The Negative Stigma of Mental Health in the Military: A Look at Alcohol Abuse and Suicidality in U.S. Combat Veterans

The Negative Stigma of Mental Health in the Military: A Look at Alcohol Abuse and Suicidality in U.S. Combat Veterans

by

C.T. Sorrentino, LtCol, USAF (Ret)

MS, EdS, LPC, NCC

Mental health challenges among U.S. combat veterans have long been a pressing issue. Despite increased awareness in recent years, stigma surrounding mental health persists within military culture, contributing to significant struggles like alcohol abuse and suicidality. This article delves into the interplay of these issues, exploring how stigma, culture, and systemic barriers exacerbate the mental health crisis among veterans.

The Military Culture and Mental Health Stigma

Military culture often emphasizes toughness, resilience, and self-reliance. While these traits are essential for the high-stress demands of combat, they can inadvertently discourage service members from seeking help for mental health concerns. Admitting to emotional or psychological struggles is often perceived as a weakness, conflicting with the “never quit” mentality ingrained in military training.

This stigma has profound consequences. Veterans may hesitate to access mental health care for fear of being judged, ostracized, or seen as less capable by their peers or superiors. Additionally, many worry about potential career ramifications, such as being deemed unfit for duty or losing security clearances. These fears can prevent early intervention, allowing conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety to worsen.

The Role of Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol often becomes a coping mechanism for veterans dealing with unaddressed mental health issues. Social drinking is normalized in military culture, making it a readily available outlet for managing stress, anxiety, and trauma. However, this normalization can escalate into dependency or addiction, particularly for combat veterans who experience severe psychological stress.

The link between alcohol abuse and mental health is cyclical. Excessive drinking can exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety, impair judgment, and hinder emotional regulation. It also undermines efforts to engage in therapeutic interventions, as alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of prescribed treatments.

The Tragic Connection to Suicidality

The combination of mental health stigma and substance abuse significantly increases the risk of suicide among U.S. combat veterans. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), veterans are at a 57% higher risk of suicide than non-veteran adults in the U.S., with an average of 17 veterans dying by suicide each day.

Factors contributing to suicidality include:

• Untreated mental health disorders, such as PTSD and depression.

• The isolating effects of stigma, which prevent veterans from seeking connection or support.

• Impaired decision-making caused by alcohol abuse.

• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or shame stemming from combat experiences.

Many veterans face difficulties reintegrating into civilian life, leading to a loss of purpose, financial struggles, or strained relationships—all of which compound their mental health challenges.

Addressing the Crisis

Efforts to combat this crisis must focus on reducing stigma, increasing access to care, and promoting healthy coping mechanisms. Some strategies include:

1. Cultural Shifts Within the Military

Leaders play a crucial role in normalizing conversations about mental health. By openly discussing their struggles and encouraging help-seeking behavior, they can dismantle the perception that seeking help is a sign of weakness.

2. Improved Access to Mental Health Services

Expanding VA resources, increasing telehealth options, and partnering with community organizations can ensure that veterans have timely access to care.

3. Comprehensive Screening and Education

Mandatory mental health screenings during and after service can help identify issues early. Additionally, educating service members about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of mental health care can foster a healthier culture.

4. Peer Support Programs

Veterans often feel most comfortable discussing their experiences with others who understand military life. Peer support groups and mentorship programs can provide a safe space for connection and healing.

5. Reducing Barriers to Treatment

Policies that protect career advancement and confidentiality for those seeking mental health care can alleviate fears and encourage early intervention.

Conclusions

The stigma surrounding mental health in the military, coupled with the prevalence of alcohol abuse, creates a perfect storm for suicidality among U.S. combat veterans. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes cultural change, accessible care, and community support. By dismantling the barriers that prevent veterans from seeking help, society can honor their service by ensuring they receive the care and understanding they deserve.

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Why the Department of Veterans Affairs Is Broken and The Impact on U.S. Veterans Today

Why the Department of Veterans Affairs Is Broken and The Impact on U.S. Veterans Today

by

C.T. Sorrentino, LtCol, USAF (Ret)

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) mission is to serve as the cornerstone of support for millions of U.S. veterans. Established to provide essential healthcare, benefits, and services to those who have served, the VA’s mission is one of honor and necessity. However, the department has long been plagued by systemic issues that hinder its ability to fulfill this mission effectively. From bureaucratic inefficiencies to inadequate funding and a backlog of claims, the VA's challenges profoundly affect the well-being of veterans and their families. This article explores the structural problems within the VA, the impact on veterans today, and potential pathways for reform.

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A Historical Perspective on the VA

To understand the VA’s current state, it is essential to explore its origins and evolution. The VA's roots trace back to 1930 when it was established as a federal agency. Over the decades, the department’s responsibilities have grown significantly, particularly in the aftermath of major conflicts such as World War II, the Vietnam War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Each surge in the veteran population brought increased demands for medical care, disability benefits, and support services.

