Unseen Struggles: Mental Health Crisis Plagues US Military Personnel in 2023

In 2023, a report from the Defense Health Agency (DHA) revealed that mental health issues are the leading cause of hospitalization among active-duty US military personnel. Nearly one-third of the approximately 62,800 cases of troop hospitalization last year were for mental health treatment, with the US Army accounting for the most cases, followed by the US Navy and Air Force.

The DHA reported that male patients were primarily diagnosed with adjustment disorders and alcohol abuse, while female soldiers were more likely to have major depressive disorder and post-traumatic stress. On average, these patients stayed in the hospital for five days, with some requiring up to 34 days to recover.

This news underscores the ongoing issue of mental healthcare within the US Armed Forces. A recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlighted a shortage of mental health workers within the military, leading troops to seek help outside the system. Additionally, the DHA has been criticized for failing to monitor the progress of soldiers seeking treatment and for long wait times for receiving care.

To address these issues, the DHA has called for a holistic, integrated approach to mental health treatment for military personnel. This approach takes into account the unique health challenges faced by service members and emphasizes providing adequate access to mental health care for all active-duty personnel and their families, especially those living in barracks who may face additional challenges in accessing proper care. By addressing these issues, the military can better meet the mental health needs of its service members and ensure they receive the care they deserve.