Over the next two years, more than 1 million veterans are expected to return home from overseas assignment. Studies show that hundreds of thousands of them might suffer from depression or post-traumatic stress disorder.
In response to anticipated increases in requests for assistance and information, County health officials have announced a new “one-stop” website with important information for our area’s veterans and service members. The site includes information about housing, counseling services, career advice and employment assistance, among other things.
“The transition from soldier to civilian can prove challenging,” said Nick Macchione, director of the county Health and Human Services Agency. The county “is making efforts to ease that transition.”
Anyone who may suffer from mental illness can call a 24-hour crisis line at (800) 479-3339. The Veteran’s Assistance web address is www.sandiego.networkofcare.org.