While it doesn’t always get the same coverage as PTSD, depression in veterans is one of the leading mental conditions military members experience. Though numerous studies have found that overall, veterans were no more likely than non-veterans to have anxiety or depression, the stressors that lead to developing the condition differ.
The dedicated team of professionals at Deer Hollow is committed to helping veterans dealing with depression achieve healing and reclaim their well-being. Using evidence-based specialized, inpatient, and outpatient treatments, we help people heal and lead more rewarding lives.
Depression in Veterans: the Unseen Wound
The term “unseen wound” refers to the fact that mental health issues, including depression, are often hidden from family, friends, and even healthcare professionals. Unlike visible physical wounds, they can’t always be easily observed or diagnosed.
The term also underscores the lack of understanding and stigma still surrounding mental health, especially in the military, where members may hesitate to seek help due to concerns about how they’ll be perceived. It also serves as a reminder that many veterans carry psychological burdens stemming from traumatic service or combat experiences. Lastly, it highlights the need for increased awareness, de-stigmatization, and accessible mental health treatment for veterans struggling with depression.
Addressing Veteran Mental Health Issues
It’s estimated one in ten male veterans are depressed; the rate in female vets is even higher, at 15 percent. Fortunately, help for veterans and their loved ones is more accessible than ever. Veterans can begin their healing process by:
- Accepting they need help. Remember, depression is not a weakness—everyone needs help sometimes to get better.
- Getting in touch with a mental health professional specializing in helping veterans.
- Building a network of people who support your journey toward improved mental health.
- Not giving up if one treatment or technique doesn’t work. It often takes multiple approaches, including CPT, DBT, Schema Therapy, and EMDR, to get results.
Learn More About Supporting First Responder Wellness
No two veterans experience depression in the same way. At Deer Hollow, we tailor mental health treatments to each person’s needs and circumstances. By building a support system that addresses immediate and long-term well-being, we make recovery a personalized and holistic journey that allows veterans to heal and enjoy more fulfilling lives.
To learn more about depression in veterans or to schedule a consultation with one of our professionals, contact us today.