Veterans’ Health: Are We Ignoring Invisible Wounds?

Misinformation about health, especially concerning our veterans, is rampant. Are we truly prioritizing the well-being of those who served, or are we falling prey to dangerous myths?

## Myth #1: Veterans’ Health Issues Are Primarily Physical

This is a dangerous oversimplification. While physical injuries are certainly a concern, especially for those who saw combat, the invisible wounds often run deeper. We tend to focus on the physical toll of service – the lost limbs, the back pain, the hearing loss. But what about the mental burden? What about the trauma that doesn’t show up on an X-ray?

The truth is, mental health issues are incredibly prevalent among veterans. A study by the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) found that approximately 11-20% of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom experience PTSD in a given year [Department of Veteran Affairs](https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/index.asp). That’s a staggering number. Furthermore, veterans are at a significantly higher risk of suicide than the general population. According to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report [Department of Veteran Affairs](https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/docs/data-sheets/2023/2023-National-Veteran-Suicide-Prevention-Annual-Report-Executive-Summary.pdf), the suicide rate for veterans is about 50% higher than for non-veteran adults. Ignoring the mental health component is not only a disservice but can have fatal consequences.

## Myth #2: The VA Handles Everything; Veterans Don’t Need Outside Support

The VA provides essential services, but it’s not a one-stop solution for every veteran’s needs. While the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) offers a wide range of medical services, including mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and specialized programs for women veterans [U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs](https://www.va.gov/health/), relying solely on it can be limiting. You may want to consider if you’re cutting through the red tape now.

Wait times for appointments can be lengthy, and some veterans may find the bureaucracy overwhelming. Plus, not all veterans are eligible for VA care, or they may prefer to seek treatment elsewhere for various reasons. I had a client last year, a Vietnam vet living near the intersection of Peachtree Road and Piedmont Road in Buckhead, who struggled to get timely mental health care through the VA. He eventually found a therapist specializing in PTSD through a local non-profit, the Warrior Alliance, a community-based organization that helps veterans navigate resources. This highlights the importance of supplemental support networks. The Warrior Alliance can be reached at 404-585-2070. This is not to disparage the VA, which does important work, but to emphasize the need for a multi-faceted support system.

## Myth #3: Only Combat Veterans Suffer Long-Term Health Consequences

While combat exposure undeniably increases the risk of both physical and mental health issues, it’s inaccurate to assume that only those who saw direct action are affected. Many veterans experience health challenges related to their service even without direct combat exposure. It’s vital to understand the military & veteran myths.

Think about the support staff, the mechanics, the cooks, the truck drivers – all those who served in a war zone but didn’t necessarily engage in direct combat. They may have witnessed traumatic events, experienced high levels of stress, or been exposed to harmful substances. A report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine [National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine](https://www.nationalacademies.org/) highlights the long-term health effects of exposure to burn pits, which were commonly used in Iraq and Afghanistan to dispose of waste. These pits emitted toxic fumes that could cause respiratory problems, cancer, and other health issues, affecting a broad range of personnel. Furthermore, even those stationed stateside can experience secondary trauma from hearing the stories of their comrades or struggling with the transition back to civilian life.

## Myth #4: If a Veteran Is Struggling, They’re Just Looking for Attention

This is perhaps the most damaging and insensitive myth of all. It perpetuates stigma and prevents veterans from seeking the help they desperately need. Attributing a veteran’s struggles to a desire for attention completely disregards the potential underlying issues, such as PTSD, depression, or traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Consider the case of Sergeant Miller (fictional name), a veteran of the Iraq War. He started experiencing panic attacks and nightmares after returning home. Instead of seeking help, he bottled up his emotions, fearing that he would be seen as weak or attention-seeking. His condition worsened over time, leading to substance abuse and eventually homelessness. This tragic example illustrates the devastating consequences of stigma. We, as a society, need to create a supportive environment where veterans feel safe and encouraged to seek help without fear of judgment. Dismissing their struggles as attention-seeking is not only cruel but also actively harmful.

## Myth #5: Time Heals All Wounds; Veterans Should Just “Get Over It”

This sentiment, while well-intentioned, is incredibly dismissive and unrealistic. Trauma can have long-lasting effects on the brain and body. Telling someone to “just get over it” is like telling someone with a broken leg to just walk it off. It minimizes the severity of their experience and suggests that they are somehow choosing to suffer.

The reality is that many veterans require ongoing support to manage the long-term effects of their service. Therapy, medication, support groups, and lifestyle changes can all play a vital role in their recovery. I recall working with a veteran who had served in the Gulf War. Decades later, he was still grappling with the emotional scars of his experiences. Through consistent therapy and participation in a veterans support group at the Northside Shepherd Center near Roswell Road and I-285, he was able to develop coping mechanisms and improve his quality of life. Recovery is not a linear process, and it often requires sustained effort and support. It’s important to remember that veterans need more than thanks.

For example, a recent study by the Cohen Veterans Bioscience [Cohen Veterans Bioscience](https://www.cohenveteransbioscience.org/) found that the brains of veterans with PTSD show distinct differences compared to those without the condition, highlighting the biological basis of trauma and the need for specialized treatment.

Here’s what nobody tells you: the Fulton County Veterans Court (located at 185 Central Ave SW, Atlanta, GA 30303) is specifically designed to help veterans involved in the criminal justice system, recognizing that their service-related experiences may contribute to their legal troubles. This court offers an alternative to traditional prosecution, focusing on rehabilitation and treatment. A financial fight shouldn’t be another burden to carry.

Ultimately, understanding the realities of veteran health requires us to move beyond simplistic myths and embrace a more nuanced and compassionate perspective. Let’s ensure our veterans receive the care and support they deserve.

We must actively challenge these harmful misconceptions and commit to providing our veterans with the comprehensive and compassionate care they deserve. Start by sharing this article to raise awareness.