Veterans

Why is there a stigma in the veteran community?

There is a stigma about counseling in the veteran community for several reasons. Some veterans feel that seeking counseling is a sign of weakness, which goes against the tough and resilient image that many veterans feel they must uphold. Additionally, some veterans may view seeking counseling as a betrayal of their military culture, which often emphasizes self-sufficiency and resilience. There is also a fear of being stigmatized or ostracized by peers or leadership for seeking mental health treatment, particularly for those in active duty or recently discharged. Additionally, some veterans may have had negative experiences with the mental health system, leading to mistrust or skepticism about the effectiveness of counseling.

How will I not be viewed as weak if I go to counseling?

It is important to understand that seeking counseling is not a sign of weakness, but rather a courageous and proactive step toward healing and personal growth. It may be helpful to educate oneself about the benefits of counseling and the positive impact it can have on mental health. Additionally, veterans may find comfort in connecting with other veterans who have sought counseling and have had positive experiences. Seeking support from trusted family members or friends who understand the challenges of being a veteran may also provide a sense of validation and support.

How can I trust a counselor to understand what I’ve been through?

Finding a counselor who specializes in treating veterans or has experience working with veterans can help in building trust and feeling understood. Veterans can also look for counselors who have received specialized training in issues commonly experienced by military personnel, such as PTSD or military sexual trauma. It can also be helpful to ask the counselor about their experience and approach to working with veterans during the initial consultation to ensure they are a good fit. Additionally, some veterans find it helpful to connect with other veterans who have had positive experiences with counseling and can provide recommendations or support.

How do I know there won’t be repercussions to my career if I seek counseling?

As a general rule, seeking counseling services will not have negative repercussions on a veteran's military career. The Department of Defense and the Veterans Health Administration have policies in place to protect the privacy and confidentiality of service members seeking mental health treatment. However, it is important to note that there are certain situations where a service member's mental health status may be disclosed, such as if they pose a threat to themselves or others. Veterans can speak with their counselor or healthcare provider about any concerns they may have about confidentiality and potential career repercussions.

I don’t think anything can help me at this, how do I know counseling will help?

If a veteran is skeptical about counseling or has lost hope, there are still ways in which counseling can help. A trained mental health professional can provide a safe space to discuss difficult emotions and experiences, offer coping strategies to manage symptoms of mental health issues, and help set achievable goals for personal growth and progress. Additionally, some veterans find it helpful to attend group counseling sessions with peers who have similar experiences, as this can provide a sense of community and support. Counseling can also help veterans improve communication skills, enhance relationships, and reduce feelings of isolation. Ultimately, counseling is a tool that can provide individuals with the skills and support they need to work through challenging emotions and experiences.