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Military Veterans Share Struggles with Mental Health

Active-duty personnel and military veterans are increasingly candid about their battles with mental health, urging others in similar situations to seek the necessary support they deserve.

One such individual is Adam Moore, who began his military journey as a young teenager. His service commenced in the reserves, where he quickly faced the challenges of injury.

“I started my career as a reservist and injured my left knee during that time. Unfortunately, I did not receive any help due to my age,” Moore recounted.

After six years in the reserves, he joined the armoured unit of the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians). However, he found that this decision did not improve his mental well-being.

“A sergeant major once told me he doesn’t believe in mental health.”

Throughout his service, Moore grappled with physical injuries and the pressure of embodying the “hero” image, feeling unworthy of such a label compared to others.

“I didn’t do anything particularly extraordinary; I just participated in typical responses to fires and floods,” Moore explained. “Consequently, I was aware I needed help, but I felt there were others more deserving of support.”

“I felt like I was taking resources away from those who needed them more, especially since options are already so limited.”

After leaving the military, Moore continued to face struggles with his mental health.

“Exiting the army, I felt completely lost. I didn’t have a plan, and when COVID hit, things spiraled further out of control, leading to a divorce and a cascade of challenges in my life,” he shared.

For many veterans, the fight against mental health issues often happens in silence and isolation. This sentiment was echoed by Moore when he said, “It’s incredibly difficult to acknowledge and admit to oneself that you are not okay.”

Kevin Roth, a seasoned sailor aboard the HMCS Vancouver and a veteran of the Afghanistan conflict, described the inner turmoil he faced, emphasizing the severity of his experiences.

“There have been times in my journey where I contemplated suicide.”

Roth understands the harsh reality that not everyone successfully navigates these mental battles.

“Many don’t make it, and sadly, some lose their fight against mental illness and suicide. I certainly found myself on that path as well,” he admitted.

He underscored that grappling with mental health issues often begins long before individuals are prepared to acknowledge their struggles.

“The hardest part is accepting the reality that you are in need of help; it’s a lengthy and challenging process,” Roth remarked. “Reaching out is crucial, and admitting, ‘I’m hurting and I need help’ is the most difficult step.”

For some veterans, transitioning back to civilian life can precipitate significant challenges. Jason Trenholm, who also served with the Lord Strathcona’s Horse (Royal Canadians), faced an identity crisis after leaving the military at the age of 21.

“I was really struggling with the thought of no longer being a soldier; I questioned my identity.”

Although he secured employment after his service, Trenholm felt unfulfilled, craving a sense of purpose.

“I found a good job, but it just didn’t feel meaningful to me anymore,” he said.

Currently, he is engaged with OSI-CAN, assisting veterans and first responders in sharing their experiences as a form of healing.

This type of peer support has been instrumental in Moore’s journey as well.

“It’s incredibly tiring, and at times, it feels impossible to keep pushing forward. If it weren’t for friends who had begun to seek help themselves, I don’t know if I would have been able to continue,” Moore reflected.

Nevertheless, Trenholm recognizes the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health that prevents many individuals from reaching out.

“There is an acknowledgment of struggle, yet many wear a facade. They know they’re having a hard time, but often feel pressured to maintain the hero image that society bestows upon them,” Trenholm explained.

Roth aims to challenge this stigma, positioning himself as a source of hope for those hesitant to speak out.

“I try to be an example of why we must support our peers,” Roth stated.

Despite the emotional turmoil that many veterans face, Trenholm and his peers deliver a powerful message to anyone grappling with despair:

“Stay hopeful and practice gratitude. Recognizing the good in your life can instill a sense of understanding and perspective, even in the midst of struggle,” Trenholm advised.

If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help, resources are available. In case of an emergency, please call 911 for immediate help.

For immediate mental health support, call 988. For a directory of support services in your area, visit the Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention at suicideprevention.ca.

Learn more about preventing suicide with these warning signs and tips on how to help.

Source
globalnews.ca