Homeless Veterans Essay

“Only 28.5 percent of Americans with identifiable mental illness seek services annually,” and of those 28.5% only 11% were receiving the necessary medication (Rosenheck). The veteran population is more likely to experience traumatic brain injuries and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) which are one of the most substantial risk factors for homelessness (Fact Sheet: Veteran Homelessness). Not only are many non-veterans not seeking medical treatment for their mental illnesses, but many veterans as well are also not seeking the same treatment. This is apparent since there are 50% of homeless veterans who have a serious mental illness, which is not including those who have a mental illness that is not as apparent or life altering. Likewise, there are also 51% of homeless veterans living with a variety of disabilities, and 70% of

Most importantly, since 2005, over 70% of homeless veterans have been placed in homes, where they have the necessities, “secure housing, nutritional meals, basic physical health care, substance abuse care and aftercare, mental health counseling, personal development and empowerment… job assessment training and placement assistance” (FAQ about Homeless Veterans). Consequently, with the change of emphasis of health care service from medical specialist to primary care providers, there has been improvement of access to general and specialty services which are available to patients with and without disabling mental illnesses (Rosenheck). Whereas, more information is required to comprehend how mental injuries, such as Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries, affect certain individuals. Overall, it is important to focus on each veterans ability to care for themselves, rather than specifically on their mental health alone