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AmericaServes is a resource that provides veterans, transitioning service members, and their families access to an array of supportive services within their communities. It is often overwhelming for those seeking help to navigate through which are most helpful. AmericaServes helps by having all the services and programs in one area, allowing for easy use which allows for better utilization of the available services for their unique needs.

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AmericaServes - Serving Veterans, Service Members & Their Families

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AmericaServes is a network of organizations that work together across the United States to provide service for veterans, service members & their families.

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Nutrition and Food Services (NFS) provides nutritional services to veterans and their family members. Staffed nutrition professionals promote wellness and help prevent diseases by educating and counseling about nutrition.

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This weight management/health promotion program aims to reduce health risks, prevent/reverse certain diseases, and improve quality of life. It is supported by Veterans Affairs National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention.

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MOVE! is a national weight management program designed by the VA National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention (NCP), a part of the Office of Patient Care Services, to help veterans lose weight, keep it off and improve their health.

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Tobacco is a very commonly abused substance among veterans. About 7 out of 10 who smoke tobacco admit they would like to quit. There are many mental and physical benefits to quitting, along with services and medications that help veterans during the process.

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Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you’ve earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member—like health care, disability, education, and more.

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A crisis line for veterans is offered as a support system for those who feel they need it. A trained responder will answer the call or text message and help the veteran deal with whatever it is that is causing them distress.

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24/7, confidential crisis support for Veterans and their loved ones. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 then Press 1, chat online, or text 838255.

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The number of female veterans continues to grow each year. However, many gender-specific needs are still not being met. Some of needs include health care, military sexual trauma, mental health, disability, unemployment, and homelessness.

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The research reveals that America's nearly 300,000 women veterans are put at risk by a system designed for and dominated by male veterans. This report paints a compelling picture of federal agencies and community service providers that consistently fail to understand that women are impacted by military service and deployment differently than men.

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The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs runs programs that help veterans and their family members. These services include rehabilitation services, compensation, home loan guarantees, pension, health care, and burials.

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | USAGov

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The Department of Veterans Affairs runs programs benefiting veterans and members of their families. It offers education opportunities and rehabilitation services and provides compensation payments for disabilities or death related to military service, home loan guaranties, pensions, burials, and health care that includes the services of nursing homes, clinics, and medical centers.

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An estimated 76,000 veterans sleep on the streets every night, as veterans make up 17% of the homeless population.

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The veteran homelessness situation in the United States is sobering. When someone puts their life on the line for our country, they should be welcomed back to a warm home and a loving family, not the destitute circumstance of having to sleep on park benches or in cardboard boxes. Below is some general information about finding help or offering support for homeless veterans.

Homeless Veterans Statistics

The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that 76,000 veterans sleep on the streets every night.

Despite the fact that only 8% of the U.S. population can claim status as a veteran, veterans make up 17% of the homeless population.

50% of homeless veterans served in the Vietnam War while 66% of homeless veterans have served within the last three years, and 33% have served in active war zones.

96% of homeless veterans are single males, but the amount of female homeless veterans is rising. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimated that female veterans are two-to-three times as likely to become homeless than any other demographic in the U.S. population.

Veterans between the ages of 18 and 30 are twice as likely to become homeless than the general population.

53% of the homeless veteran population are disabled, 50% suffer from mental illness, and 66% suffer from substance abuse.

Although members of the general homeless population are homeless for about 4 years, veterans are homeless for an average of 6 years.

Causes of Veteran Homelessness

One of the primary causes of veteran homelessness is living below the poverty line. As it is increasingly difficult to find affordable housing, 1.5 million veterans spend over 50% of their income on rent, leaving little money left over for other financial needs. With such an unbalanced budget, the risk of homelessness is high. In addition to financial strains, many veterans suffer post-traumatic stress disorder and other disabilities, which makes it hard for them to secure employment and a reliable income. The VA does offer support for disabled veterans, but securing disability pensions can take up to 8 months, and veterans often don't have the financial stability to sustain themselves while they wait for the pension. In addition to the financial struggles they face, returning veterans often lack support from family and friends and suffer social isolation, which drives them to homelessness.

Help from the Department of Veteran Affairs

The Department of Veteran Affairs offers numerous programs to help homeless veterans get into better situations. VA hospitals, community clinics, and veteran centers offer free healthcare, including mental healthcare. With better physical and mental states, veterans are more likely to secure employment. The VA also has programs that offer training's to help veterans find jobs. In addition to medical and employment programs, the VA has housing programs in place to help veterans find and pay for affordable housing. The VA home loan allows veterans to get a home loan with no money down and pay back the loan with low monthly payments and low interest rates. Another program is the VA Supportive Housing Program, which works with the Department of Housing and Urban Development to find affordable homes for veterans.
What Can You Do?
Although the homeless veteran situation seems too large to be conquered, there are little ways you can help, and those little ways can make a big difference. One of the biggest ways to help is to support veterans you know and offer friendship and love for them. If you don't know any veterans personally, there are many local organizations and service providers where you can volunteer your time or donate money to help and give back to the veterans who have given so much for our country.

