Veteran and Service Member Mental Health Concerns and How Clinical Care Can Help
Thrive • November 9, 2022
By Thrive Wellness Reno Therapist Samuel Hunt, LMFT and Thrive Wellness Reno Occupational Therapist Dr. Meadow Deason, OTD, OTR/L
Due to the extraordinary stressors they face, many veterans and service members suffer mental health concerns that can deteriorate the quality of their lives. Through clinical support, such as mental health therapy and occupational therapy, veterans and service members can find healing despite their unique challenges.
THE MOST PREVALENT MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS AMONG VETERANS
Veterans and service members experience psychiatric disorders at significantly higher rates than the general population. One study of army soldiers found that nearly 25% of them grapple with at least one mental health concern.
Some of the most common mental health conditions among veterans and service members include:
- Depression : Associated with feelings of deep lasting sadness, depression is one of the most widespread mental health disorders in the United States. One and three veterans report having symptoms of depression.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) : A distressing condition brought on by witnessing traumatic events , PTSD occurs in 11% to 20% of veterans.
- Suicide : Veterans are at 57% higher risk of suicide than non-veterans. Over 125 thousand veterans have died by suicide since 2001.
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) : Describing damage to the brain , TBIs occur in 9% to 28% of veterans. Brain injury can lead to acute physical, mental, and behavioral health concerns.
WHY VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS FACE INCREASED RISK FOR MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS
Reasons mental health concerns can be more prevalent in the military population include:
- Traumatic events: During their service, soldiers may be confronted with extreme violence, terrible injuries, and devastating losses that can contribute to mental health disorders.
- Difficulty returning from deployment or transitioning out of the military: Service members may undergo a loss of structure, community, and identity as they return home from a deployment. Veterans may have similar and even more severe feelings when they retire from the military. This sense of isolation can contribute to mental health struggles.
- Reluctancy to admit they’re struggling and hesitancy to seek support: Possibly due to the persevering, accountability culture of the military, veterans and service members often refrain from acknowledging their mental health concerns. Not wanting to burden others, they may avoid seeking necessary professional help.
- The tendency for mental health conditions to compound on each other: Mental health disorders often co-occur. Conditions that commonly manifest in veterans and service members can be closely linked and exacerbate one another.
HOW LOVED ONES CAN HELP VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS STRUGGLING WITH MENTAL OR BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Some ways loved ones can help veterans and service members with mental health issues include:
- Offer to listen: Encourage their openness by listening without necessarily providing them with advice. A non-judgmental, safe, and welcoming environment for them to honestly express themselves can be enough.
- Help them find care. Support them in seeking clinical support and offer to help them find a provider that’s a fit for them .
- Seek help for yourself: Attending a support group for loved ones of veterans and service members can help you obtain more knowledge about your circumstances, provide you with comfort, and allow you to feel less alone. Additionally, seeking mental health care for yourself may be beneficial for helping you cope with any distress and provide you with skills to better support your loved one.
HOW VETERANS CAN BENEFIT FROM MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH THERAPY
Although many veterans and service members contend with mental health concerns, they can manage and improve their mental and behavioral health with clinical support . During therapy , veterans and service members can process their experiences, learn ways to cope with any inner turmoil, and improve their overall well-being.
HOW VETERANS CAN BENEFIT FROM OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Occupational therapy can also provide veterans and service members with support for many types of conditions including those that are: neurological, orthopedic, medical, surgical, mental, and behavioral. By helping veterans and service members develop skills to overcome any limitations, occupational therapy can increase their quality of life and empower them to fully participate in meaningful daily activities.
Types of specialized occupational therapy support include:
- Assistive technology: Integrating certain types of technology that allow individuals to independently perform tasks.
- Cognitive rehabilitation: Rehabilitates and strengthens mental processes that may have been damaged from injury or illness.
- Ergonomics: Using modification and adaptations that enable individuals to effectively and safely interact with their environment.
- Falls prevention: Includes interventions such as strengthening muscles and improving balance.
- Hand therapy: Helps optimize the functionality of the arm, wrist, and hand.
- Health and wellness: Encourages individuals to implement strategies that promote their well-being.
