Support Veterans' Health Naturally
May 14, 2025
Support Veterans' Health Naturally
Chances are you know a military veteran whether they are family, a friend, or just an acquaintance. This is because 18.6 million veterans live in the United States (U.S.), its territories, and other locations as of 2023. The VA (Department of Veterans Affairs) oversees 139.7 million outpatient visits yearly. Sadly, studies have revealed many chronic health conditions are more prevalent in veterans than the average population. Since veterans make up a smaller portion of the U.S. population, it’s shameful we haven’t been able to support our warriors more effectively. To help change this, we need to learn more natural ways to support our veterans.
Veterans’ Health Concerns
Disturbingly, United States military veterans have a higher risk of poor health outcomes compared to those who never served. Numerous health concerns occur at a higher rate in veterans than in the general population. This includes obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease, cancers, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, arthritis is also more prevalent, being one of the leading causes of medical discharge. Perhaps of greatest concern, one large study found approximately 43% of veterans experience some sort of mental health issue. These included post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depressive disorders, and substance abuse. Problems with controlling anger, sleeping difficulties, and readjusting to civilian life are also common.
Additionally, veterans are 1.5 times more likely to be suicidal. At this point, there is no definitive reason why veterans have to deal with more chronic health conditions. It’s thought this is due to the physical and mental stress from combat duty and deployments, trauma from any cause, and maintaining peak physical fitness while on active duty. Being away from home in a hostile environment can cause anyone stress. Stress itself can lead to poor lifestyle habits, which increases the risk of chronic diseases.
Supporting Veterans’ Health Naturally
It’s most important for veterans to realize they are not alone with their health conditions. Sometimes, veterans may choose to tough it out or ignore health problems until they are extremely sick. But, it doesn’t have to be this way.
One way to positively impact veterans’ health is by focusing on diet. Overall, research shows Americans need to improve the quality of their diet. Many veterans seem to make worse dietary choices than the average population. Americans generally eat too many processed foods with lots of added sugars. The more processed a food is, the lower its nutrient content.
A whole foods diet can be a strong step to improving overall health. This means buying foods that don’t typically come in a box or a can. Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality dairy products helps provide the body with the nutrients it requires to be healthy. It will require some cooking and food preparation, but there are ways to make food prep more efficient. One thing to look into is the Whole30 diet which focuses on a 30-day dietary reset focused on whole foods. Another option is to consider ready-made meal delivery services. For more information, speak with a doctor or nutritionist.
It Takes a Village
It’s important to seek professional help whenever it’s needed. Trained community members have tools and resources available to help veterans in many ways.
- Massage Therapy—This is great for physical health. For those who are living alone or don’t have family close by, touch therapy is helpful. Massage also helps with acute or chronic pain from many different causes, including old injuries.
- Acupuncture—It can help balance mood and support overall health. Anxious and depressed patients respond positively, showing improved quality of life. Best of all, acupuncture can be used alongside conventional medications and therapies.
- Counseling—Talking things out with someone can help. If professional counseling isn't available, veterans can go to their local American Legion to connect with other veterans.
- Friends—Maintaining strong social connections can also be useful. Those who interact with more people and have high social support tend to feel better. They also have a stronger sense of well-being. Reach out to family, friends, and other loved ones to spend time together.
- Animals—Research confirms horseback riding or owning a dog can be beneficial. It allows veterans to connect and build social relationships with animals.
Keep In Touch
Maintaining strong social connections is helpful for overall health. Please remember if you are a veteran or know someone who is, you are not alone. There are many resources available. The VA offers a variety of mental health services to all veterans. Allopathic and holistic medical approaches can be used alone or in combination to customize an individual health plan. The goal is to help veterans achieve and maintain the healthy self they envision. Massage therapists, acupuncturists, and counselors may have specific services for veterans or may offer discounts.
If someone you know needs immediate emotional support, reach out to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing, texting, or chatting 988.