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Homeless Veterans Facts - Protect Our Troops

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U.S. Homeless Veteran Facts The veteran homelessness situation in the United States is sobering. When someone puts their life on the line for our country, they should be welcomed back to a warm home and a loving family, not the destitute circumstance of having to sleep on park benches or in cardboard boxes.

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Some veterans abuse substances as a way to cope with stress from their deployments. This is a very prevalent issue, as 1 in 4 veteran deaths are a result of some kind of substance abuse. It is important to look for signs of addiction and refer veterans to places that will help them cope in healthier ways.

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Many veterans wrestle with stress from deployments to combat zones. The stressful military life coupled with injuries and illnesses puts them at an increased risk for substance use disorders. A growing number of veterans turn to drugs to cope with the pressure of societal reintegration after the military.

With a 52.7 percent increase in outpatient veterans treated for substance abuse disorders from 1995 to 2013, it is undeniable that addiction is a major concern among the veteran community.

Between 2006 and 2009, the army reported that more than 45 percent of the 397 noncombat related deaths investigated were the result of an alcohol or drug overdose.

Substance Use Trends in the Military

More than one in four military deaths are attributed to substances of abuse, so it is no surprise that addiction is a prevalent issue in the United States military. Stress from the hectic military lifestyle including warzone and combat exposure contributes to an epidemic of drug use.

Illicit drug use is at an all-time low, but alcohol consumption and prescription opioid abuse are major areas of concern. Between 2006 and 2009, the army reported that more than 45 percent of the 397 noncombat related deaths investigated were the result of an alcohol or drug overdose.

Drug Use After the Military

Readjusting to normal life is a difficult process for veterans. Out of the 23.4 million veterans in the United States, 7.1 percent met the criteria for a substance use disorder between 2004 and 2006.

Service members return from combat zones with a myriad of problems including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression or traumatic brain injuries. While some of these injuries and mental illnesses require the use of opioid pain relievers, a portion of service members misuse them, leading to addiction.

Prescription Medications

VA records disclosed that the two most common prescription drugs veterans abuse after the military are opioid pain medications and benzodiazepines.

In an audit of 20 VA rehabilitation facilities, 10 percent of patients received more than a week's supply of narcotics at one time to self-administer. Widespread availability and lax supervision from doctors are major contributors to increased drug abuse among veterans.

Sixty-four percent of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were prescribed at least one opioid in a one-year period. Of these veterans, four out of 10 had long-term opioid prescriptions. This is concerning because prescription holders are three times more likely to misuse prescription opioids than those without a prescription.

Sixty-four percent of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans were prescribed at least one opioid in a one-year period.

In 2011, the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management (JPSM) reported that 16.3 percent of veterans shared prescriptions to manage their pain, and 29 percent of veterans resorted to alcohol or street drugs to treat pain. Thirty-five percent of veterans used a combination of both. These dangerous practices increase the chances of an overdose.

Addiction

Veterans who abuse drugs blame their addiction on the horrors of war. To them, alcohol and drugs are an escape.

35 percent of soldiers tried heroin while in Vietnam and 19 percent developed an addiction.

Researchers from the Washington University School of Medicine carried out a study on Vietnam War veterans and heroin use upon their return. The study, originally published in 1977, found that 35 percent of soldiers tried heroin while in Vietnam and 19 percent ended up developing a heroin addiction.

It is clear that combat exposure highly correlates to binge drinking among service members. In 2008, NIDA reported that 27 percent of active duty personnel who had been in combat engaged in weekly binge drinking.

As they transition to life after the military, some former military members struggle with alcoholism. A 2007 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed that 12 to 15 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans had an alcohol use problem in the three to six months following their release.

Numerous studies link addiction to traumatic stress from being at war.

Are you a military veteran struggling with substance abuse?

We have programs designed specifically for you.

Addiction and PTSD: A Vicious Circle

People with PTSD often resort to alcohol and other drugs as a coping mechanism. Often, the coping mechanism turns into an addiction. The VA reports that people who used drugs and alcohol before a PTSD diagnosis remained faithful users after. However, PTSD can cause addiction.

The relationship between PTSD and addiction is clear. According to the VA, more than one in five veterans with PTSD have a substance use disorder and one out of three veterans who seek addiction treatment has PTSD.

One-third of veterans who seek drug addiction treatment meet the criteria for PTSD.

Three out of four Vietnam War veterans with PTSD meet the criteria for a substance use disorder.

"Compared with other Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans, those with PTSD exhibited higher-risk of opioid use and adverse clinical outcomes, including injuries and overdose."