Despite its noble intentions, the VA has often struggled to adapt to the evolving needs of veterans. Historically, the department has been criticized for:

• Inadequate planning for post-war surges: Following major conflicts, the VA has frequently been unprepared to manage the influx of veterans seeking care and benefits. This was evident after Vietnam and, more recently, during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars.

• Outdated infrastructure: Many VA facilities date back decades and lack the modern resources necessary to provide efficient and effective care.

• Inefficient bureaucracy: Layers of red tape have long been a hallmark of the VA, making it difficult for veterans to navigate the system and access the services they need.

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Key Issues Plaguing the VA

1. Healthcare Access and Quality

The VA operates one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States, serving millions of veterans annually. While some veterans praise the quality of care they receive, access remains a significant issue:

• Appointment Wait Times: Despite reforms such as the Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014, many veterans still face lengthy waits for appointments. Delays in care can lead to worsening health conditions, particularly for those with chronic illnesses or mental health needs.

• Mental Health Services: The mental health crisis among veterans is a pressing concern, with high rates of PTSD, depression, and suicide. Although the VA offers mental health programs, many veterans report difficulty accessing timely and consistent care.

• Staffing Shortages: The VA struggles to recruit and retain healthcare professionals, resulting in understaffed facilities that cannot meet the demand for services. Burnout among existing staff further exacerbates this issue.

2. Disability Claims Backlog

The VA disability claims process has long been criticized for its inefficiency and complexity. Veterans seeking compensation for service-connected injuries or illnesses often face:

• Prolonged Wait Times: The claims backlog—defined as claims pending for more than 125 days—remains a persistent issue. Delays in processing claims leave veterans without the financial support they need to address medical and living expenses.

• Appeals Process Bottlenecks: For veterans who dispute the VA’s decisions, the appeals process can take years, compounding their financial and emotional stress.

• Complex Eligibility Criteria: The disability rating system is often seen as opaque and inconsistent, leading to frustration and confusion among veterans.

3. Technological Deficiencies

The VA’s reliance on outdated technology hinders its ability to deliver efficient services. Issues include:

• Inefficient Recordkeeping: Although the VA has made strides toward digitizing records, many veterans’ files remain in paper format, slowing down claims processing and inter-agency coordination.

• System Integration Challenges: The VA’s systems often fail to integrate seamlessly with other federal agencies, such as the Department of Defense, leading to delays in transferring critical information.

• Cybersecurity Risks: As the VA modernizes its technology, it faces growing concerns about protecting veterans’ sensitive information from cyber threats.

4. Cultural and Leadership Challenges

Leadership and organizational culture significantly influence the VA’s effectiveness. Persistent issues include:

• Accountability Problems: Despite efforts to improve oversight, instances of mismanagement and misconduct continue to surface. High-profile scandals, such as the 2014 Phoenix VA scandal, have eroded trust in the department.

• Resistance to Change: The VA’s entrenched bureaucratic culture often resists reform, making it difficult to implement innovative solutions or respond swiftly to emerging challenges.

• Morale and Employee Satisfaction: Low morale among VA employees, driven by excessive workloads and systemic inefficiencies, affects the quality of care and services provided.

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Impact on U.S. Veterans

The systemic issues within the VA have far-reaching consequences for veterans, many of whom rely on the department for essential services. Key impacts include:

1. Physical and Mental Health Outcomes

Veterans who face delays in accessing healthcare or disability benefits often experience worsening health conditions. For example:

• Chronic Illness Management: Untreated or poorly managed chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, can lead to severe complications.

• Mental Health Crises: The inability to access timely mental health care contributes to high rates of veteran suicide, estimated at 22 per day according to recent reports.

2. Financial Hardship

Delays in disability claims processing and inadequate support services leave many veterans struggling financially. Homelessness among veterans remains a significant issue, with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimating that over 30,000 veterans experience homelessness on any given night.

3. Erosion of Trust

Failures within the VA undermine veterans’ trust in the system designed to support them. This erosion of trust can discourage veterans from seeking help, further exacerbating their challenges.

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Steps Toward Reform

While the VA’s challenges are substantial, they are not insurmountable. Comprehensive reform will require a multi-faceted approach, including:

1. Modernizing Technology

Investing in state-of-the-art technology is critical to improving efficiency and transparency. Priorities should include:

• Electronic Health Records (EHR): Fully integrating the VA’s EHR system with the Department of Defense to streamline records transfer.

• Data Analytics: Leveraging advanced analytics to identify trends, predict needs, and allocate resources more effectively.

• Cybersecurity Enhancements: Protecting sensitive data from cyber threats through robust security measures.

2. Increasing Staffing and Resources

Addressing staffing shortages and ensuring adequate funding are essential. Strategies include:

• Competitive Compensation: Offering salaries and benefits that attract top talent, particularly in high-demand fields like mental health and primary care.

• Training and Development: Providing ongoing professional development to equip staff with the skills needed to meet veterans’ needs.

• Expanding Partnerships: Collaborating with private healthcare providers to reduce wait times and improve access to care.

3. Streamlining Bureaucracy

Reducing red tape and simplifying processes can make the VA more responsive. This includes:

• Simplified Claims Processes: Redesigning the claims system to make it more user-friendly and transparent.

