The war doesn't always end when the troops return home. Whether it's the psychological scars of battle or the uncertainty of readjusting to civilian life, needs often go unmet.
The Joining Forces America survey sheds light on the mental health and day-to-day challenges that many servicemembers face:
- Half of returning servicemembers reported some sort of mental health issue.
- Servicemembers are not likely to seek counseling, often because of a perceived stigma and fears that it may hurt their military careers.
Explore the Joining Forces America survey results for more.
"Be honest with your physical problems, feelings and issues. Take advantage of the many opportunities to get assistance."
Combat veteran
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"Take time to allow the reintegration to occur. Do not try to take on all the roles you had prior to deployment."
Combat veteran
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"Give your family and spouse time to relinquish the roles they have had to take on."
Combat veteran
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"You are not alone, seek help even if you don't think you need it or feel like it is a weakness. It isn't."
Combat veteran
"Adjustment cannot be successfully accomplished alone. Do not take time off from life, but rather jump back in immediately! "
Combat veteran
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"Stay active in your church, community, workplace, and with your family. Openly share your experience."
Combat veteran
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"Seek out help – there are lots of resources out there."
Combat veteran
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"It takes a strong soldier to experience combat, but it takes an even stronger one to know when to get help."
Combat veteran
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"Take it slow and easy. You don't need to grab the reigns right away."
Combat veteran
Share your voice
Watch The Next Mission, the Regional Emmy-Award winning documentary inspired by our survey.
