Introduction
There is an ongoing crisis of U.S. Veterans suffering from depression. Twenty-two veterans commit suicide every day. This is a serious topic and an opportunity to act. Depression is an internal battle that can lead to serious health risks and we must tackle the underlying causes of depression in returning veterans. Discovering the causes of depression in veterans is the first step in finding common ground where veterans can begin to find treatment. Not only will this website discuss the causes, it will also go into depth on prevention techniques and the forms of treatment that are available, and unfortunately those that are not. The final goal of this website is to provide a place where veterans can feel that they are not alone, and to discuss an easy, step by step procedure in obtaining the treatment they deserve.
Themes
The themes are laid out in a manner that begins with educating and ends with steps on taking action to treat the symptoms of depression. When asking what depression means to veterans, I have received so many different answers. Depression is different for everybody so I would like to begin with an effort to show what the symptoms are and why those symptoms may exist. Once the veterans understand what the signs and symptoms of depression are, I would like to then begin with prevention techniques. I find it paramount that veterans and active duty military members have all prevention techniques in their tool box prior to beginning civilian life. I chose to end my research with treatment options. I understand that I cannot diagnose nor treat depression myself, but I would like to have as many available steps possible to ensure veterans know where to go to begin treatment. Going out and seeking help is not an easy task for a veteran, but I plan to do everything I can to create a simple template where all information is available in one stop. All refrenses used on this page can be found under the "reference page" tab.
My name is Nathan Gunter and I am studying Communication Studies at Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. I am designing this website as a Health Communication project. Prior to my studies, I served 4 years in the United State's Navy onboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. My time in service brought me to 16 different countries operating under Operation Enduring Freedom. Once transitioning to the civilian world, I obtained a job at the Veteran and Military Center on Wright State's campus, assisting in veterans with their educational process. I soon discovered that myself and many other veterans would have a difficult time transitioning into the civilian world, often experiencing feelings of isolation and depression. This has motivated me to design a website that not only informs veterans on the serious risk of depression, but lead them in a direction of both prevention and treatment. Veterans should never feel alone.
About Me
Thesis
Twenty-two American Veterans commit suicide daily. After a life of service and combat, the reality is that research and improved reintegration strategies are needed to address this tragedy. The credibility of the VA hospital, which is the primary care for many veterans, is lacking and additional depression prevention and treatment programs are needed.
(Clickable link)
The Wright State Veteran & Military Center provides student veterans and dependents a multipurpose space for academics while assisting them in the tedious transition process from military to student.