- Seal, K.H. ET AL., Journal of the American Medical Association, 2012

Repercussions of Addiction in Members Suffering from PTSD

Several veterans who suffer from PTSD resort to drugs and alcohol to self-medicate, but self-medication causes symptoms to worsen in the long run. In cases where the person suffers from insomnia, substance use alters the quality of sleep, and the user feels groggy and restless.

Health problems such as physical pain

Relationship trouble with family and peers

Job retention difficulty

Challenging societal integration

Some PTSD symptoms include a surge of emotions, paranoia and a feeling of alienation from others. The intake of drugs and alcohol magnifies these symptoms, making these feelings worse.

Drugs and alcohol are not helpful for people with PTSD. The substances cause them to avoid the traumatic memories associated with their time in the military, which delays treatment.

The Link Between PTSD and Overdose

Numerous studies have shown that extensive use of prescription opioids and antidepressants puts veterans at a high risk for fatal overdose.

29 to 42 percent of Afghanistan and Iraq veterans experienced difficulties reintegrating with their friends and family.

According to a 2012 study by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), veterans diagnosed with PTSD-associated mental illness were more likely to receive opioid prescriptions. The authors further remarked that the veterans were prone to alcohol and drug use disorders, received higher and more frequent doses of opioids and had prolonged opioid use.

The research linked prescription opioids to adverse clinical outcomes such as injuries, central nervous system depression and overdose in veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Veterans with PTSD were more likely to be prescribed a benzodiazepine with more than one opioid at the same time. The mix of prescription pills heightens the risk of overdose in veterans.

Another study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry observed a correlation between accidental overdose and co-occurring disorders in veterans receiving care from the Veterans Health Administration. The researchers also found that the rate of accidental overdose doubled for VHA patients compared to the regular U.S. population.

Aftermath of Veteran Drug Abuse

Mental and substance use disorders were the primary cause of hospitalization among U.S. troops in 2009. Aside from the plethora of health consequences from alcohol and drug abuse, substance use disorders bring a number of other issues to veterans' lives.

Treatment

Treatment is crucial to veterans if they wish to resume a normal life where they can thrive without substance abuse. Luckily, a combination of medication-assisted treatment and therapy has proven to be effective in helping veterans recover.

The VA offers different levels of treatment to cater to veterans afflicted with a substance use disorder. They also offer different options where veterans can seek treatment in case VA Care Centers are not available.

Addiction is not a one-size-fits-all problem.

Get a recovery plan that's made for service members.

Get Help Now

Veterans Affairs Assistance

As one of the largest providers of mental health care, the VA provides treatment for more than 1.1 million patients possessing a mental illness or substance use disorder. The VA offers comprehensive services regardless of the duration of treatment.

Alcohol dependence - treated with medication and counseling

Tobacco cessation - treated with medication or patches

Opioid addiction - treated with medication and therapy

Co-occurring disorders such as PTSD and depression

Relationship or interpersonal communication issues

Counseling and Therapy

The VA also provides veterans with a list of resources to help them achieve a substance-free life. For the treatment of substance use disorders, VA centers are equipped with psychologists specialized in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and motivational enhancement therapy.

CBT is a therapy that teaches veterans to recognize negative behavior associated with substance use and work on changing their attitude to improve their lives. CBT encourages positive thinking in veterans and helps them shape their future. The veteran will meet a therapist once a week for 12 weeks.

Motivational interviewing for substance abuse helps veterans find motivation to change substance using behaviors and focus on practices that are more constructive. MI is a conversation between the therapist and the veteran highlighting the reasons he or she wishes to make a change and the potential benefits that come with the change.

The VA diagnosed 375,000 patients with a substance use disorder in 2007.

Levels of Treatment

To ensure that veterans have the substance abuse treatment they need, the VA provides flexible treatment options during the evening and on weekends. The organization has residential treatment options for veterans who live far from a VA facility or do not have fixed housing. The VA also has special programs designed to help women, current conflict veterans and homeless veterans.

Other Treatment Options

Treatment at VA facilities is not always readily available because of the increasing number of veterans and dependents requiring care.

Emergency cases allow veterans to use the nearest hospitals.

Pre-approved medical care allows veterans to receive routine outpatient services and some inpatient services through community providers.

Patient-Centered Community Care (PC3) is a network of providers that offer comprehensive services including mental health care.

Veterans with dishonorable discharges are not eligible for VA care; however, they can receive treatment at regular facilities treating substance use disorders.

