Alabama Launches Comprehensive Mental Health Program for Veterans

A new initiative in Alabama is set to transform mental health support for veterans, making it significantly easier for them to access vital services. The program, spearheaded by the Alabama Department of Mental Health, aims to connect veterans with mental health resources anytime they need assistance. This initiative targets the more than 40,000 veterans statewide, particularly those aged 18 to 34.

The expanded program will provide various services, including mental health counseling, recovery support, and free therapy sessions. According to Kim Boswell, Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Mental Health, veterans experiencing both substance use disorders and traumatic brain injuries are at the highest risk for suicide. This new effort specifically aims to address these challenges by facilitating access to necessary support.

Key Components of the Program

Included in this multifaceted approach is funding for organizations that treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and provide crisis support. Rural veterans, who often face barriers to accessing care, will particularly benefit from these expanded services. “We really worked hard listening to veterans tell their stories,” Boswell stated. “We also listened to family members to try and really address those difficult and challenging areas where it looked like no one was really in that space providing that service.”

This initiative emphasizes the importance of employment as a pathway to recovery. Boswell noted, “Sometimes a job is the best medicine. We know that our veterans really are folks who thrive when they have a purpose.” By providing access to employment opportunities alongside mental health services, the program seeks to support veterans in their transition back to civilian life.

The program comprises several key organizations that will collaborate to deliver a wide array of services:

• AltaPointe: The Veteran Crisis Care and Treatment Linkage Operation Resilience features three components—education, outreach, and tailored crisis services led by veteran peers.
• Centerstone: This organization will offer 3,000 free therapy sessions to veterans through a network of licensed behavioral health clinicians in Alabama.
• Sojourn Counseling: Veterans will have access to trauma-informed care, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Microcurrent Neurofeedback (MCN) services, at no cost.
• The Shoulder: Focused on residential substance use treatment, The Shoulder will provide outreach and scholarships to veterans, particularly for women and those in rural areas.
• UWill: This program offers free telehealth therapy sessions and crisis support, specifically targeting veterans aged 18 to 34, though no veteran will be turned away.

Impact and Accessibility

The comprehensive nature of this initiative reflects a concerted effort by Alabama state leaders to ensure that veterans receive the support they need. By listening to feedback from veterans and their families, the Alabama Department of Mental Health has designed a program that addresses critical gaps in services.

As part of this initiative, veterans can directly contact the participating organizations to sign up for services. The availability of both in-person and telehealth options ensures that veterans, including those in remote areas, can access mental health support without significant barriers.

With this new program, Alabama aims not only to reduce the risk of suicide among veterans but also to promote overall well-being and reintegration into civilian life. By providing essential resources and support, the state hopes to foster a healthier, more fulfilled veteran community.