BURLINGTON, Vt. - State leaders are implementing an action plan aimed at assisting active servicemembers returning home from deployments. Recently, the 158th Fighter Wing of the Vermont Air National Guard returned from extended missions in the Middle East and Venezuela. The transition back to civilian life can lead to significant stress and challenges.
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To address these needs, Vermont is introducing a comprehensive plan that includes resources through the 988 help line, assistance in locating providers compatible with their insurance, and the establishment of recreational and wellness areas for servicemembers. Lt. Col. Scott Detweiler of the Vermont Air National Guard emphasized the importance of connections with friends and family, noting that support from peers who understand their experiences can be crucial.
It is estimated that Vermont experiences 18 veteran suicides each year, a situation exacerbated by a shortage of mental health providers in rural areas and insufficient funding for mental health services at both state and federal levels.