View Sources

100,000 Homes Campaign. (2011, November). National Survey of Homeless Veterans in 100,000 Homes Campaign Communities. Retrieved from http://www.va.gov/homeless/docs/nationalsurveyofhomelessveterans_final.pdf

Bohnert, A.S. et al. (2012, January). Risk of Death From Accidental Overdose Associated With Psychiatric and Substance Use Disorders. Retrieved from http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.ajp.2011.10101476#

Committee on Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management of Substance Use Disorders in the U.S. Armed Forces. (2013, February 21). Substance Use Disorders in the U.S. Armed Forces. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK207276/

Drug Policy Alliance. (2012, November). Healing a Broken System: Veterans and the War on Drugs. Retrieved from http://www.drugpolicy.org/sites/default/files/DPA_Healing%20a%20Broken%20System_Veterans%20and%20the%20War%20on%20Drugs_November%202012_Final_0.pdf

Goebel, J.R. et al. (2011, May). Prescription Sharing, Alcohol Use, and Street Drug Use to Manage Pain Among Veterans. Retrieved from http://www.jpsmjournal.com/article/S0885-3924(10)01024-9/fulltext

Lan, C. et al. (2016, January). The epidemiology of substance use disorders in US Veterans: A systematic review and analysis of assessment methods. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ajad.12319/abstract;jsessionid=E96FAC57B2ACE143B03A4DB21070B34F.f02t03

Milliken, C.S., Auchterlonie, J.L. & Hoge, C.W. (2007, November 14). Longitudinal assessment of mental health problems among active and reserve component soldiers returning from the Iraq war. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?cmd=search&term=18000197

National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. (n.d.). FAQ about Homeless Veterans. Retrieved from http://nchv.org/index.php/news/media/background_and_statistics/

National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2013, March). DrugFacts: Substance Abuse in the Military. Retrieved from https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/substance-abuse-in-military

Robins, L.N. et al. (1977). Vietnam Veterans Three Years after Vietnam: How Our Study Changed Our View of Heroin. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1521-0391.2010.00046.x/abstract

Sayer, N.A., Carlson, K.F. & Frazier, P.A. (2014, January 13). Reintegration Challenges in U.S. Service Members and Veterans Following Combat Deployment. Retrieved from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/sipr.12001/abstract

Schumm, J.A. & Chard, K.M. (n.d.). Alcohol and Stress in the Military. Retrieved from http://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arcr344/401-407.htm

Seal, K.H. et al. (2012, March 7). Association of Mental Health Disorders With Prescription Opioids and High-Risk Opioid Use in US Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan. Retrieved from http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=1105046

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014, January 7). Twenty-one Percent of Veterans in Substance Abuse Treatment Were Homeless. Retrieved from http://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/spot121-homeless-veterans-2014.pdf

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2014, September 29). Veterans and Military Families. Retrieved from http://www.samhsa.gov/veterans-military-families

The United States Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs. (2015, March 26). Statement of Dr. Carolyn Clancy, M.D. Interim Under Secretary for Health Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Before the Committee on Veterans' Affairs United States Senate. Retrieved from https://www.veterans.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/VA Clancy Testimony 3.26.20151.pdf

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2015, August 14). Prolonged Exposure Therapy. Retrieved from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/treatment/therapy-med/prolonged-exposure-therapy.asp

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2015, August 13). PTSD and Substance Abuse in Veterans. Retrieved from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/problems/ptsd_substance_abuse_veterans.asp

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2015, June 3). Treatment Programs for Substance Use Problems. Retrieved from http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/res-vatreatmentprograms.asp

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (n.d.). Understanding PTSD and Substance Abuse. Retrieved from http://www.ptsd.va.gov/about/print-materials/sudptsdflyer.pdf

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Many veterans wrestle with stress from deployments to combat zones. The stressful military life coupled with injuries and illnesses puts them at an increased risk for substance use disorders. A growing number of veterans turn to drugs to cope with the pressure of societal reintegration after the military.

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Veterans are at almost double the risk of committing suicide compared to civilians. Many factors contribute to suicidal acts, one of the most prevalent being post traumatic stress disorder.

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These illnesses are medically unexplained and believed to be associated with Gulf War service in Southwest Asia. These illnesses often have multiple chronic symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, joint pain, insomnia, dizziness, respiratory disorders, and memory problems.

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Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses - Public Health

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Information about Gulf War Veterans' illnesses and related VA benefits and programs

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The herbicide/defoliant called Agent Orange was often used during the war with Vietnam.  Exposure may cause lasting illnesses and diseases that may take years to develop.  Veterans may receive compensation if their illnesses are believed to be caused by Agent Orange.

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1. Agent Orange was a herbicide and defoliant used in Vietnam

Agent Orange was a blend of tactical herbicides the U.S. military sprayed from 1962 to 1971 during the Vietnam War to remove the leaves of trees and other dense tropical foliage that provided enemy cover. The U.S. Department of Defense developed tactical herbicides specifically to be used in "combat operations." They were not commercial grade herbicides purchased from chemical companies and sent to Vietnam.

More than 19 million gallons of various "rainbow" herbicide combinations were sprayed, but Agent Orange was the combination the U.S. military used most often. The name "Agent Orange" came from the orange identifying stripe used on the 55-gallon drums in which it was stored.

Heavily sprayed areas included forests near the demarcation zone, forests at the junction of the borders of Cambodia, Laos, and South Vietnam, and mangroves on the southernmost peninsula of Vietnam and along shipping channels southeast of Saigon.

