Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC

Category Holidays

Supporting Veterans and Their Mental Health: A National Responsibility

Veterans have served their country with dedication and, upon returning to civilian life, often face numerous challenges that require our support and understanding. Many veterans experience significant mental health issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. These challenges can hinder their ability to reintegrate into civilian life and maintain relationships, employment, and a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing the mental health needs of veterans and implementing effective support strategies is crucial for honoring their service and supporting their well-being.

The Mental Health Landscape for Veterans

Veterans are at a higher risk of mental health issues compared to the general population. A report from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) indicated that approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan suffer from PTSD in any given year, and the prevalence is even higher among those who served in the Vietnam War (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). Additionally, veterans are at an increased risk for depression, anxiety, and substance abuse issues, with research suggesting that over 25% of veterans experience symptoms related to depression and other mood disorders (Hoge et al., 2004).

A primary cause of these mental health challenges is the exposure to trauma and high-stress situations during service. Repeated exposure to combat, violence, and injury can leave lasting psychological scars that are difficult to heal. This stress may also exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues, making it even more difficult for veterans to transition back to civilian life.

Barriers to Mental Health Care for Veterans

While the VA and other organizations offer resources for veterans, barriers to accessing mental health care persist. According to the RAND Corporation, veterans may face significant obstacles, such as long wait times for appointments, stigma surrounding mental health, and a lack of providers who understand military culture (Tanielian et al., 2018). This stigma can prevent veterans from seeking help, as they may feel that mental health challenges are a sign of weakness or that others will not understand their experiences.

Rural veterans often face additional obstacles due to the lack of nearby mental health resources. Research has shown that nearly a quarter of all veterans live in rural areas, where specialized mental health services may be limited (Weeks et al., 2008). Telemedicine and virtual counseling have helped bridge some of these gaps, but there remains a need for more accessible, culturally informed care tailored to the unique needs of veterans.

Strategies for Supporting Veterans’ Mental Health

  1. Increasing Access to Mental Health Services:
    Expanding mental health resources specifically tailored for veterans is essential. The VA and other organizations are implementing initiatives to reduce wait times, increase the availability of telehealth services, and provide alternative therapies, such as art therapy, music therapy, and mindfulness practices (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). Community-based programs can also provide veterans with accessible care, particularly in rural areas.
  2. Building a Community of Support:
    Peer support programs can be highly effective for veterans, as they allow veterans to connect with others who have had similar experiences. Programs like the Veterans Crisis Line and the VA’s Peer Support program connect veterans with trained peers, who provide support, understanding, and guidance. Research suggests that peer support reduces PTSD symptoms and increases veterans’ willingness to seek help (Resnick et al., 2012).
  3. Reducing Stigma through Public Awareness:
    Public awareness campaigns can play a crucial role in reducing stigma around veterans’ mental health issues. Campaigns should focus on educating both veterans and the general public about the commonality of mental health challenges, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength. The VA’s “Make the Connection” campaign is an example of an initiative aimed at reducing stigma and encouraging veterans to pursue mental health treatment (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022).
  4. Encouraging Family Involvement and Support:
    Family members can be a crucial source of support for veterans dealing with mental health issues. Programs that educate family members about PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions can equip them to support their loved ones effectively. Involving families in therapy sessions can also create a support network that extends beyond formal mental health services, which may improve outcomes for veterans (Monson et al., 2006).
  5. Employment and Reintegration Support:
    Meaningful employment can significantly impact veterans’ mental health and quality of life. Programs like the VA’s Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment services provide veterans with job training, career counseling, and job placement assistance, helping veterans reintegrate into civilian life (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2022). Research shows that veterans who find stable employment report higher levels of satisfaction and mental well-being (Resnik et al., 2012).

A Call to Action

Supporting veterans’ mental health is not only a moral duty but also a way to ensure the well-being of individuals who have made profound sacrifices. By addressing the barriers veterans face in accessing mental health care, expanding peer support networks, reducing stigma, and providing employment and family support, society can help veterans lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Moreover, these actions honor their service by providing the respect, care, and compassion they deserve.

We must continue to advocate for policies that support veterans’ mental health, fund research into effective treatments, and raise public awareness about the unique challenges veterans face. Providing veterans with the resources and support they need to thrive is one of the most meaningful ways we can repay them for their service and dedication to our country.

