LANSING, Mich., May 16, 2023 — The House Committee on Military, Veterans and Homeland Security heard a presentation today from the National Guard Association of Michigan on the mental health challenges veterans in the state are facing. They discussed difficulties veterans have identifying the resources available to them and finding social support, as well as common mental illnesses that veterans struggle with, including depression, PTSD and anxiety. State Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor Charter Township) issued the following statement on the hearing:
“The first step to better serving our veterans is to listen. These presentations will help us identify the best ways to offer support to veterans of different backgrounds, living in different parts of the state, struggling with unique challenges. I will continue to be a strong advocate for veterans in the state House and will continue to encourage them to speak out so we can better address their needs.”