The Veterans Mental Health Twitter Chat Happening Today

As we reflect on the sacrifice that military veterans and their families have made to defend the United States, we need to remind ourselves that the war does not end once they arrive safely home. Approximately 17 US veterans per day fall victim to suicide as they lose the war against their mental health disorders.

Tomorrow, as a country, we will recognize these men and women, their families, and we will remember and honor their sacrifice, but as mental health providers and clinicians, this recognition is not a once-a-year event. As approximately 41% of all veterans struggle with mental health disorders, it is important to remain vigilant about their treatment.

Today, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM EST, the American Psychiatric Association (@APAPsychiatric), the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (@PsychFoundation), and the VA Boston Healthcare System (@VABostonHC) will co-host the Veterans Mental Health Twitter Chat to focus on “serious mental health issues among this community and cover topics such as suicide, PTSD, misconceptions around mental health, addiction, and resources available to veterans and their families.” This Chat is a way to have a more open conversation about the mental health struggles our veterans face and allow a less formal space for discussion.

To join the Veterans Mental Health Twitter Chat, use the hashtag #VetsMentalHealthChat and join other psychiatrists and representatives of veterans’ support organizations to discuss mental health facts and possible solutions regarding this crisis affecting our veterans.

As leaders in the mental health community, treating military veterans is an honor and duty that is shared to help lighten their burden, and allow not just a physical reunion with loved ones, but offer them safe mental passage home to their families and communities.

Happy Veterans Day Psych Congress Network. And please join this important discussion happening today on Twitter between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM EST using the hashtag #VetsMentalHealthChat.

Reference

Twitter Chat to Focus on Veterans Mental Health. News release. American Psychiatric Association. November 9, 2021. Accessed November 10, 2021.