In a recent article entitled TheVeterans Navigation Center: Help Starts Here, San Diego's Ranch & Coast Magazine did a thorough write up on The Veterans Navigation Center.
“The VA is critical for these people,” says Silverman. “But if you talk to veterans, many of their experiences with the VA are negative. The goal with the VNC is to create something where we can give people a safe harbor for longer periods of time and help them navigate the system.”
Another staggering statistic is that those recovering from a substance use disorder (SUD) who do not
receive a continuum of care reportedly have a 95 percent chance of relapsing, and stunningly, by some measures, half the 370,000 veterans in San Diego either do not have medical insurance or their nonmilitary medical benefits have run out.
“Every day in the service you know when to wake up, what uniform to wear, what the schedule is for the day,” says Wylie. “When you get out, it’s like a switch is flipped. You’re on your own. You’re no longer supported.” The VNC is working to change that here in San Diego, and its services are in-network with TriWest, the insurance underwriter for Veterans’ behavioral health services.
“When a veteran or a veteran’s family member calls, we embrace that veteran as [their] advocate,” says Silverman. “Veterans who need support around substance abuse disorder — we bring them in as a client. If they need a higher level of care, we get them over to the VA and work with them there. And if it’s something else entirely, we refer them to our partners in the coalition.
Click here to read the entire article from Ranch & Coast magazine.
🪖 🎖️Today, March 29, is National Vietnam War Veterans Day – a day dedicated to our nation's heroes who served in that war. Fifty years have passed since the final American military forces left Vietnam and our remaining prisoners of war were returned. Even after the passage of five decades, we still owe these veterans a large debt of gratitude. During the conflict, political controversy and disagreement were sadly misdirected toward those who had admirably served our nation. When these brave warriors returned from Vietnam, they received neither a hero’s welcome nor appreciation for their service that they deserved, but instead got apathy, anger and hate. Disappointingly, many were left to struggle alone with self-doubt, shame and the memories of those left behind. After their wartime service ended, these unsung heroes went to work, served in government and became involved in their communities. Vietnam War-era veterans went on to lead Fortune 500 companies, direct Oscar-winning films, create a prominent computer-programming language, map the human genome and many other outstanding accomplishments. Today, there are approximately 6 million living veterans from the Vietnam era – more than 30% of America’s veteran population. We offer our sincerest thanks on this momentous day to all of those brave souls who served! 🪖 🎖️
🪖 🎖️ Don't be afraid to ask a Veteran: “Have You Thought About Harming Yourself?” It might seem scary and awkward to ask them directly about suicide, but the Veteran in your life deserves it. Veterans are 50% more likely to commit suicide than non-Veterans. In this article, 'Veteran-in-recovery' Jay Wylie says: “It’s a conversation that needs to be had because, frankly, the Vet in question probably wants to talk about it. Being able to share your difficulties with someone who cares can be a huge relief.” Read an article about this important topic here: https://bit.ly/3a0TaI5
