Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) rates are extremely
high among veterans across the United States. Soldiers coming home from war
often have a difficult time transitioning back into civilian life because of
the physical and psychological trauma that they experience while deployed. PTSD is also
a significant factor contributing to homelessness among veterans, as the scars
of combat lead to difficulties in maintaining stable relationships, employment, and
housing.
The Link Between
PTSD and Homelessness
Studies indicate that veterans are disproportionately
represented in the homeless population, with PTSD playing a critical role. The
American Psychology Association reports that about two-thirds of homeless Iraq
and Afghanistan veterans suffer from PTSD, an enormous leap from the 8%-13%
rates of the disorder in earlier veteran cohorts.
The situation in Portland echoes these national trends. The Portland Rescue Mission notes that over the course of about three years, veterans struggling with PTSD often encounter employment difficulties, a decay in their supportive relationships, and an increase in substance abuse. These factors create a dangerous pathway to homelessness.
Local Efforts to
Address the Crisis
There are several organizations in Portland that are
dedicated to assisting homeless veterans grappling with PTSD. Do Good Multnomah
is a nonprofit organization that partners with community organizers to provide
permanent supportive housing and low-barrier emergency shelters to homeless
veterans. They are dedicated to improving the lives of our veterans,
emphasizing relationship-building and individualized support through their
programs. The VA Portland Health Care System offers a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Clinical Team (PCT) involving therapists, doctors, and chaplains who specialize
in assessing, diagnosing, and treating PTSD among veterans. Additionally, the
Portland Vet Center provides confidential counseling for veterans and their
families to address issues such as depression and PTSD. They work with the VA
and the local community to connect veterans with additional support.
How to Help
Veterans in Your Community
Addressing PTSD among homeless veterans requires effort from
a supportive community, and there are many ways you can contribute.
Volunteering your time and skills to organizations like Do Good Multnomah
supports their programs and services and connects you with people in need of
caring relationships. Furthermore, donations to local nonprofits enable them to
expand their reach and provide essential services to veterans in need. At the
very least, raising awareness about the challenges faced by veterans with PTSD
can help to enhance mental health services and housing solutions.
Countless veterans put their lives on the line in the interest of protecting our communities, and it’s time we return the favor. By uniting as a community, we can ensure that those who have served our country receive the support and care they deserve, creating a future where no veteran is left without a home.
Sources:
https://portlandrescuemission.org/news/about-homelessness/the-new-wave-of-veteran-homeless/
https://www.dogoodmultnomah.org/
https://www.va.gov/portland-health-care/programs/ptsd-clinical-team-pct/
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