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DBMHS remembers and honors those individuals that have given the ultimate sacrifice while serving our Nation. In addition, DBMHS supports and encourage active duty, veterans, and their families to live not only a physically healthy lifestyle, but an emotional, mental, and spiritual healthy life as well. If you need help or if you know someone who needs help, services are available through the Navajo Division of Behavioral and Mental Health Services.
After 9/11, almost 19% of Native Americans served in the Armed Forces, compared to 14% of other ethnicities. Post-Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur after the Veteran experiences a traumatic event. According to We Honor Veterans, “During this type of event, the Veteran believes his/her life or others’ lives are in danger. She/he may feel afraid or feel that they have no control over what is happening.”
In a 2012 survey by the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, 76% of veterans claimed that they did not seek help for their mental health conditions because they feared their confession would either hurt their careers or that they would be judged by their peers. Together we can break the stigma and provide those in the military and their families a safe environment to seek help. Please, let’s not forget about our veterans and remember to check on your love ones.
If you or someone you know needs help, please talk to someone. 1-800-273-8255 | suicidepreventionlifeline.org