Common Obstacles That Keep Soldiers From Receiving Mental Health Assistance
One of the biggest issues in the United States Armed Forces today is the mental health of service members. Mental health is a topic that has long been overlooked and oftentimes untreated in the military. Many veterans and military personnel suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and other issues related to their service, and there are many common obstacles to getting timely and quality mental health assistance.
Stigma
The first and biggest obstacle that often keeps soldiers from seeking mental health assistance is the stigma surrounding mental health. Service members are expected to be strong, resilient, and able to handle anything that comes their way. As such, seeking out mental health assistance often carries a negative connotation, and many do not want to be seen as weak or unable to manage their issues alone. This stigma makes it very difficult for many soldiers to reach out and seek the help they need.
Accessibility
When it comes to accessing services, many military personnel find that they are not able to get the help they need. Military bases often do not have adequate mental health resources, and the resources that are available are often limited or hard to access. There is also the issue of transportation, as many soldiers live in remote or rural areas and may not have easy access to mental health care. In addition, long hours and deployments can make it difficult for soldiers to find the time they need to access services.
Cost
Another main obstacle that keeps soldiers from receiving the mental health assistance they need is the cost of care. Mental health services can be expensive, and many military personnel and veterans do not have the financial resources to cover the costs. Even when services are covered by health insurance, there can be high co-pays and other out-of-pocket costs that are too much for some service members.
Conclusion
The mental health of servicemembers is a critical issue that needs to be addressed in the military. However, there are several common obstacles that keep many soldiers from receiving the help that they need. These include stigma, lack of accessibility, and high costs. If the military is committed to taking care of its members, it is important that these obstacles are addressed and that mental health services are made more accessible and affordable.