Lyla Lindsey
California is home to a significant number of veterans who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2001, between 1.9 and 3 million service members have been deployed to these conflict zones, with many bearing physical and psychological injuries. Over 1.8 million veterans from these wars have some degree of officially recognised disability, and California is likely to be home to a substantial number of them. The exact number of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in California is unclear, but their presence and needs are undoubtedly felt across the state.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of deployments | 52% of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans had one deployment |
| Some veterans had five or more deployments | |
| Number of service members deployed since 2001 | Between 1.9 and 3 million |
| Number of amputees | 1,286 |
| Number of veterans with officially recognised disability | Over 1.8 million |
| Unemployment rate | 12.1% |
| Members of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) | 425,000+ |
What You'll Learn
Mental health and suicide prevention
California's Iraq and Afghanistan veterans face a range of mental health challenges, with a high prevalence of emerging mental health disorders. These include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorders, military sexual trauma, and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Untreated mental health issues can lead to unemployment, criminal justice involvement, and an increased risk of suicide.
To address these issues, California has taken several steps to improve mental health and suicide prevention for its veterans. The state recognizes the need for specialized training and certification in suicide prevention for those working with military-connected populations. As a result, Los Angeles and Nevada Counties have created a veteran suicide prevention training pilot program. This program aims to offer individuals the necessary tools to identify indicators of elevated suicide risk and provide emergency crisis intervention and referrals for veterans.
On a national level, various organizations and hotlines provide mental health resources and support specifically for veterans. The Veterans Crisis Line, for example, offers 24/7 confidential support for veterans and their loved ones. Additionally, the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is a nonprofit organization that provides resources and community support for post-9/11 veterans. IAVA offers a range of services, including non-partisan advocacy, data-driven research, transition assistance, and community-building events.
Furthermore, the VA offers mental health services for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), psychological effects of military sexual trauma (MST), depression, grief, anxiety, and other needs. These services are accessible regardless of discharge status, service history, or eligibility for VA health care. Over 1.7 million veterans received mental health services from the VA in the previous year, and the organization provides various treatment options, including peer support, counseling, therapy, and medication.
To conclude, California and the United States as a whole have implemented several initiatives to address the mental health needs and suicide prevention for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. These include state-level programs, national hotlines, nonprofit organizations, and VA mental health services. These resources aim to provide support, treatment, and community for veterans struggling with mental health issues.
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Veterans' unemployment
Veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars face a unique set of challenges when returning to civilian life. Many suffer from physical and psychological injuries that can make it difficult to secure employment. Over 1.8 million veterans have some degree of officially recognised disability, and those who have served in these wars account for more than half of the severely disabled veteran population.
The unemployment rate for veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars has been higher than the national average. In 2010, the unemployment rate for these veterans was 11.5%, compared to 9.1% for Americans nationwide. This figure has been rising; in 2007, it was 6.1%, and in 2009, it was 10.2%.
Young veterans, in particular, face higher unemployment rates than their older counterparts. In 2010, the unemployment rate for veterans aged 18-24 was 20.9%, compared to 11.7% before the 2007 recession. However, it is important to note that older workers generally experience longer periods of unemployment. The median duration of unemployment for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans is shorter, at 17.8 weeks, compared to 31 weeks for veterans of previous wars.
Education also plays a role in the unemployment rate among veterans. Veterans with a bachelor's degree or higher have lower unemployment rates. In 2010, veterans aged 25 and older with a bachelor's degree had an unemployment rate of 4.1%, while those with some college or an associate degree had a rate of 10%, and high school graduates had a rate of 11.5%.
While the unemployment rate for veterans has been a cause for concern, various organisations like the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) provide resources and support to help veterans transition to civilian life and secure employment. IAVA offers a Rapid Response Referral Program (RRRP) that connects veterans with resources related to health, financial, housing, legal, and employment issues. Additionally, the Veterans Employment and Training Service provides job referral, job training, and job placement assistance to veterans through the Virginia Employment Commission (VEC). These initiatives aim to address the challenges faced by veterans in finding employment and ensure they have the necessary support during their transition.
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Veterans' homelessness
California is home to around a third of the nation's homeless veterans. The state has spent billions of dollars on housing for former military service members since 9/11, yet the number of homeless veterans has remained steady for almost a decade.
Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan face a unique set of challenges. Many suffer from physical and psychological injuries, with over 1.8 million veterans having some degree of officially recognised disability. They also face elevated rates of suicide and mental illness, drug and alcohol dependence, car crashes, and homelessness. The transition from military to civilian life can be extremely difficult, especially for those with physical or mental disabilities.
In California, the state government has recognised the need to address veteran homelessness and has invested significant resources into creating housing specifically for former military service members. However, despite these efforts, the number of homeless veterans in the state has remained relatively unchanged in recent years.
