Student Veterans bring unmatched resilience to college campuses; however, their mental health needs, particularly among those identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or unsure (LGBU), demand immediate attention. Consequently, research from the Journal of American College Health highlights significant disparities in mental health challenges faced by student service members/veterans (SSM/V) based on sexual orientation. Therefore, this blog explores these findings, offering insights to empower communities, colleges, and mental health professionals to support this courageous population.
Why Mental Health Matters for Student Veterans in College
College is a transformative period; nevertheless, for student veterans, it can be a battleground of unseen struggles. For instance, the 2011 National College Health Assessment, analyzed by Michael D. Pelts and David L. Albright, surveyed 702 veterans and revealed stark mental health differences between heterosexual and LGBU veterans. As a result of the Post-9/11 GI Bill, veterans are enrolling in higher numbers; thus, understanding these disparities is vital for promoting academic success and emotional well-being. Moreover, veterans face unique stressors—transitioning from military to civilian life, navigating academic pressures, and sometimes coping with combat-related trauma. For LGBU veterans, these challenges are amplified by societal stigma and campus environments that may not always feel inclusive. Hence, tailored mental health support is essential.
Key Mental Health Disparities
The study’s findings are compelling. Specifically, LGBU student veterans reported higher rates of mental health symptoms compared to heterosexual peers. For example:
- Hopelessness: 51% of LGBU veterans felt hopeless, whereas only 32% of heterosexual veterans reported this.
- Depression: 47% of LGBU veterans felt so depressed it was hard to function, in contrast to 25% of heterosexual veterans.
- Suicidal Ideation: Alarmingly, 18% of LGBU veterans seriously considered suicide, compared to 6% of heterosexual peers.
These numbers reflect real individuals facing profound challenges. Additionally, LGBU veterans were more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety (27% vs. 14%), depression (38% vs. 13%), and rare disorders like schizophrenia (11% vs. <1%). Consequently, this data underscores the need for accessible, inclusive mental health resources.
Stressors Facing Student Veterans
Life stressors disproportionately impact LGBU student veterans. The research found they were more likely to struggle with:
- Academics (51% vs. 35%)
- Finances (57% vs. 38%)
- Personal Appearance (33% vs. 14%)
These stressors intensify mental health challenges, creating a cycle that can derail goals. Interestingly, intimate relationships showed no significant differences; therefore, external pressures like financial strain or societal judgment play a larger role for LGBU veterans.
Modern Solutions for Student Veterans Support
Colleges and mental health providers can act by tailoring support to veterans’ needs. For instance, telehealth services offer a flexible way to deliver care, enabling student veterans to access therapy from anywhere. This is crucial for students juggling classes and jobs. Furthermore, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is effective for trauma-related symptoms like PTSD, which is more prevalent among LGBU veterans. By processing distressing memories, EMDR provides hope. Thus, combining telehealth with therapies like EMDR can create a lifeline for veterans seeking healing.
Campus Actions to Support Veterans
The research is a wake-up call for universities. Currently, only 13% of institutions have nondiscrimination policies inclusive of sexual orientation, per the Campus Pride Index. As a result, LGBU student veterans face risks of harassment and isolation, with up to one-third of LGB students considering leaving campus due to feeling unsafe. Therefore, colleges must prioritize inclusive policies, veteran-friendly mental health services, and awareness campaigns. Additionally, mental health centers can train staff to understand the intersection of veteran and LGBU identities. Peer support groups and tailored counseling can help veterans feel supported. Ultimately, addressing these disparities could transform outcomes and save lives.
Hope and Healing for the Future
The journey for student veterans, especially LGBU individuals, is complex; however, it is not insurmountable. By highlighting these disparities, the research empowers communities to act. For example, telehealth and therapies like EMDR provide tools to help veterans reclaim their strength. Moreover, campuses and advocates can build a future where every veteran feels valued. This is about honoring those who have served and ensuring they thrive. Let’s commit to making mental health care accessible, inclusive, and transformative for all.
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In case of a mental health emergency, please call 911 or seek immediate professional help.
Source:
Pelts, M. D., & Albright, D. L. (2014). An exploratory study of Student Service Members/Veterans’ mental health characteristics by sexual orientation. Journal of American College Health, 63(7), 508–512. https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2014.947992