Warrior Survey, protective factors associated with a strong quality of life include:
● Good quality sleep.
● Employment or purpose.
● High post-traumatic growth.
Connection with others is also recognized as a valuable tool to help veterans manage stress, anxiety, and depression. More than 67% of warriors said that talking to another veteran is their top tool to manage stress or emotional challenges.