- 2021-01-26
- Campaign
Let’s talk about supporting Veteran mental health
Through their service, sacrifices and strength, Veterans and their families have always played a key role in supporting Canadians.
Now, it’s time for us all to be there for Veterans and Veteran Family Members.
Did you know?
- About 1/5 of Canadian Veterans experience a diagnosed mental health disorder at some time during their lives1.
- Up to 10% of Veterans in Canada will experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), while others may experience at least some of the associated symptoms2.
- Nearly 1 in 5 Canadian Forces spouses surveyed in 2008/2009 reported being diagnosed with depression at some point during their partner’s military career3
This is why we believe it’s important to talk about and support Veteran mental health.
This Thursday, Jan. 28, is Bell Let’s Talk Day. As conversations about mental health take place all day long across the country, we invite you to be there in support of our country’s protectors and first responders. Be there for:
- Yourself: For Veterans and Veteran Family Members, it’s vital to practise self-care and take care of your own mental health as you support others.
- Each other: The foundation of military and Veteran culture is built on helping others, and that extends to family members and service providers. As a community, we need to surround all of these individuals with supports and services.
- Your people: We call on our leaders to ensure adequate supports are available for all Veterans, first responders, and their families, at a systematic and individual level.
Don’t forget: Participate in Bell Let’s Talk Day by talking, texting, tweeting and engaging on social media and help raise funds for mental health and wellness programs in support of Canadian Armed Forces active members, Veterans, and their families.
Need support?
You are not alone. Support is available if you need it. If you are in crisis, please call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room. Talk to your doctor or health care provider, or contact a Veteran mental health specialist at 1-800-268-7708. For more information on crisis services, financial assistance, PTSD, COVID-19 and moral injury, visit https://atlasveterans.ca/
Sources:
- Veterans Affairs Canada. Understanding mental health.
- Veterans Affairs Canada. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and war-related stress.
- Sudom, K. Quality of Life among Military Families: Results from the 2008/2009 Survey of Canadian Forces Spouses.
