Michaela’s Muses: Take care of homebound veterans

I was driving around Rio Rancho and parts of Albuquerque earlier this week, just a few days after Memorial Day.

As was, unfortunately, the norm, I saw several individuals on the side of our local roads holding signs that said, “Please help. Homeless. I am a veteran.” Or something like it.

The sad truth is support for our veterans often ends when they get home. Some heroes come home and are forgotten. These people who sacrificed their lifestyle and sometimes their sanity for our freedoms become unknown to us.

I have had family members in the military as well as close friends who are currently serving. Luckily, they all have lives set up for when they finish their duty.

But it makes me wonder about those who have to start from scratch when they get home. And what about their mental health?

According to Veterans Affairs, an individual that is deployed has an increased probability of suffering from PTSD symptoms. Around 7% of individuals that are of military personnel suffer from PTSD.

However, in a world where many people are ashamed to show weakness of any kind, I am sure many have not been diagnosed officially.

Every time I hear a speech about support for veterans or another ode to those fighting overseas, I ask the same question: What about the ones that came home?

Sure, they get discounts at restaurants and are thanked for their service. But what else?

Somehow I don’t think a discount will save a veteran from homelessness.