It’s OK, not to be OK
The Birmingham VA Health Care System celebrated Mental Health Awareness Month recently. The Mental Health Service hosted a three-day event at the Birmingham East VA Clinic in Irondale.
Mental Health staff warmly welcomed Veterans to the new facility that offers most mental health services from the Birmingham VA. Veterans arriving at the East VA Clinic received a mental health care package and resources to support their health and well-being.
Dozens of Veterans arrived at the East Clinic and were greeted by friendly faces providing refreshments and music. Dual service Veteran of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army, Stephen Rindler began his military service in 1991 and only recently started his journey in VA Health Care. He says mental health is essential to his whole health approach to living. “I’ve never seen so much help in one place,” explained Rindler. “I think more than just Veterans should talk about mental health. It’s not just a Veteran topic—mental health is an everybody topic.”
According to Lester Mills, who began his service in the U.S. Army in 1979, mental health isn’t an issue anyone should be embarrassed about. “I didn’t think I needed mental health care but started seeing a provider a few weeks ago. I just needed help and guidance. I didn’t think I needed the help, but this place, the people, brought light to darkness and changed my outlook,” Mills expressed. “We all need mental health care, and I hope more Veterans and everyday people find the care they need. I’ve gotten my confidence back.”
Mental Health Awareness Month in May brings attention to the challenges others face by allowing us to see the individual as a person and not their illness while promoting mental well-being resources.
According to Britany Patrick, a registered nurse for Mental Health Service, stigma affects the number of those seeking treatment. Reducing the stigmas surrounding mental health can be a vital step toward an individual seeking therapy.
“Increasing mental health awareness helps society work toward eliminating its stigmas and could lead to a more significant understanding of mental health,” said Patrick.
“We need to erase the negative perception of mental health disorders and reinforce that there is no shame in receiving mental health services. Mental health conditions affect non-Veterans and Veterans, and we welcome our patients, our Veterans, so they understand ‘It is OK, not to be OK.”