To address this issue, Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed a shift in strategy, focusing on veterans with serious mental health conditions. This plan includes setting aside funding specifically for veterans with serious behavioural health issues, recognising that mental health challenges are a significant contributing factor to homelessness.
Nonprofit organisations like Swords to Plowshares and U.S. Vets also play a crucial role in supporting homeless veterans in California. These organisations provide transitional housing and help veterans access resources and build community connections. They recognise the importance of peer support and work to ensure that veterans have a sense of belonging and assistance in navigating the challenges of civilian life.
Overall, while California has made substantial efforts to address veteran homelessness, the issue persists and requires continued attention and innovative solutions. By prioritising mental health support and community-oriented programs, there is hope that the state can make significant strides in reducing veteran homelessness and providing much-needed assistance to those who have served their country.
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Veterans' physical health
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging for veterans, and their physical health can be affected. Veterans may face a steep drop in physical activity, leading to a rise in obesity and related health conditions. They may also suffer from physical injuries such as chronic pain and traumatic brain injuries.
To promote physical health among veterans, community-based physical activity programs can play a crucial role. These programs can help veterans maintain an active lifestyle and improve their overall well-being. It is important to tailor these programs to the specific needs of veterans, considering factors such as their service era, age, type of illness or injury, and gender. For example, a noisy gym may not be suitable for a veteran with post-traumatic stress. Including military peers in these programs can provide a sense of belonging and valuable peer support.
The Wounded Warrior Project's Physical Health & Wellness program empowers warriors to make long-term changes toward a healthier life through movement, nutritional education, coaching, goal-setting, and skill-building. The multi-week Coaching Program helps warriors develop an active lifestyle and better nutrition habits through various activities and challenges.
Veterans Affairs (VA) also offers health and wellness programs to support veterans' physical health. These programs provide information, resources, and treatment options to help veterans stay healthy, including weight management programs, exercise initiatives, and nutritional guidance. VA facilities also offer rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy, to address physical injuries and improve veterans' quality of life.
Additionally, family physicians play a crucial role in addressing the physical health needs of veterans. By assessing patients' military service history, physicians can identify common injuries and illnesses, such as musculoskeletal injuries, and provide appropriate care. This includes screening for mental health issues, such as PTSD, depression, and suicidality, which often coexist with physical health concerns.
Overall, supporting veterans' physical health requires a holistic approach that addresses their unique needs and promotes their broader well-being.
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Veterans' transition to civilian life
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging for veterans. While most say it was very or somewhat easy, about one-quarter say it was at least somewhat difficult. This number rises to 44% for veterans who served in the ten years since the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
There are several factors that can make the transition more difficult. Veterans who have had emotionally traumatic experiences while in the military, suffered serious injuries, or experienced post-traumatic stress are more likely to have a challenging time. Additionally, those who served in a combat zone, knew someone who was killed or injured, or were married while serving may also face a more difficult transition.
To help with the transition, veterans can take advantage of various resources and support systems. Here are some tips for a successful transition:
- Attend a Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Workshop: TAP offers a three-day workshop that covers job-search strategies, resume and cover letter preparation, and interview skills.
- Think about transferable skills: Consider how your military experiences and skills can be applied to civilian roles. For example, if you trained people in the military, you could apply those skills to a corporate training role.
- Find military-friendly employers: Some employers actively recruit former military personnel and have networking groups to help ease the transition.
- Adjust your language: Avoid using military jargon and time formats when applying for civilian jobs. Instead of saying "15-hundred hours," use "3 p.m."
- Connect with recruiters and headhunters specializing in military-to-civilian transitions: These professionals can help match your skills and experience with suitable civilian roles.
- Play up your strengths: Military veterans are known for their precise communication, individual accountability, and natural leadership. Showcase these strengths during the interview process.
- Network: Reach out to veterans who have already transitioned to civilian careers and ask them about their experiences. Don't be afraid to ask for advice and guidance.
In addition to these tips, it's important to be mindful of your mental health during the transition. Conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression are common among veterans. Seeking treatment for these conditions can make a big difference in easing the transition to civilian life.
Overall, transitioning from military to civilian life can be a challenging process, but with the right resources, support, and mindset, veterans can successfully navigate this new phase of their lives.
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Frequently asked questions
Between 1.9 and 3 million US service members have served in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001.
There are over 425,000 members of the Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) organisation.
IAVA is a nonprofit organisation founded by Iraq War veteran Paul Rieckhoff. Its mission is to provide resources and community for post-9/11 veterans.
Many Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans face physical and psychological injuries, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and respiratory issues. They also face higher rates of suicide, mental illness, substance abuse, homelessness, and unemployment compared to the general population.