2. Any Veteran who served anywhere in Vietnam during the war is presumed to have been exposed to Agent Orange.

For the purposes of VA compensation benefits, Veterans who served anywhere in Vietnam between January 9, 1962 and May 7, 1975 are presumed to have been exposed to herbicides, as specified in the Agent Orange Act of 1991.

These Veterans do not need to show that they were exposed to Agent Orange or other herbicides in order to get disability compensation for diseases related to Agent Orange exposure.

Service in Vietnam means service on land in Vietnam or on the inland waterways ("brown water" Veterans) of Vietnam.

3. VA has linked several diseases and health conditions to Agent Orange exposure.

VA has recognized certain cancers and other health problems as presumptive diseases associated with exposure to Agent Orange or other herbicides during military service. Veterans and their survivors may be eligible for compensation benefits.

4. Veterans who want to be considered for disability compensation must file a claim.

Veterans who want to be considered for disability compensation for health problems related to Agent Orange exposure must file a claim.

During the claims process, VA will check military records to confirm exposure to Agent Orange or qualifying military service. If necessary, VA will set up a separate exam for compensation.

5. VA offers health care benefits for Veterans who may have been exposed to Agent Orange and other herbicides during military service.

Veterans who served in Vietnam between January 9, 1962, and May 7, 1975, are eligible to enroll in VA health care. Visit VA's Health Benefits Explorer to check your eligibility and learn how to apply.

6. Participating in an Agent Orange Registry health exam helps you, other Veterans and VA.

VA's Agent Orange Registry health exam alerts Veterans to possible long-term health problems that may be related to Agent Orange exposure during their military service. The registry data helps VA understand and respond to these health problems more effectively.

The exam is free to eligible Veterans and enrollment in VA health care is not necessary. Although the findings of your exam may be used to inform your subsequent care, they may not be used when applying for compensation as a separate exam is required. Contact your local VA Environmental Health Coordinator about getting an Agent Orange Registry health exam.

7. VA recognizes and offers support for the children of Veterans affected by Agent Orange who have birth defects.

VA has recognized that certain birth defects among Veterans' children are associated with Veterans' qualifying service in Vietnam or Korea.

The affected child must have been conceived after the Veteran entered Vietnam or the Korean demilitarized zone during the qualifying service period.

Learn more about benefits for Veterans' children with birth defects. http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange/benefits/children-birth-defects.asp

8. Vietnam Veterans are not the only Veterans who may have been exposed to Agent Orange.

Agent Orange and other herbicides used in Vietnam were used, tested or stored elsewhere, including some military bases in the United States. Other locations/scenarios in which Veterans were exposed to Agent Orange may include:

Possible exposure of crew members to herbicide residue in c-123 planes flown after the Vietnam War

9. VA continues to conduct research on the long-term health effects of Agent Orange in order to better care for all Veterans.

VA and other Federal government Departments and agencies have conducted, and continue to conduct, extensive research evaluating the health effects of Agent Orange exposure on U.S. Veterans.

An example is the Army Chemical Corps Vietnam-Era Veterans Health Study designed to examine if high blood pressure (hypertension) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are related to herbicide exposure during the Vietnam War. Researchers have completed data collection and aim to publish initial findings in a scientific journal in 2015.

Learn more about Agent Orange related studies and their outcomes here: http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/agentorange/research-studies.asp

10. VA contracts with an independent, non-governmental organization to review the scientific and medical information on the health effects of Agent Orange.

VA contracts with the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academy of Sciences every two years to scientifically review evidence on the long-term health effects of Agent Orange and other herbicides on Vietnam Veterans. The IOM uses a team of nationally renowned subject matter experts from around the country to gather all the scientific literature on a topic, identify peer-reviewed reports, and then examine the studies to determine the most rigorous and applicable studies. The IOM looks for the highest quality studies. The IOM then issues its reports, including its conclusions and recommendations to VA, Congress, and the public.
About the author:
Dr. Ralph Erickson is an Army Veteran of the Gulf War (1990-91) and Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003). He retired with 32 + years active-duty service, during which he held a number of leadership positions to include: Commander of The Walter Reed Army Institute of Research; Command Surgeon, US Central Command; and Director, DoD Global Emerging Infections and Response System (DOD-GEIS). He is a board certified physician in Preventive Medicine and Public Health. He received his medical degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS), Masters of Public Health from Harvard University, and Doctorate of Public Health from Johns Hopkins University.

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10 things every Veteran should know about Agent Orange - VAntage Point

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Agent Orange was a blend of tactical herbicides the U.S. military sprayed from 1962 to 1971 during the Vietnam War to remove the leaves of trees and other dense tropical foliage that provided enemy cover. The U.S. Department of Defense developed tactical herbicides specifically to be used in "combat operations."

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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an injury to the brain which can be caused by explosive blasts or the head being struck by an object. These injuries may be debilitating and vary from mild, moderate, to severe.

