Letter: Resources exist for veterans with mental illness

To the editor,

First and foremost, as a totally disabled veteran for a bipolar disorder, I am concerned with what my comrades are suffering from. In my role as the community Beyond The Yellow Ribbon coordinator, it is my responsibility to direct them to the proper resources. I do this through being an editor of two newsletters, the Dakota County Post Service Officers Association and community BTYR. Every month, this will be an item of discussion along with employment. I have received an answer on employment from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

Mental health continues to remain one of the highest challenges for America’s veterans.

Almost all service members have reactions after returning from deployment. These behaviors and feelings are normal. Despite the challenges, most service members will successfully readjust with few problems. However, seeking solutions to problems is a sign of strength. There should not be hesitation to take advantage of the resources that are available. Having knowledge, coping skills, and social support will positively influence the ability and attitude to handle the uncertainties and better prepare them.

The Veterans Linkage Line (LinkVet) is a toll free, one stop customer service line and website for all Minnesota veterans and their families. The service connects Veterans and their families to important services and resources. Calls are answered from Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CORE counselors will continue to provide service 24 hours a day seven days a week, including holidays, for immediate crisis intervention and psychological counseling. Veterans can call MDVA LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet (546-5838), VA Veterans Crisis Line 1-800-273-8255, VA Mental Health Phone Clinic (612) 467-1664, VA Mental Health After-Hours Crisis Line (POD), (612) 467-2771 or St Paul Veterans Center (651) 644-4022. Go directly to the closest hospital emergency room: Allina Medical Clinic-Hastings, 1210 First Street W., 651-438-1800. Remember in all cases, if there is an emergency call 911.

I have also asked the question: What is the frequency of mental illness within the community? Without ever knowing, I will continue to research this topic with Patient Education, VAMC and reading legislative reports. If my blind copy to has any opinions, I would appreciate them. Yes, my secondary diagnosis is obsessive compulsive.

I graduate from Cognitive-Behavioral Social Skills Training (CBSST) on Oct. 31. Hopefully I can apply some of the skills I have learned. I will truly miss the ability to talk to my psychologist and will depend on community support, especially my comrades. If you want to be part of my Personal Safety Plan, please respond.

Dean Markuson

Hastings

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion, hastings, minnesota, spiral, local