Many military personnel come back from war with mental illnesses. These include Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome, anxiety, and substance abuse. An article from The American Psychiatric Association states, "Stress encountered in service abroad can play a role in mental health issues." (http://www.psychiatry.org/military) Soldiers often are required to give up a lot while fighting on the battlefield and in many cases their mental health suffers as well.

Upon returning from duty, many soldiers refuse help from therapists because they believe it will negatively affect their careers. The author of the article writes, "Only 38% of U.S. adults with diagnosable mental illnesses received needed treatment." (http://www.psychiatry.org/military) It is unfortunate that many soldiers do not receive the support and treatment they need because "With effective treatment, 70-90% of individuals with mental illness achieve an improved quality of life." (http://www.psychiatry.org/military)

Soldiers' mental health issues not only affect themselves but also the environment around them. Many children of military personnel suffer from higher emotional and behavioral problems and soldiers' marriages may suffer also. "Their spouse can feel overwhelmed by having to deal with both roles of the parents. When a soldier reenters the family, it can be stressful because of the separation of the family. Young children may be afraid of the new person living with them or any disability received while the soldier was serving can interfere with the activities of the family." (http://family.lovetoknow.com/effects-war-military-families)

The soldiers have a choice to make between keeping their emotional struggles to themselves or getting the help they need with their situations. There are resources that servicemen/women can access to receive help, but they do not always accept the support. Some examples of treatments would be finding a support group or person that can relate to their situation, going to a mental health care facility, accessing Veteran Administration services, or even using online sources to learn about mental illness.

Many organizations and individuals offer support to military veterans, but some still refuse or are unable to get help. How can the government better aid and support emotionally unstable veterans? How can we make their life after the service easier and reduce stress when reentering society? We as a society have a responsibility to those protecting and serving our country. Joshua 1:9 encourages those who are suffering, "... Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."