Beyond the Battlefield: Supporting the Mental Health of Our Veterans

UJALA FAWAD
May 27
2 min read

She served our country. Now it’s our turn to serve her—by supporting veterans’ mental health with compassion and care

Every year on #MemorialDay, we pause to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. But for those who return home, the battles often continue—internally, quietly, and too often, alone.

The Hidden Wounds of War

#Veterans face unique mental health challenges. Post-traumatic stress disorder #PTSD , #depression, #anxiety, and substance use disorders are all more prevalent among those who have served in the military. Some struggle with survivor’s guilt. Others wrestle with memories they can't escape. And while their strength may be visible, the toll on their mental health often remains unseen.

Barriers to Seeking Help

Despite growing awareness, many veterans still face significant barriers to mental health care:

Stigma: Many feel pressure to “stay strong” or worry that seeking help is a sign of weakness.
Access: Long wait times, limited VA resources, or geographic isolation can delay or prevent treatment.
Cultural disconnect: Civilian providers may not fully understand the military experience, making it harder for veterans to open up.

We Understand What Veterans Face

At Suburban Psychiatric Specialists, our doctors are Harvard-trained psychiatrists who completed residency training at a VA Medical Center. We’ve worked directly with veterans and understand the complexities of military culture, deployment stress, and trauma-related conditions. Our clinical expertise is matched by a deep respect for the sacrifices veterans have made—and a commitment to helping them heal.

How We Can Help

Supporting veterans goes beyond parades and public recognition. Here’s how we can all make a difference:

Normalize conversations about mental health. Talking openly helps reduce stigma.
Support veteran-specific mental health services. Organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project, Give an Hour, and VA crisis lines offer crucial support.
Educate ourselves. Understanding PTSD, moral injury, and military trauma fosters empathy and better care.
Check in. A simple message or call can remind someone they are not alone.

Honor Through Action

True patriotism means honoring not only those who died, but also those who carry the weight of service every day. As we salute our fallen heroes this Memorial Day, let’s also commit to supporting the living ones—by making mental health care a national priority.

Because honoring their sacrifice includes helping them heal.