The holiday season is often a time for joy and celebration. However, for veterans, it can be a time of sadness and depression. This is because the holidays can be a reminder of the losses they have experienced, both during and after their service.

Veterans are at increased risk for depression for a number of reasons. They may have experienced trauma during their service, such as combat or witnessing death. They may also be dealing with the physical and emotional effects of injuries. Additionally, veterans may have difficulty adjusting to civilian life, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

The holidays can exacerbate these feelings of depression. Veterans may be reminded of loved ones they have lost in combat or to suicide. They may also feel pressure to be happy and festive, even if they are not feeling that way.

If you are a veteran who is struggling with depression during the holiday season, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are many things you can do to cope with your depression and to make the holiday season more enjoyable.

Here are some tips:

• Talk to someone you trust. Talking to a friend, family member, therapist, or other trusted person can help you to feel less alone and to process your emotions.
• Take care of yourself. Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and exercise regularly. These things can help to improve your mood and your overall well-being.
• Set realistic expectations. Don’t try to do too much or to be too perfect during the holidays. It’s okay to say no to invitations and to take some time for yourself.
• Find healthy ways to cope with stress. Avoid using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress. Instead, try healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, yoga, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
• Reach out for help if you need it. If you are feeling overwhelmed or suicidal, please reach out to a crisis hotline or mental health professional.

There are also a number of resources available specifically for veterans who are struggling with depression. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a variety of services, including counseling, support groups, and medication. Additionally, there are a number of non-profit organizations that provide support to veterans and their families.

• A study by the National Center for PTSD found that 20% of veterans have major depression.
• A study by the VA found that veterans are twice as likely to commit suicide as non-veterans.
• A study by the RAND Corporation found that veterans are more likely to experience depression than civilians, even after controlling for other factors such as age, gender, and income.
• A study by the University of Michigan found that veterans with PTSD are more likely to experience depression than veterans without PTSD.
• A study by the VA found that female veterans are more likely to experience depression than male veterans.

These studies suggest that veterans are at increased risk for depression for a number of reasons. Some of the factors that may contribute to veterans’ increased risk for depression include:

• Exposure to trauma during service
• Physical and emotional effects of injuries
• Difficulty adjusting to civilian life
• Social isolation and loneliness
• Substance abuse
• Financial problems

The holiday season can exacerbate these factors and lead to increased feelings of depression in veterans and can be a difficult time for veterans, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many people who care about you and want to support you. If you are struggling with depression, please reach out for help. There are many resources available to you:

Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) resources:

• VA Mental Health Services: This website provides information on VA mental health services, including counseling, support groups, and medication.
• VA Vet Centers: Vet Centers provide counseling and support services to veterans and their families.
• VA Crisis Hotline: If you are feeling suicidal or in crisis, please call the VA Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.
• Here’s how you can connect with a Veterans Crisis Line responder, anytime day or night:
  • Call 988 and select 1.
  • Text 838255.
  • If you have hearing loss, call TTY: 800-799-4889.

Non-profit organization resources:

• Wounded Warrior Project: The Wounded Warrior Project offers a variety of services to veterans and their families, including counseling, support groups, and employment assistance.
• Headstrong: Headstrong is a non-profit organization that provides free mental health care services to veterans.
• Vets4Warriors: Vets4Warriors is a non-profit organization that provides support to veterans and their families, including counseling, support groups, and financial assistance.
• Project Healing Waters: Project Healing Waters is a non-profit organization that provides fly fishing instruction and support to veterans.