About 7% of all U.S. veterans experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) during their lifetimes, though that rate rises sharply to roughly 30% among combat veterans of the Vietnam War and post-9/11 conflicts. Additionally, transitioning service members frequently face overlapping challenges, with more than 10% developing a substance use disorder and nearly 25% of post-9/11 combat veterans suffering from a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
During an editorial board hosted by Inside Sources, leaders from major veteran organizations recently highlighted growing gaps in support, ranging from rising housing costs to lost safety nets during the transition to civilian life.
The panel, titled "When 'Thank You for Your Service' Isn't Enough,'" addressed the cost of living squeezing veteran and military families, homelessness, paperwork barriers that keep veterans from accessing benefits, food insecurity among military families, military spouse unemployment, and advances in mental healthcare but continuing gaps in access.
Army combat veteran Vincent Morales, co-founder of the Veterans Community Project, said appreciation for veterans must translate into meaningful action.
"Veterans don't necessarily need applause," he said. "They need access. They need support. We need intervention."
Beyond financial strain, systemic legal issues and moral injuries continue to create less visible barriers to veterans' well-being.
Dr. Kyleanne Hunter of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America emphasized that long-term mental health requires ongoing attention and support.
"Mental healthcare is not a one-and-done," she stated. "Much like physical therapy or staying in remission, there's continued maintenance. We need to focus on keeping people engaged for the long haul."
Despite the challenges, panelists pointed to meaningful progress in addressing veterans' needs. Clinical treatments for PTSD have advanced significantly, offering new hope and more effective pathways to recovery.
Healthcare eligibility has also reportedly expanded under the PACT Act, while funding has increased for homelessness and suicide prevention. Other efforts include strengthened housing protections, modernized GI Bill benefits and expanded grants for veteran-owned small businesses.
Dr. Meg Harrell of the Bob Woodruff Foundation emphasized that ordinary citizens also have a role to play in supporting veterans and military families.
"Veterans are people first," she said. "All the things that help the people in your community are going to help the veterans and military families in your community."
Veterans Day, observed annually on Nov. 11, is a federal holiday honoring everyone who has served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Unlike Memorial Day, which specifically honors those who died in military service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans, living and deceased, regardless of whether they served during wartime or peacetime.
As the holiday approaches, panelists encouraged the public to engage with veterans through curiosity rather than stereotypes, offering former service members the attention, understanding and resources they need to thrive.
