American Legion hosts mental health speakers
Published on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at 1:32 p.m.
- Licensed professional counselor Karen Sullins speaks to veterans at American Legion Post 24. Photo courtesy: helphandspcc.org
Greenville Veterans Affairs Post 24 hosted a talk on mental health on Thursday, March 7, to help veterans transition to civilian life. The event featured Karen Sullins, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and owner of Helping Hands Professional Counseling, who addressed the challenges faced by veterans and provided resources for mental health support. .
Post Commander Lisa Berry emphasized the importance of these events.
“Every month we try to do something to help our veterans, usually on the first Thursday.” Berry said mental health resources are needed as our aging membership faces different challenges. emphasized the need for
“As our members get older, they need different resources, and one of those needs is mental health.”
Karen Sullins is a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). She spoke to veterans about the challenges they may encounter when rejoining civilian life.
“I've been doing this type of work for over three years,” Sullins said. “The Veterans Association (VA) will send veterans to me, especially older generations. In some cases, the transition to civilian life, the return to normal life, is difficult and People in the department may become isolated.”
Sullins aims to give veterans hope and encourage them to recognize the signs of mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“You have to go and talk to the veterans,” Sullins said. “To let them know that they are not alone and that there is hope.”
This event exemplified the American Veterans Association's mission statement demonstrates a commitment to selfless service and community involvement. Post 24 has demonstrated its dedication to the well-being of veterans by providing a platform where veterans can access mental health support. This is consistent with the American Legion's values of supporting veterans' transition to civilian life and raising awareness about mental health issues.
The speaking engagement also reflected the American Legion's vision that veterans strengthen America. Through these efforts, The American Legion continues to uphold our values of advocating for veterans and their families, promoting American values and patriotism, and meeting their unique needs while engaging with our communities.