- Home modification: Guides individuals in adapting living spaces to promote usage, safety, and independence.
- Low vision: Includes interventions such as teaching individuals visual techniques and training them to use low-vision equipment.
- Pain management : Includes interventions such as using safe body mechanics and proactive pain control.
- Productive aging : Guides individuals in engaging in meaningful activities as they age.
THRIVE WELLNESS’ THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT FOR VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS
At Thrive Wellness, veterans and service members have access to many integrated health services including mental and behavioral health therapy , occupational therapy , and physical health care . Our interdisciplinary clinicians approach client treatment collaboratively in order to provide well-rounded, targeted care. Reach out to learn more.
While all Thrive Wellness locations offer interdisciplinary clinical teams who collaborate to treat eating disorders, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and additional mental and behavioral health conditions, programs and services may vary by location.
About the Authors
Thrive Wellness Reno Therapist Samuel Hunt, LMFT
Samuel Hunt received his master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from Northcentral University and has specialized in serving the LGBTQ+ community for several years. He is passionate about providing gender-affirming therapy, care, and support to a population that is often underserved yet deserving of educated and professional health care as well as advocacy for equal rights.
As a marriage and family therapist at Thrive Wellness Reno, Samuel works with individuals of all ages, especially teenagers and those who identify as transgender. He takes pride in being client-focused as he wholeheartedly believes a client is an expert in their own life. With honor, he offers clients a safe space to express themselves and provides an outside perspective while guiding and empowering them to embrace their true selves.
In addition to traditional therapy, Samuel facilitates a transgender teen group in Northern Nevada and speaks at the University of Nevada, Reno’s medical panel each year to inform and inspire medical students. He is also a member of the Standards of Care Collective in Reno, which reviews the latest LGBTQ+ research and provides support to the LGBTQ+ community, including low-cost gender-affirming letters. Sam also volunteers his time with local charities, such as Our Center and Pride Reno, to help raise awareness about the health care needs of the LGBTQ+ community.
Sam is a military veteran and is currently serving in the Army National Guard while pursuing a degree in interreligious chaplaincy so that he can provide therapy to members of the military. In his spare time, Sam cherishes hiking, camping, and spending time outdoors with his wife and three fur babies.
Thrive Wellness Reno Occupational Therapist Dr. Meadow Deason, OTD, OTR/L
Dr. Meadow Deason earned her doctorate of occupational therapy at Huntington University and is a licensed doctor of occupational therapy (OTD). As an occupational therapist, she has extensive clinical experience in neurological and physical rehabilitation, fall prevention education, community-based services, home health, and mental health. Dr. Deason is also trained in oral motor function assessment, feeding therapy, therapeutic pain education, home modification, aging in place, brain injury rehabilitation, sensory integration, integration of primitive reflexes, neuromuscular rehabilitation, upper extremity rehabilitation, behavioral management, ergonomics, and mindfulness. She partners with individuals and their loved ones to overcome emotional, physical, and social barriers to holistic health through meaningful activities designed to develop, recover, modify, or maintain skills for thriving in everyday life.
Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, Dr. Deason gained years of experience in early childhood intervention, social services, treatment foster care, special education, and business.
When she is not helping her clients live their life to the fullest, she enjoys skiing, hiking, biking, and paddleboarding with her family.
The post Veteran and Service Member Mental Health Concerns and How Clinical Care Can Help first appeared on Thrive Wellness.