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Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a wound that was unheard of just a few short years ago. It occurs when a sudden trauma or head injury disrupts the function of the brain. Before modern-day medical advancements, speedy battlefield treatments, and advanced armor were developed, most people who suffered these types of injuries rarely survived.

Today however, TBI is becoming a more common injury among military members as well as the general public. Most reported military TBI cases are related to Improvised Explosive Devices, or IEDs.

Like professional sports teams, the military is beginning to understand that a TBI is more serious than a bump on the head that requires a couple of aspirin and back into action.

What is TBI?

Not all TBI injuries are totally debilitating, in fact concussions can be medically classified as a TBI.

What we normally think of when discussing TBI is a brain injury that is severe or traumatic enough to cause easily noticeable symptoms.

When the brain is injured, a person can experience a change in consciousness that can range from becoming disoriented and confused to slipping into a coma. The person might also have a loss of memory for the time immediately before or after the event that caused the injury.

See our Glossary of TBI-related terms for more information.

How Does TBI Happen?

Not all TBI injuries come from explosive blasts, TBIs can come from:

The head being struck by an object, such as a bat or a fist during a fight

The head striking an object, such as the dashboard in a car accident or the ground in a fall, or

The head being affected by a nearby blast or explosion.

TBI Symptoms

Symptoms can appear immediately or weeks to months following the injury. Depending upon the severity of the wound, TBI injuries fall into different categories:

Mild TBI

Otherwise known as a concussion, mild TBI is more difficult to diagnose both in civilian life and on the military battlefield.

With mild TBI patients, full recovery can be within minutes to hours; a small percentage have symptoms that may persist months or years.

Symptoms of mild TBI include headache, dizziness, nausea & vomiting, trouble concentrating, memory problems and irritability.

Moderate TBI

This includes a population of patients that falls between the mild and severe spectrum. Moderate TBI patients have the most variability in their symptoms.

There is usually loss of consciousness, from an hour to a day; there can be confusion for days to weeks; and mental or physical deficits that can last months or be permanent.

Severe TBI

This injury usually results from a significant closed head injury, as in an automobile accident or most open or penetrating injuries, where there may be considerable residual deficits of brain function.

Depending on the injury, a severe TBI could impact speech, sensory, vision and cognitive deficits including difficulties with attention, memory, concentration, and impulsiveness.

What are the Consequences of TBI?

TBI can cause a number of difficulties for the person who is injured. This can include physical changes, changes in behavior, or problems with thinking skills.

After an injury, a number of symptoms might be noted including headaches, dizziness/problems walking, fatigue, irritability, memory problems and problems paying attention.

These symptoms are often related to how severe the brain injury was at the time of injury, but there is much that is not understood, and this isn't always the case. Every person is different.

Diagnosis

The military screens anyone suspected of a TBI while in theater. This screening is done on anyone:

Who has been in a vehicle that was damaged by a blast

Within 50 meters of a blast

Within a structure hit by an explosive device

Who sustained a direct blow to the head or experienced a loss of consciousness

Who is directed to be screened by their command

While the VA automatically enters anyone into TBI treatment that has been diagnosed by the DOD, they also requires anyone who served in combat operations and separated from active duty service after Sep. 11, 2001 to complete a questionnaire to help identify anyone who may have TBI but wasn't diagnosed for it while in the military.

A positive screen doesn't necessarily diagnose TBI. It only indicates the need to further evaluate someone for a possible TBI. Veterans who screen positive with the TBI screening questionnaire are offered a comprehensive TBI evaluation with a specialist to determine whether they have a TBI or not

Depending on the situation, other specialists such as social workers, physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, psychologists, and others may be involved in the comprehensive evaluation to help determine whether treatment is necessary.

Care and Treatment

VA has a specialized system of care for TBI sufferers that integrates several types of care including medical, rehabilitative, and psychological care. VA also offers other benefits and treatment options such as family caregivers, specially adapted homes and more.

Treatments for TBI focus on the symptoms that cause most problems in everyday life. These can include:

Medications

Learning strategies to deal with health, cognitive, and behavioral problems

Rehabilitation therapies (such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy)

Assistive devices and technologies

For more details on VA's TBI care please visit our TBI Rehabilitation Page.

Disability Compensation

Depending on the extent of the injury, vets are eligible up to 100% disability rating. If you are military veteran with a service-related disability you may qualify for compensation ranging from $133 to more than $3,300 tax-free each month. Learn more about veteran disability compensation.

Stay On Top Of Your Benefits

Unsure of what veteran healthcare benefits you are entitled to? Keep up with all the changes and details by signing up for a free Military.com membership, which will send all the latest benefits straight to your inbox, as well as give you access to up-to-date benefit information and more.

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Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a wound that was unheard of just a few short years ago. It occurs when a sudden trauma or head injury disrupts the function of the brain. Before modern-day medical advancements, speedy battlefield treatments, and advanced armor were developed, most people who suffered these types of injuries rarely survived.