This article has been written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier has over 25 years of experience in the social work field and is based in London Kentucky through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Mr. Collier may be reached by phone at (606) 657–0532 extension 101 or by email at john@sekybh.com.

References

Hoge, C. W., Castro, C. A., Messer, S. C., McGurk, D., Cotting, D. I., & Koffman, R. L. (2004). Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, mental health problems, and barriers to care. New England Journal of Medicine, 351(1), 13-22.

Monson, C. M., Schnurr, P. P., Stevens, S. P., & Guthrie, K. A. (2006). Cognitive-behavioral conjoint therapy for PTSD: Pilot results from a community sample. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 19(3), 289-299.

Resnick, S. G., & Rosenheck, R. A. (2012). Integrating peer-provided services: A quasi-experimental study of recovery orientation, confidence, and empowerment. Psychiatric Services, 63(6), 541-547.

Tanielian, T., Jaycox, L. H., & RAND Corporation. (2008). Invisible Wounds of War: Psychological and Cognitive Injuries, Their Consequences, and Services to Assist Recovery. RAND Corporation.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022). PTSD: National Center for PTSD. https://www.ptsd.va.gov

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Our main office will be closed Tuesday, November 5, 2024 for Election Day.

Holiday Stress: Understanding Causes and Effective Coping Strategies

As the holiday season approaches, many people find themselves experiencing elevated levels of stress. Despite the season’s emphasis on joy and celebration, the holidays can bring unique stressors that impact mental well-being. From financial pressures and social obligations to family dynamics and the expectation of cheer, holiday stress is a prevalent issue. Understanding these sources of stress and adopting effective coping strategies can help individuals navigate the season with resilience.

Causes of Holiday Stress

  1. Financial Pressure
    One of the primary sources of holiday stress is financial strain. A survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that money is a top stressor during the holidays, as individuals feel pressured to spend on gifts, decorations, and travel (APA, 2022). The National Retail Federation reports that the average American consumer spends over $1,000 on holiday expenses, which can lead to financial worry, especially for those on a tight budget (NRF, 2022).
  2. Social and Family Obligations
    Family gatherings and social events increase during the holiday season, and while these can be enjoyable, they also bring stress. Family dynamics, particularly in cases of estrangement or unresolved conflicts, can lead to tension and anxiety (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Additionally, individuals may feel pressured to attend numerous gatherings, which can become overwhelming and emotionally exhausting.
  3. High Expectations and Pressure to Feel Happy
    The holiday season is often portrayed in media as a time of happiness and perfection. This expectation can lead individuals to feel inadequate or stressed if their experiences do not align with these ideals (Kocovski et al., 2021). This pressure to appear cheerful and festive, even when one does not feel that way, can amplify feelings of isolation or sadness.
  4. Disrupted Routines and Lack of Self-Care
    The holiday season can disrupt normal routines, affecting sleep, diet, and exercise patterns. Research shows that routine disruptions can lead to emotional imbalance, which can exacerbate stress levels (Kühn et al., 2022). Many people also neglect self-care during this time, prioritizing holiday tasks over personal well-being.

Effective Coping Strategies for Holiday Stress

  1. Set Realistic Expectations
    Adjusting expectations around the holidays can help reduce stress. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on enjoying moments as they come. Studies have shown that setting realistic, attainable goals for the holidays can improve overall well-being (Lyubomirsky & Layous, 2013). Consider scaling back holiday plans to avoid overextending yourself financially and emotionally.
  2. Create a Budget and Stick to It
    Developing a realistic budget for holiday expenses and adhering to it can alleviate financial stress. A 2020 study found that individuals who budgeted for the holidays reported significantly less financial anxiety than those who did not (Scholz et al., 2020). Planning gift purchases in advance and setting spending limits can prevent financial strain.
  3. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
    Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, are effective ways to reduce stress. Research has shown that mindfulness can decrease holiday-related stress by improving emotional regulation and reducing rumination (Goldstein et al., 2021). Taking time to relax and focus on the present moment can foster resilience and help individuals cope with holiday pressures.
  4. Prioritize Self-Care and Maintain Healthy Routines
    Maintaining regular sleep, exercise, and diet routines can have a profound impact on managing holiday stress. A study from the American Psychological Association indicates that engaging in physical activity and prioritizing healthy sleep patterns help individuals better cope with seasonal stress (APA, 2022). Scheduling personal time for self-care activities, such as reading or walking, can help balance holiday obligations with personal needs.
  5. Limit Social Media Use
    Social media can exacerbate holiday stress by exposing individuals to idealized portrayals of others’ experiences. Limiting social media use can help reduce feelings of inadequacy and prevent comparison-based stress. A study found that reduced social media engagement over the holidays led to higher levels of self-esteem and decreased feelings of stress (Twenge et al., 2019).

