I am a disabled combat veteran, a 32-year old father of two remarkable children. My diagnoses include PTSD, two traumatic brain injuries, major depressive disorder, and memory loss. My journey has been an uphill battle - largely because of the stigma that surrounds mental health. Like many other service members, I was hesitant to seek help or treatment, fearing judgement and misunderstanding, until the complications became debilitating.

Now, my objective is to challenge this perception and underline that seeking help is not a display of weakness, but rather, a testament to strength and courage. I stand as an emblem of the thousands of American military veterans grappling with mental health conditions.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), veterans are at a 15% higher risk for mental health illnesses compared to the civilian population (Report, 2018). The US Department of Veterans Affairs states that every day, an estimated 22 American veterans take their lives as a result of untreated or poorly managed mental health issues (Annual Suicide Report, 2019). This disproportionate impact of mental health conditions on our veterans can no longer be swept under the rug.

Each signature on this petition sends a strong message to public policymakers and the broader community: the mental health of our veterans matters. It is time we shatter the stigma surrounding mental health, not just for veterans, but for everyone. Ignorance and misunderstanding can no longer be barriers to seeking help.
The person with these disabilities should be included in their own healing journey and not pushed into a vicious cycle of SSRI’s and traumatic experiences. Instead, those seeking help and improvement should be encouraged and supported to find what helps them while being ushered and mentored with their recovery instead of told what needs to happen. 

It is time to prioritize the mental health of American military veterans. Stand with us in raising awareness and eliminating stigma. Sign this petition today.