1. Overview of veterans outpatient mental health needs By Todd LaBreck MSW/LICSW VA Brockton PTSD Team

2. DISCLAIMER The views and opinions of this speaker are not a representation of the Veteran’s Administration policies, procedures or have any official connection to the Veteran’s administration.

3. Easier Access for the following: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Often misdiagnosed as Bi-Polar Disorder. Veterans fear the stigma of being “crazy”. Veterans worry that their jobs or military units will find out they’re getting treated and they could be fired or not promoted. Many vets don’t seek treatment because they would be perceived as weak.

4. Substance-Related & Addictive Disorders More availability for drug and alcohol treatment. (Primary issues we treat) More access to Suboxone for opiate dependent veterans. Prescribers be more aware of pain medication abusers. Many have prescriptions from multiple prescribers.

5. Serious Mental Illness More supportive housing for veterans with long term serious mental illness. This is a serious need. Many veteran’s aren’t able to manage without some help or supervision. This can lead to homelessness and/or chronic inpatient hospitalizations.

6. Other needs connected to mental health Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) screening and care. Not just Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. All war’s have had TBI issues. Providers not understanding the military culture. Vets more inclined to talk about killing because it what we’re trained to do. Clarify it’s a term used in frustration, not actual H.I. Trained to make immediate decisions and implement them. Having multiple meetings with no actionable plans is frustrating.

7. Con’t Case management to support veterans. This would divert veteran from accessing higher level of care services which are more expensive and could be avoided. More affordable housing to decrease homelessness. Training programs to get veterans back to work. More access to affordable legal assistance.

8. Final thoughts Any man or woman who served in the military has put their country above their own wants and needs. This is rare action in a Capitalist nation. Their service allows us to have our opinions, lifestyles and safety that we take for granted. They shouldn’t have to fight for any assistance or be pawns of politics & business. Email me at Todd.LaBreck@VA.GOV