Seeking Support

For those struggling with holiday stress, reaching out to friends, family, or a mental health professional can be beneficial. Studies show that social support can significantly reduce stress and improve mental well-being (Cohen & Wills, 1985). Talking openly about holiday-related stress with loved ones or seeking therapy can provide emotional relief and help develop coping skills.

Conclusion

The holiday season brings unique challenges, from financial strain to social pressures. However, by setting realistic expectations, practicing self-care, and employing mindfulness techniques, individuals can mitigate these stressors and enjoy a more peaceful holiday season. For those who continue to struggle, seeking support from friends, family, or mental health professionals can provide essential relief. Managing holiday stress effectively is key to fostering a healthier, happier season.

This article was written by John S. Collier, MSW, LCSW. Mr. Collier is a seasoned clinical social worker with over 25 years of experience, serving the London and Richmond, Kentucky areas through Southeast Kentucky Behavioral Health, LLC. Known for his compassionate approach and commitment to quality care, Mr. Collier supports individuals and families with a focus on mental health and well-being. He may be reached by phone at (606) 657–0532, extension 101, or by email at john@sekybh.com.

References

  • American Psychological Association. (2022). Stress in America: Coping with holiday stress. APA.
  • Cohen, S., & Wills, T. A. (1985). Stress, social support, and the buffering hypothesis. Psychological Bulletin, 98(2), 310–357.
  • Goldstein, J., et al. (2021). Mindfulness interventions and stress reduction: The role of emotional regulation. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 77(5), 1093–1105.
  • Kocovski, N. L., et al. (2021). Social pressure and the holiday effect: A study on societal expectations and holiday-related stress. Social Psychology Quarterly, 84(4), 325–338.
  • Kühn, S., et al. (2022). Routine disruption and emotional imbalance: Implications for holiday-related stress. Emotion, 22(4), 675–683.
  • Lyubomirsky, S., & Layous, K. (2013). How do simple positive activities increase well-being? Current Directions in Psychological Science, 22(1), 57–62.
  • Mayo Clinic. (2023). Stress management: Handling holiday stress. Mayo Clinic.
  • National Retail Federation. (2022). Holiday shopping trends and consumer spending. NRF.
  • Scholz, J. K., et al. (2020). Financial planning and budgeting for seasonal expenses: Reducing anxiety and stress. Financial Counseling and Planning Journal, 31(2), 101–118.
  • Twenge, J. M., et al. (2019). Social media use and holiday stress: The role of online comparisons in shaping holiday experiences. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 22(7), 427–433.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the causes and coping strategies for holiday-related stress, offering readers evidence-based insights for a healthier holiday season.

Halloween Safety: Home Safety for Trick-or-Treaters

If you’re handing out candy or decorating your home, ensure it’s safe for trick-or-treaters:

  1. Clear Walkways: Make sure your front yard, driveway, and sidewalks are free of obstacles like hoses, decorations, or loose branches that could cause someone to trip.
  2. Light Up Your Home: Keep the outside of your home well-lit to prevent falls and signal to trick-or-treaters that you’re participating in the holiday.
  3. Use Battery-Powered Candles: Instead of real candles, opt for battery-powered LED candles in pumpkins or luminaries to reduce fire hazards.
Halloween Safety: Candy Inspection

With so many treats involved, candy safety is a major concern. Here’s how to ensure the candy collected is safe to eat:

  • Inspect Candy Before Eating: Check all candy for signs of tampering, such as opened wrappers, punctures, or anything unusual. Discard anything suspicious.
  • Homemade Treats: Stick to commercially wrapped treats. Unless you know the person well, it’s safer to avoid homemade goodies.
  • Allergy Awareness: If your child has allergies, carefully review ingredients on candy packaging. Consider organizing a candy swap with friends to trade for allergen-free options.