Hidden cause of veterans’struggles drives renewed urgency in VA messaging

The campaign by the VA and the Ad Council provides life-saving resources for struggling veterans who are facing depression, PTSD and substance abuse challenges.It’s called “Don’t Wait.Reach Out.”(Robert Alexander/Getty Images)

An estimated 3.5 million veterans who are familiar with the campaign have taken action to seek help when they were struggling, according to the VA.

“No mission should be fought alone.Life has its challenges.You don’t have to solve them alone.That’s true whether it’s an everyday struggle, or something more complicated,” the campaign’s website notes.

For anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts: “Don’t Wait.Reach Out.” VisitVA.gov/REACHfor resources today.

Watch the newpublic service announcement here. 

MILITARY HEROES TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN LIFE WITH HELP OF UNIQUE ‘COFFEE MEETINGS’

U.S.Army veteran Aaron Knowles is involved in the campaign and said he’s honored to be involved in something so personal to veterans nationwide. 

“To speak to those who may not feel worthy of the title ‘veteran’ is such a meaningful chance to remind them they absolutely do belong, that growth and camaraderie are still theirs — and that new missions and opportunities are always within reach,� 

“To speak to those who may not feel worthy of the title ‘veteran’ is such a meaningful chance to remind them they absolutely do belong, that growth and camaraderie are still theirs, and that new missions and opportunities are always within reach,” said one U.S.Army veteran (not pictured). (James Carbone/Newsday RM via Getty Images)

�s still work to be done. 

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“We’re committed to keeping this message front and center year-round.While we know thatthe holidayscan be especially hard for many, the reality is that veterans can struggle at any time,” said Arthur.

She added that the “goal is always to encourage veterans to reach out if they’re struggling and to remind them that their experiences are valid, and that support is always within reach.”

Resources that addressfeelings of depression, isolation and PTSD are also shared.

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Veterans may be struggling if they are experiencing sleep or fatigue issues, facing financial difficulties, having trouble managing stress, feeling bothered by traumatic memories,using alcohol or drugsin unhealthy ways or struggling with personal relationships, according to the campaign.

The campaign notes that friends and family should “start the conversation” by sharing their own feelings — and reminding veterans that others care and are ready to listen.(iStock)

The campaign noted that friends and family should “start the conversation” by sharing their own feelings — and reminding veterans that they care and are ready to listen.

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Suggestions include such words as, “I might not be able to understand exactly what you’re going through or how you feel, but I care about you and want to help,” and “When you want to give up, or feel overwhelmed by emotion, take things in smaller chunks, like getting through the next minute, hour or day — whatever you can manage.” 

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TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ

The campaign advises friends and family not to argue, lecture, agree to confidentiality or blame themselves.

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For more information, anyone can explore details on“Don’t Wait.Reach Out.” 

Ashley J.