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Veterans may develop and experience post traumatic stress disorder as a result of witnessing life threatening events.

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We are the world's leading research and educational center of excellence on PTSD and traumatic stress.

PTSD is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or traumatic event. If symptoms last more than a few months, it may be PTSD. The good news is that there are effective treatments.

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Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you've earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member-like health care, disability, education, and more.

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Military sexual trauma is an experience that can be detrimental to the mental health of a veteran. Both males and females experience MST.

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What is military sexual trauma (MST)?

During their service, both female and male Service members sometimes have upsetting, unwanted sexual experiences, including sexual assault or sexual harassment. "Military sexual trauma" or MST is the term used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to refer to these experiences. The official definition of MST used by VA is given by federal law (U.S. Code 1720D of Title 38). It is:

Psychological trauma, which in the judgment of a VA mental health professional, resulted from a physical assault of a sexual nature, battery of a sexual nature, or sexual harassment which occurred while the Veteran was serving on active duty or active duty for training.

Sexual harassment is defined as "repeated, unsolicited verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature which is threatening in character."

In more concrete terms, MST includes any sexual activity where you were involved against your will. You may have been physically forced into sexual activities. Or, no physical force may have been used but you were coerced or pressured into sexual activities. For example, you may have been threatened with negative consequences for refusing to cooperate. Or it may have been suggested that you would get faster promotions or better treatment in exchange for sex. These are all signs of MST.

Military sexual trauma also includes sexual experiences that happened while you were not able to consent to sexual activities, such as if you were intoxicated. Other MST experiences include unwanted sexual touching or grabbing, threatening, offensive remarks about your body or your sexual activities, and threatening and unwelcome sexual advances. If these experiences occurred while you were on active duty or active duty for training, they are considered to be MST.

"I remember the faces, the words, the smells, the negative, the unwarranted, unsolicited touches. I remember all of that. And I have friends who also are Veterans and went through worse than I did."

It's important to know that MST can occur on or off base, during war or peacetime, and while a Service member is on or off duty. Perpetrators can be men or women, military personnel or civilians, superiors or subordinates in the chain of command. They may have been a stranger to you, or even a friend or intimate partner. Veterans from all eras of service have reported experiencing MST.

If you experienced military sexual assault or harassment, you may blame yourself or feel ashamed. It is important to remember that MST is not your fault. Nothing ever justifies someone harassing or assaulting you.

How can MST affect Veterans?

Military sexual trauma is an experience, not a diagnosis or a condition in and of itself. Because of this, Veterans may react in a wide variety of ways to experiencing MST. Problems may not surface until months or years after the MST, and sometimes not until after a Veteran has left military service. For some Veterans, experiences of MST may continue to affect their mental and physical health, work, relationships, and everyday life even many years later.

Your reaction may depend on factors such as:

Whether you have a prior history of trauma

The types of responses you received from others at the time of the experience

Whether the experience happened once or was repeated over time

Some of the difficulties both female and male survivors of MST may have include:

Strong emotions: feeling depressed; having intense, sudden emotional responses to things; feeling angry or irritable all the time

Feelings of numbness: feeling emotionally "flat"; trouble feeling love or happiness

Trouble sleeping: trouble falling or staying asleep; bad dreams or nightmares

Trouble with attention, concentration, and memory: trouble staying focused; often finding your mind wandering; having a hard time remembering things

Problems with alcohol or other drugs: drinking to excess or using drugs daily; getting drunk or "high" to cope with memories or unpleasant feelings; drinking to fall asleep

Trouble with reminders of the sexual trauma: feeling on edge or "jumpy" all the time; not feeling safe; going out of your way to avoid reminders of the trauma; trouble trusting others

Problems in relationships: feeling alone or not connected to others; abusive relationships; trouble with employers or authority figures

Physical health problems: sexual issues; chronic pain; weight or eating problems; stomach or bowel problems

Fortunately, people can recover from experiences of trauma, and VA has services to help Veterans move their lives forward.

Why can MST be so harmful?

Sexual assault is more likely to result in symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) than are most other types of trauma, including combat. Also, the experience of MST can differ from the experience of other traumas, and even from the experience of sexual trauma in the civilian world. Why is this?

"Going through a sexual assault is bad enough. Then to have this happen to me in my job as a soldier; it was really difficult because what happened to the unit support? Your fellow soldiers are supposed to have your back."

Factors that may be unique to MST include:

You may have had to continue to live and work with your perpetrator, and even rely on him or her for essential things like food, health care, or watching your back on patrol

You may have been worried about damaging the team spirit of your unit if your perpetrator was in the same unit

You may have been worried about appearing weak or vulnerable, and thoughts that others would not respect you

You may have thought that if others found out, it would end your career or your chances for promotion

For these and other reasons, the experience of MST can put Service members in some no-win situations and be emotionally difficult for them to resolve as Veterans.