This Eating Disorders Awareness Month, we’re focusing on fighting the misinformation and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders that so often create barriers to diagnosis and treatment. Myths about eating disorders can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and keep people from receiving effective and timely treatment when they need it. It’s no secret that the field of eating disorders is riddled with misinformation, leading to confusion, stigma, and shame for those struggling. In this blog post, we'll explore the common myths about eating disorders and fight them with concrete facts in the hopes of building a more informed and educated community when it comes to these serious mental health conditions. Eating Disorder Myths Versus Facts Myth: Only those who are medically underweight have an eating disorder. Fact: Someone can have an eating disorder at any weight. In fact, less than 6% of those diagnosed with an eating disorder are medically underweight. There is even a specific diagnosis for those who are not underweight showing the symptoms of anorexia called atypical anorexia. People of all sizes are at risk for serious complications from an eating disorder, not just those that are underweight. Myth: Only women have eating disorders Fact: Although often associated with teen girls, eating disorders can affect those of any gender and age. While stereotypes and stigma surrounding eating disorders may tell us that men are not commonly affected by them, research has found that nearly 25% of those who present for eating disorder treatment are male. Keeping an open mind around who can be affected by eating disorders allows for more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. Myth: Eating disorders are just about food. Facts: While eating disorders always involve an unhealthy relationship with food or body image, they also are rooted in biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Eating disorders cannot be treated just by changing eating behaviors, but by addressing the mental aspect of the illness as well. This is why integrated treatment involving a team of social workers, primary care specialists, therapists, and in some cases occupational therapists or psychiatrists is so crucial: a holistic approach is needed to treat all aspects of an eating disorder. Myth: Eating disorders aren’t that serious. Fact: Eating disorders are extremely serious and life-threatening mental disorders that require dedicated treatment. In fact, anorexia nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. By taking eating disorders and their diagnosis and treatment seriously, we can save lives. Myth: Eating disorders are a choice. Fact: Just like any other illness, eating disorders are not a choice or a phase, nor is recovery from an eating disorder just a simple decision to start eating more or less. Recovery is not dependent on willpower, but on ongoing professional treatment and long-term support. The recovery process can be lengthy and challenging, requiring patience and a supportive environment and team on your side. It is a gradual, step-by-step journey, rather than an instantaneous decision made on one person’s part. Myth: Eating disorders always involve negative body image. Fact: Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) does not have to do with body image. Those with ARFID may avoid many foods because of texture, taste, color, or smell, or feared outcomes of eating like choking or vomiting. Like any other eating disorder, ARFID is serious and requires specialized treatment like exposure-response prevention therapy. Myth: Eating disorders only affect White people. Fact: Although Black, Latina/o/x/e, Indigenous/Native, and Asian people are historically underrepresented in studies of eating disorders, large-scale studies have found that rates of eating disorders are the same or higher in all racial and ethnic groups as compared to white individuals (NEDA). Removing racial stereotypes around eating disorders can help to remove barriers that BIPOC individuals commonly face when seeking treatment. Dispelling the Myths: A Path Towards Understanding By addressing and dispelling these myths, we can create a safe space that promotes understanding and empathy. Eating disorders are not choices or phases, but debilitating mental health issues that can affect anyone. Recognizing the seriousness of these disorders is so important in reducing stigma and ensuring that those who are struggling receive the care and support they require. This month and every month, we encourage you to fight misinformation and stick up for those experiencing eating disorders, because knowledge and education can be one of the greatest assets to recovery for those who need it. If you or someone you know is in need of eating disorder support, don’t be afraid to reach out , our team of healthcare professionals are here for you. To learn more about eating disorders and the journey to recovery, download our free eating disorders guide .
Did you know that February is Eating Disorder Awareness month? Here at Thrive, we're passionate about educating our community and providing tools for eating disorder recognition while offering the specialized support and treatment that those with eating disorders deserve. Join us this month in the conversation around eating disorders and putting an end to harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Let's cover six reasons why building awareness around eating disorders is so crucial. 6 reasons why eating disorder awareness is important 1. Eating disorders are serious. Despite often being termed as a "choice" or a "phase," eating disorders are an incredibly serious psychological condition that require specialized treatment and support. Anorexia Nervosa has the second highest mortality rate of any psychiatric diagnosis in the United States, and every 52 minutes, 1 person dies as a direct consequence of an eating disorder (NEDA) . By spreading awareness and providing early intervention in eating disorder treatment, we can not only change lives, but save them. 2. Eating disorders are more common than you think. 