News & Press

Veterans and Depression

Veterans and Depression

June 27, 2013

Clinical depression is an identified mental health disorder that includes persistently sad or irritable mood, loss of interest in activities, difficulty with concentration, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, and possibly recurring thoughts about death or suicide.

While there is no single cause for depression in the general population, there is evidence that depression is experienced in a greater number of U.S. Veterans, especially those veterans who also struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).   Returning Veterans, compared to general population, may have endured or been witness to traumatic experiences while serving our country.  Additionally, circumstances in their home lives may have changed which warrants a great amount of adjusting.  There are risk factors that offer special attention to Veterans who struggle with depression, including risk of suicide and substance use. 

Nationwide our communities are becoming more and more aware of the prevalence of depression among U.S. Veterans.  Ionia County Community Mental Health has emphasized a special interest with this group of individuals as we strive towards decreasing stigma among those with mental health disorders.    On July 25, 2013 from 11:00am-6:00pm, Ionia County CMH will be participating in Veteran’s day at the Ionia Free Fair.  We will be offering brief and confidential self-report screenings, with follow up by Ionia County CMH.  Additionally, the booth will offer other informational handouts on wellness, treatment models, and depression, to name a few.  We look forward to this event and offering our support to the Veterans in our community.