It’s not generally up for debate anymore; finding life troubling and perplexing seems to be the common consensus. Whether it’s navigating so many legal issues or the influx of people seeking a diagnosis for ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent conditions, the fact is that we don’t necessarily live in a world that’s as supportive or nurturing as it used to be. Of course, one could argue that it never was supportive in the first place.  

As human beings, we are hardwired to raise an eyebrow at something that is different from us, but if there’s one narrative that has constantly been pushed for as long as one can remember, particularly from the mid-part of the 20th century, it’s that war veterans and military personnel don’t get their dues. The problem is that it’s not just a narrative; the fact is that from Vietnam vets feeling they’re not getting recompense to soldiers experiencing Gulf War syndrome and, in recent memory, soldiers fighting the Taliban experiencing a wealth of PTSD symptoms, military personnel not getting the support they have earned and deserve has been peppered throughout popular culture, from Born in the USA to Lt. Dan in Forrest Gump.  

As we approach the latter part of the mid-2020s, the United States is continuing to grapple with the challenge of providing comprehensive support to its military veterans. It’s our duty to ensure they receive the care and support they deserve, but what should this look like?  

Addressing the Mental Health Components  

Researchers highlight a significant link between mental health issues in ex-military personnel and an increased risk of criminal behavior. Veterans with mental health conditions, particularly PTSD, can be more involved in the criminal justice system compared to veterans without such conditions. Veterans with PTSD are 59% more likely to be arrested for violent offenses.  

Arguably, one could see how catered military personnel are in terms of the law system through the very opposite components of policy and procedure. San Diego Bail Bonds provides military discounts for ex-military, and this is not a rarity. Many bail bond companies are serving ex-military personnel. One could argue that this is a supportive measure and an amazing way to say “thanks,” but another could debate this as being a fact that military personnel can very well be involved in committing more crimes than we think.  

Other mental health conditions associated with increased involvement in the criminal justice system can include traumatic brain injury (TBI), anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. Therefore, addressing the issue demands a comprehensive approach that is holistic in nature. For example, expanding programs such as veterans treatment courts, which serve veterans charged with offenses and typically require a mental health or substance abuse disorder diagnosis.  

On the other side of the coin, specialized training for law enforcement and criminal justice professionals can help them interact with veterans experiencing mental health crises. Combining this with funding for mental health research and early screening for mental health issues in criminal justice and healthcare settings can help break the link between mental health problems and criminal justice involvement among veterans, which will improve their quality of life.  

Revolutionizing Healthcare Access  

Healthcare continues to remain a critical concern for many veterans. Recent legislative efforts have aimed to address long-standing issues within the VA system and expand veterans’ options for care.  

For example, the Veterans Health Care Freedom Act could significantly alter how veterans access healthcare. The act proposes allowing veterans to bypass pre-approval requirements for non-VA care, streamlining the process of seeking treatment outside the VA system. The act would remove eligibility requirements for private practice medical services, meaning a wider range of options for veterans. A three-year pilot program is proposed to test direct access to community care, with the potential for expansion to all veterans upon completion of the trial period.  

Additionally, the Veterans Access Act of 2025 focuses on improving accessibility within the VA healthcare system. The act aims to ensure consistency in care delivery by codifying the current access standards. The legislation prevents the VA from manipulating wait times to limit community care access, addressing a longstanding concern among veterans. It establishes defined access standards for residential mental health and substance abuse treatment. The act empowers veterans to make informed choices about their health.  

These efforts represent a significant leap in addressing the overall healthcare needs of veterans. By expanding options and improving transparency, these acts can ensure veterans receive timely, high-quality care, whether they are within or outside the VA system.  

Securing Stable Housing  

Housing stability is a crucial factor in veterans’ successful transition to civilian life. Recent initiatives, such as The Home Depot Foundation’s Veteran Housing Grants Program, have shown how private sector involvement can make a difference in veterans’ lives.  

The program funds new construction or rehabilitation of permanent supportive housing for veterans, targeting those at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI). Additionally, the program mandates supportive services, ensuring they have access to what they need to thrive. With at least 20% of housing units in funded projects needing to be reserved for veterans, this is going some way to ensure they are not feeling left behind.  

Expanding Employment Opportunities  

In a world where AI continues to cast shadows of doubt over people in current employment, it is still a key concern for many veterans making the transition to civilian life. However, many companies are now stepping up to the plate, providing support programs and targeted hiring initiatives.  

Participation in programs like DOD SkillBridge, Hiring Our Heroes, and American Corporate Partners is becoming more common, ensuring the gap between military service and civilian employment is more streamlined. Many have established dedicated veteran recruitment teams, recognizing the unique skills and experiences that veterans can bring to the workforce.  

Company-specific interim programs with high job offer rates are also providing veterans with valuable experience and a foot in the door at top firms.  

Financial Assistance  

The Department of Veterans Affairs is taking significant steps to provide financial support and prevent homelessness among veterans. They are doing this through the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) grants, which aim to rapidly rehouse veterans and prevent homelessness by providing financial support during their times of need.  

Additionally, the Homeless Providers Grant and Per Diem (GPD) Case Management grants allocate approximately $15 million per year for three years to this program, supporting case management services for homeless veterans and helping them access the resources they need to regain stability.  

Specialized financial services for veterans, whether through discount bail bonds or direct financial support, are an excellent way of saying thank you to veterans for their service.  

A Holistic Approach Is Needed  

Supporting our veterans requires a multifaceted approach to address healthcare, housing, and so much more. Recent initiatives and proposed legislation show a growing recognition of the complex needs of veterans and a commitment to meeting those needs more effectively. However, there’s always more to be done.  

As citizens, we can support these efforts by advocating for supportive policies, engaging with veterans, supporting organizations and businesses that prioritize veteran support, and engaging with veterans in our communities. The modern world is not necessarily built for effective collaboration anymore. However, the story of veterans being left on the stockpile is nothing new.  

Therefore, we need to recognize that now, in a world where we are prioritizing mental health support, it is even more important that the people who have laid down their lives, bodies, souls, and psychological health get the support they so rightly deserve.