9% of the US population will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives and 22% of children and adolescents worldwide show symptoms of disordered eating (NEDA). Since eating disorders can be challenging to detect, many go undiagnosed. Raising awareness for eating disorders and educating our community partners about their symptoms can allow us to catch eating disorders as early as possible and bring these statistics down. 3. Fight harmful eating disorder stereotypes. A common stereotype in association with eating disorders is that of the "thin, white, affluent female," however, anyone is at risk of an eating disorder despite their appearance or background. Stereotypes associated with eating disorders around weight, gender, age and race can create serious barriers to seeking care and major disparities in treatment. People experiencing an eating disorder can face challenges in seeking and receiving treatment or may feel unworthy of recovery when they don’t fit a stereotype, preventing them from gaining needed support and treatment. Promoting diversity and representation through awareness and education can help to break down the harmful stereotypes that have historically surrounded eating disorders. 4. Eating disorder recovery is not a one person job. Family and loved ones’ involvement in eating disorder treatment is crucial for recovery. Family-based therapy (FBT) has proven to be effective in 50% of patients being treated for anorexia nervosa, and is effective in the treatment of other eating disorders as well. A strong support system and steadfast relationships through the struggles associated with eating disorders can lead to more effective and long-lasting recovery. With more awareness and education, people will be better equipped to provide assistance to their loved ones in recovery. 5. You’re not alone. Eating disorders can be an isolating and painful disorder, making those experiencing it feel like they’re the only ones, or that no one understands what they’re going through. Building an informed community through awareness and education can be the first step towards diagnosis and treatment for those who need it. 6. Recovery is Real. Those with eating disorders are capable of long-term recovery through appropriate treatment. Research has found that the earlier intervention takes place in the treatment of eating disorders, the better the odds of long-term recovery are. Awareness and education around eating disorders helps the people that need support find it sooner, resulting in a repaired relationship with food and the body and a fuller life. How can I get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts? To get involved in eating disorder awareness efforts, start by educating yourself about the complexities and different types of eating disorders. By gaining a deeper understanding, you can become a more effective advocate. You can also consider participating in local or national events such as walks, trainings, or online webinars that aim to raise awareness, provide support to those affected, and offer education around eating disorders and their diagnosis. Another simple step for building awareness can be using your social media platform to share factual information, personal stories, or relevant resources that can help demystify eating disorders and reduce stigma. Additionally, supporting legislative efforts that promote mental health education and funding for eating disorder research can help in creating systemic change. By taking these steps, you can contribute to this important movement and work alongside us to foster acceptance, encourage early intervention, and ultimately save lives. Eating Disorder Treatment and Support Thrive offers a free eating disorder guide with more information about eating disorder symptoms and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with eating or body image, don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for support. At Thrive Wellness, we offer a number of treatment options for all ages and genders, including a partial hospitalization program, an intensive outpatient program, outpatient therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition services, and more. Don’t wait to get started on treatment, contact us for a free eating disorder assessment today.
You’ve probably heard of “Dry January” or are even participating yourself. More and more people seem to be experimenting with or embracing sobriety from alcohol, but what benefits are there from abstaining? In this article, we’ll explore alcohol’s effects on mental health, the symptoms of alcohol use disorder (AUD), and the benefits of cutting back on drinking. Alcohol's Effects on Mental Health Commonly consumed as a way to relax after a long day or to lighten up in social interactions, alcohol is a widely used and culturally accepted drug despite warnings of its dangers by health experts . When a person regularly drinks, it can result in a slew of complications for their physical and mental health. Although often consumed in an attempt to escape stress, sadness, or other unpleasant emotions, alcohol itself is a depressant that can contribute to negative feelings and exacerbate existing mental health conditions, especially with prolonged use. Alcohol influences thoughts, mood, and behaviors by impacting the central nervous system in a way that slows the communication between the brain and the body. Without the ability to process information effectively, the brain isn't able to regulate emotions and consider consequences effectively which may promote unhealthy behaviors, including drinking to excess. Ways that alcohol can affect cognitive functioning include: Lowering inhibitions Contributing to poor judgment Causing confusion Causing lapses in memory Disrupting sleep Contributing to shifts in mood Alcohol and Mental Disorders According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, 37% of people with alcohol use disorders also have at least one serious mental illness. Furthermore, alcohol abuse