It’s not hyperbole to say that making sure our veterans receive access to robust mental healthcare services is a life-or-death issue that demands Congress’ immediate attention. That’s why we’ve worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to craft legislation that would increase the number of Vet Centers across the U.S., especially in underserved areas across New Jersey. These Vet Centers would be a lifeline to the 50% of veterans who currently do not receive mental health treatment despite being in need, providing mental health counseling to veterans, service members and their loved ones, survivors of military sexual assault, and Gold Star families.
We also must recognize the gender-specific mental health needs of veterans. As results of a 2010 study showed, veterans who experienced pregnancy after returning home from Operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom were twice as likely to be diagnosed with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions as their fellow service members.
Our conversations with female veterans about these horrifying statistics led us to spearhead an effort in the Senate to provide greater support to pregnant veterans. Our DOULA for VA Act of 2021 would establish a pilot program across several states, including New Jersey, that would encourage the use of doulas in the Veterans Health Administration to assist veterans during their pregnancy and improve maternal health outcomes.
If successful, the program could reduce childbirth complications, incentivize veterans to receive care during and after their pregnancy, and expand to cover more pregnant veterans across the nation. Beyond the pilot program, we have also advanced legislation from the Black Maternal Momnibus Act that would specifically study the scope of America’s maternal health crisis among veterans and support maternity care coordination programs for veterans at VA facilities.
Throughout our time in Congress, we’ve had the honor of speaking with and advocating for, the nearly 400,000 veterans who call New Jersey home. We listened as they shared personal accounts of what compelled them to serve this country, the time they spent defending our nation abroad, and the trials and triumphs they experienced when they returned home. Though these brave people have hailed from different cities and towns, backgrounds and beliefs, and though their life’s journeys varied, they have all possessed an undeniable faith that America is worth protecting.
It’s up to us now to make sure that faith wasn’t misplaced. It’s up to us to make sure that veterans and their loved ones are given the resources, care, and support they have earned and deserved. This solemn obligation doesn’t just start and end on Veterans Day, but every day of the year.
