Back to Our Roots: Serving our Service Members

For any who may not know, we started as a mental health clinic for veterans.  Started by a veteran born into a family with a history of service, the PTI is well aware of the issues and struggles which vets face as they return to the civilian world from deployment.  We found success with our formula, which is putting people first and providing as many of the basic services as possible under one roof.  Since finding that original success with the great veterans of Louisiana, we expanded our services to open our doors to everyone who needs help.

Nevertheless, we want to remember our roots and to remember our veterans and service-members.  They have given untold sacrifices and often go unrecognized in our society.  The wounds of battle, some of which are visible, and many of which are not, often go unseen, especially as the complicated issues of Post Traumatic Stress become more and more apparent.

Mental Health And Veterans

Statistically, about 50% of returning service members who need mental health services seek it out, and only half of those 50% actually receive adequate care.  Another alarming statistic, which has received a lot of exposure in recent years is the Army suicide rate reaching an all-time high in 2012.  Earlier, in 2009, the leading causes for hospitalizations among US troops were mental health and substance abuse disorders.

We also want to draw special attention to the families of our service-members.  With longer cumulative time spent in deployment, spouses are more susceptible to emotional difficulties and mental health related issues.  Children of deployed service-members can have more difficulty with relationships, especially in school and family settings than their peers.

We recognize the cultural differences that are present within the military and want to assure our veterans, service-members, and their families that we are ready to serve you no matter where you are in your deployment or re-integration process.  Our mental health offices in Baton Rouge and Covington are well equipped to help with a variety of severe and acute mental illnesses, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and much more.  Below are some resources that are available for veterans and service-members:

Here is a free and anonymous Department of Veteran Affairs crisis hotline for veterans and their families that is available 24-7-365:  1-800-273-8255

SAMHSA is the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association run by the Federal government.  Resources at the above link are available for suicide prevention, homelessness, housing, and criminal justice.

The Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs (LDVA) has a variety of resources and programs available for our service members.  The Troops to Teachers is a US Department of Education and DOD program that provides extra funding for veterans interested in becoming certified to teach in public schools.  LAVETBIZ is an initiative that supports Louisiana based veteran owned business compete for state contracts.  The LDVA also supports veterans with educational benefits, home loans, vocational rehab, pensions, and disability compensation.