What should I know about treatment and VA services?

Although MST can be a very difficult experience, there are treatments available that can significantly improve your quality of life. Treatment often involves addressing any immediate health and safety concerns, followed by counseling to help you learn new ways of thinking, practice positive behaviors, and take active steps to cope with the effects of MST. Treatment may focus on strategies for coping with difficult emotions and memories or, for Veterans who are ready, treatment may involve actually talking about the MST experiences in depth.

At VA, Veterans can receive free, confidential treatment for mental and physical health conditions related to MST. You may be able to receive this MST-related care even if you are not eligible for other VA services. To receive these services, you do not need a VA service-connected disability rating, and you don't need to have reported the incident when it happened nor to have other documentation that it occurred.

Knowing that MST survivors may have special concerns, every VA health care facility has an MST Coordinator who can answer any questions you might have about VA's MST services. VA has a range of services available to meet Veterans where they are in their recovery process:

Every VA health care facility has providers knowledgeable about treatment for problems related to MST. Many have specialized outpatient mental health services focusing on sexual trauma. Vet Centers also have specially trained sexual trauma counselors.

VA has over 20 programs nationwide that offer specialized MST treatment in a residential or inpatient setting. These programs are for Veterans who need more intense treatment and support.

Because some Veterans do not feel comfortable in mixed-gender treatment settings, some facilities have separate programs for men and women. All residential and inpatient MST programs have separate sleeping areas for men and women.

What can I do to help manage my reactions to my experiences of MST?

If you're having problems related to your experiences of MST, you should consider seeking support from a doctor or counselor. In addition, there are many things you can do on your own to heal and recover after MST. Some basic lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Try to:

Get a good night's sleep

Maintain a healthy diet by eating right

Seek medical advice for any health concerns

Avoid excessive use of alcohol

Take over-the-counter and prescription drugs only as directed by your doctor

Avoid illegal drug use

Avoid risky behavior, like unsafe sex, gambling, and reckless driving

Recognize triggers-keep a record to help identify situations that are more likely to worsen your symptoms

Take up a new hobby or a recreational activity that can be a healthy way to fill your time

Talk to others-this can help you from feeling isolated and give friends and loved ones a chance to help you

Exercise regularly

Practice relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, or prayer

Your close family and friends may notice that you're having a tough time. If you feel comfortable, you may want to talk to them about what you're experiencing. They may be able to provide support and help you find treatment that is right for you.

"You can find the plan and techniques that work for you. What worked for me may not work for you but I can tell you I found the steps that led to my recovery: going to VA, asking about their options, talking to somebody about my MST and PTSD, going to their classes, attending their groups."

You can also take a confidential and anonymous self-assessment about your reactions. This short list of questions may help you decide how important it is to see a professional for further evaluation.

Take the next step to connect with care.

Every day, Veterans from all military service branches and eras connect with proven resources and effective treatments for MST-related issues. Here's how to take the next step: the one that's right for you.
New to VA? Apply for health care benefits. Already enrolled in VA and interested in mental health support? Schedule a mental health appointment.

If you're already enrolled and using VA health care, the fastest way to schedule VA appointments is to call the VA facility where you want to receive care.

With VA Appointments tools , you can schedule some VA health care appointments online, view details about upcoming appointments, and organize your health care calendar.

If you're not using VA medical services, contact your nearest VA medical center or Vet Center to talk about your needs.

What about other options at VA? VA offers a variety of tools and resources.

The Veteran Training online self-help portal for overcoming everyday challenges includes modules on managing anger, developing parenting and problem-solving skills, and more.

Mental health apps for Veterans cover a variety of topics, ranging from PTSD to anger management to quitting smoking.

VA TeleMental Health connects you with a VA mental health provider through a computer or mobile device in your home or at your nearest VA health facility. You can learn more about this option from your local VA medical center.

Vet Centers provide support, counseling, and readjustment services for Veterans and active duty service members (including members of the National Guard and Reserve) who have served on active military duty in any combat theater or area of hostility or have experienced a military sexual trauma. Find a Vet Center near you or call 1-877-WAR-VETS (1-877-927-8387) to talk with a fellow combat Veteran about your experiences, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

What about support beyond VA?
There's a whole community of support ready to help with whatever you're going through. Use this tool to find resources near you.

Explore these resources for more information about MST and its effects in Veterans.

Learn more about what you can do if you are experiencing specific concerns related to military sexual trauma, such as relationship problems, alcohol or drug problems, depression, and posttraumatic stress.

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Military Sexual Trauma | Real Stories From Military Veterans | Make the Connection

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During their service, both female and male Service members sometimes have upsetting, unwanted sexual experiences, including sexual assault or sexual harassment. "Military sexual trauma" or MST is the term used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to refer to these experiences. The official definition of MST used by VA is given by federal law (U.S.