commonly occurs alongside depression and anxiety . Research has shown that those with major depressive disorder and those with generalized anxiety disorder were more likely to report life‐time moderate to severe alcohol use disorder than those without these conditions. Frequently, individuals struggling with depression or anxiety self-medicate by drinking alcohol. Although alcohol may provide temporary relief, it expends the chemicals in the brain which help ward off anxiety and depression. When the initial effects of the drug fade, individuals are typically left feeling more depressed or anxious than they did before they began drinking. Related: Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Substance Abuse Disorders Alcohol Use and Depression The slowed functioning of the brain caused by alcohol can allow individuals to numb to their suffering. As such, those experiencing depression may be inclined to drink to avoid the sadness, pain, and hopelessness associated with depression. This maladaptive coping behavior is so prevalent that research shows a clear relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and major depression. Using alcohol while depressed can be extremely dangerous. Not only can alcohol negatively interact with antidepressants, but it can also place individuals experiencing depression at an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior . If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors , you can reach the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Alcohol Use and Anxiety According to a study on anxiety and AUD , a person with an anxiety disorder is two to three times more likely to develop an alcohol abuse disorder. When individuals with anxiety drink alcohol, they may feel an initial alleviation of their symptoms as well as a sense of euphoria. However, the symptoms of hangovers and alcohol withdrawal following heavy drinking can heighten feelings of anxiousness and interfere with ones daily obligations, contributing to even more agitation. This feeling of dread and anxiety associated with a hangover is commonly referred to as " hangxiety ," but for those with existing anxiety conditions, this side effect of drinking can feel unbearable. Individuals with anxiety may be driven to drink more to tamper their stress and re-establish the sense of euphoria, resulting in a dangerous cycle of alcohol abuse. Unhealthy Drinking Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) Most who regularly drink alcohol don't have AUD, which develops when addiction is present. However, alcohol-related side-effects on mental health are still common, and they may still benefit from mental health support . Signs of unhealthy alcohol use include: Feeling a need to consume alcohol to make it through the day Feeling unable to stop consuming alcohol Progressively feeling a need to increase consumption of alcohol Drinking to prevent or alleviate symptoms of hangover or withdrawal Feeling ashamed of ones alcohol consumption Having loved ones express concern over drinking habits AUD is a condition that is often driven by genetics, abuse, trauma, or unhealthy family dynamics. Healing from AUD is possible and it can be treated with the help of mental health professionals and a dedicated treatment plan. Signs of AUD include: Alcohol use that interferes with the ability to carry out daily activities Drinking despite the behaviors adverse effects on their life Often drinking more or for a longer period of time than intended Persistent desire and unsuccessful attempts to curb alcohol use Revolving their schedule around drinking Experiencing strong cravings for alcohol Continuing to drink despite experiencing recurring illness or social issues as a result of alcohol use Giving up activities one used to enjoy in favor of drinking Using alcohol during situations where its physically hazardous to be impaired Continuing to use alcohol despite knowing that it exacerbates a known existing health condition Developing a tolerance for alcohol, or needing more alcohol to feel the same effects Experiencing alcohol withdrawal or drinking more to avoid withdrawal What are the Mental Health Benefits of Going Sober or Drinking Less Alcohol? Reducing or eliminating your alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of mental health benefits, improving your overall quality of life. When going sober or cutting back on your alcohol consumption, some of the benefits you can look forward to are: Improved mood stability, including reduced feelings of depression and anxiety Improved sleep quality Enhanced cognitive function Increased energy levels Improved concentration and productivity Increased self-esteem More authentic social interactions Improved relationships Limiting your alcohol consumption has the capability to change your life for the better, as it can help you establish a healthier mental environment, build better connections, and improve your physical health. Support for Alcohol Abuse and its Mental Health Impacts As humans, it can be uncomfortable for us to process difficult experiences and feel intense emotions. Therapy can help heal the source of your struggles driving alcohol abuse, while also guiding you in implementing healthy strategies for processing painful emotions. Through professional mental health support, you can be empowered to embrace life without having to rely on alcohol. Thrive offers outpatient therapy for substance abuse struggles in addition to other mental and behavioral health conditions. Reach out to learn more. Additional Resources SAMHSAs National Helpline : A free, confidential, and 24/7 service for individuals and families facing mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders, reachable by calling 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or texting 435748 (HELP4U). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholisms (NIAAA) Treatment for Alcohol Problems : A guide for individuals and their loved ones who are looking for options to address struggles with alcohol use.
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