Honoring our heroes and healing their invisible wounds: Memorial Day and veteran mental health

Each year, as the final Monday in May approaches, Americans nationwide prepare to honor the brave few who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Memorial Day was established in 1868, as Decoration Day to commemorate those who died in the American Civil War. Over the years, it has evolved into a solemn occasion to remember all military personnel who gave their life in service to the United States.

While Memorial Day is a time of reflection and gratitude, the holiday also serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles many of our living veterans face and an opportunity for all of us to reach out. For those who have served in combat, this day can be particularly challenging, often resurfacing painful memories and triggering symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Twenty-nine percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Enduring Freedom will experience PTSD in their lifetimes, according to the National Center for PTSD. While some may hope for time to heal all wounds, remember that 5% of Vietnam veterans and 2% of World War II and Korean War veterans reported PTSD symptoms within the last year surveyed.

It's important to note these numbers are even higher among our female veterans, many of whom experienced military sexual trauma within the ranks. A 2016 study of over 20,000 post-9/11 veterans found more than 40% of women experienced some form of military sexual trauma while serving.

These statistics are more than just numbers; they represent real individuals — our friends, family and neighbors — who carry invisible wounds. The impact of PTSD can be profound, affecting every aspect of a veteran's life, from relationships and employment to physical health and overall well-being.

As director of one of the nation's largest VA medical centers and a registered nurse, I've seen firsthand the courage and resilience of veterans who seek help for their mental health challenges. We should also recognize that not everyone who needs support comes forward. The stigma surrounding mental health, coupled with the stoic nature often ingrained in military culture, can prevent veterans from seeking the care they deserve.

This Memorial Day, while we honor those who have fallen, let us also turn our attention to those who continue to fight their own battles. Here are some important steps we can all take:

1. Reach out: Make a point to check in on the veterans in your life. A simple call or visit can make a significant difference. Even if someone appears to be doing well, they may still struggle internally. Your outreach could be the lifeline they need.

2. Encourage professional help: Visit the nearest emergency department if someone is at risk of hurting themselves. The COMPACT Act went into law last year and allows veterans in suicidal crisis to receive free emergency mental health care at any VA or non-VA hospital. It can also cover inpatient care for up to 30 days and outpatient care for up to 90 days. It's a lifesaving resource that more people need to know about.

You can also direct veterans to the Veterans Crisis Line (Dial 988 and press 1) or encourage them to visit the VA's mental health resource page at mentalhealth.va.gov.

Veterans can call Hines VA Hospital's Mental Health Service at (708) 202-2803 or (708) 202-8387, ext. 22803.

3. Educate yourself: Understanding the signs and symptoms of PTSD can help you provide better support. Poor sleeping habits, feeling on edge and substance abuse, among others, can be signs of PTSD. I encourage everyone to visit www.ptsd.va.gov or the National Institute of Mental Health website to learn more about recognizing this affliction.

Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor the fallen, but we can show our living veterans that their sacrifices are not forgotten, and we stand with them in their journey toward healing.

In their honor and memory, let us work together to create a future where no veteran feels alone in their struggle. This Memorial Day, and every day, let's pledge to be there for those who have given so much for us.