You may have heard that May in Indianapolis is a big deal. Between the Greatest Spectacle in Racing and our Pacers advancing in the playoffs, there’s a lot to be excited about this month. But we would also like to take time to pause in recognition of Mental Health Awareness month and stand in solidarity with all those facing mental health challenges. 

According to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, 1 in 5 US adults experienced a mental illness in 2021. Over 46 million people over the age of 12 reported a substance use disorder. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 10–14-year-olds, and the third leading cause of death for 15–24-year-olds. And, sadly, the average delay between symptom onset and receiving treatment for mental illness is 11 years.  

A few years ago, thanks to financial support from our community, including the Indianapolis Colts Kicking the Stigma initiative, HVAF added a full-time therapist to our staff. We want to remove all barriers to treatment for veterans in our community, and offering this resource has been invaluable.  

73.5% of veterans served at HVAF in 2023 reported a mental health or substance use diagnosis. So far this year, nearly 80% of veterans report the same. Data from our therapy program reveals that the most frequent issues veterans are seeking to address are trauma, dealing with transitions in life, and alcoholism. 

A recent article seeking to explain why veterans face higher risk of homelessness indicated that mental health and addiction have the highest correlations of homelessness among veterans. Veterans experiencing homelessness are 5 times more likely than other veterans to suffer from alcohol use disorder, cigarette addiction, major depression, PTSD, and drug use disorder. 

The 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report published by the VA noted the following startling statistics: 

-Suicide is the 13th leading cause of death for veterans overall, and the 2nd leading cause of death for veterans under age 45. 

-6,392 veterans died by suicide in 2021 

-The suicide rate for veterans with indications of homelessness was 72.8% higher than other veterans. 

HVAF’s new Program Screener, Ren, recently joined our team after working at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline.  From their experience, Ren shared veterans calling the hotline often reported housing instability. Substance use and domestic violence were also contributing factors for those calling the hotline. During Ren’s time at 988, approximately 1 in 5 callers was a veteran. 

To end veteran homelessness, we must also have crucial conversations about mental health and suicide prevention. We must integrate housing solutions with mental health services, including intensive case management, peer support services, and therapeutic services. In this Mental Health Awareness month, HVAF is committed in our Strategic Plan to expanding these initiatives to ensure veterans have the best opportunity at self-sufficiency. 

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.