• Decentralized Decision-Making: Empowering local VA offices to address issues more efficiently without excessive oversight.

4. Enhancing Accountability and Oversight

Improved oversight mechanisms can help rebuild trust and ensure that resources are used effectively. Key measures include:

• Independent Audits: Conducting regular, independent audits of VA operations to identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement.

• Whistleblower Protections: Encouraging employees to report misconduct without fear of retaliation.

5. Expanding Outreach and Support

Proactive outreach can help ensure that veterans are aware of and able to access the services they need. Strategies include:

• Community Engagement: Partnering with local organizations and veterans’ groups to provide education and support.

• Telehealth Expansion: Leveraging telehealth technology to reach veterans in remote or underserved areas, not by substituting remote healthcare for in-person treatment.

6. Trust in the VA

In 2024, 80.2% of veterans using VA services said they trust the VA as opposed to 2023 when 90% of veterans who received care said they trusted the VA. 

Unfortunately, since the pandemic, the percentages of VA providers working remotely from home has decreased very little and veterans are expected to receive much of their care through tele-health rather than being seen, face-to-face, by a provider. A healthcare system cannot be run remotely, veterans need and deserve the very best care and that means VA employees need to return to their offices.

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Conclusions

The Department of Veterans Affairs was founded on the promise of honoring the sacrifices of U.S. veterans by providing them with the care and support they deserve. However, systemic issues have long prevented the VA from fulfilling this promise effectively. These challenges not only harm veterans but also undermine public confidence in the institution.

Addressing the VA’s shortcomings will require bold leadership, significant investment, and a commitment to placing veterans’ needs at the center of reform efforts. By modernizing technology, increasing staffing, reducing bureaucracy, enhancing accountability, and expanding outreach, the VA can begin to rebuild trust and ensure that veterans receive the care and support they have earned. The stakes are too high to accept anything less.

The VA has suffered significantly in recent years thanks to the pandemic, funding issues, and a Biden administration that totally neglected military and veteran issues, policies, and funding, leaving them in a state of disrepair for President Trump to attempt to salvage, repair, and strengthen.

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How did the VA's incompetence and the VFW's negligence end with my suicide?

Retired US Air Force officer and disabled combat veteran, LtCol C.T. Sorrentino, discusses how broken the VA system is, healthcare and disability claims are a labyrinth of bureaucratic bullshit, and the end goal is doing as little as possible in an effort to save veteran lives.

The VA looks for ways to fuck the veteran, not help the veteran, all in the name of bureaucracy and government inefficiency while dozens of veterans kill themselves every day.

As a combat veteran, I have suffered from PTSD for many years and the struggles of deep depressions and nearly constant anxiety have been debilitating. I learned to self-medicate with alcohol in the military and have been a binge abuser for many years. I have been to the ER 9 times since 2012 and hospitalized 3 times, the latest on December 9th, 2024 after a suicide attempt. In April 2021,

Severely depressed and anxious constantly, on August 13th I traveled at my own expense to the USA to attend VA C&P exams for my PACT disability claim and to try to get help for my quickly deteriorating health. The trip was almost a complete waste of time thanks to Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) gross mismanagement of my claim and complete incompetence on the part of the VA. They failed me. On December 6th, I accused the VFW of gross negligence in mismanaging my claim to failure and they notified me that they would no longer represent me in my claim! First, Joe Stutzman's negligence in filing my claim incorrectly, then being AWOL when my claim started falling apart in mid-September.

On December 7th, I tried to commit suicide because of overwhelming anger at and frustration with the VA and VFW and poor impulse control led to me buying 5 liters of bourbon and locking myself in my room with the booze and a climbing ax.

On December 9th, I was restrained beyond my range-of-motion limits behind back after being manhandled by five young, strong Portuguese police officers. My wife had called for help, but was physically prohibited by police in our own home from watching as they threw me around before forcing my arms behind my back as I screamed I'm a disabled veteran¨ over and over and over. I was then transported 30 minutes to the local hospital, my arms restrained behind my back and my full 225 pounds of body weight pressing down on my arms,

During my 36 hours in the hospital, I had no vitals taken the entire time, I was tied to bed (hand and foot) for over 14 hours, the nurses were rude with minimum car and I didn't see a doctor for over 30 hours.

I was released from the hospital very late on December 10th and beside still being extremely depressed, I was now in extreme pain after the assault against me by police. I have intense shoulder and neck pain, numbness in both hands (nerve damage), bruises, and an abrasion on and pain in my left elbow.

December 13th was the 1-year anniversary of the death of my best friend and service dog, Kemper and December 15th was my birthday, but I was depressed to the point of being unable to talk and has continued until present. Then on December 25th, I was abandoned by both of my sons on the worst day of my life. I was extremely suicidal.

I have been trying to get help in the US ever since December 10th, but the VA has failed me once again and nobody else seems to care or take Tricare for Life.

The VA, VFW, DAV, WWP, and Senator Patty Murray all ignored my pleas for help and, right now, I don't know which end is up, whether this is all physical (long-COVID), mental, or both.