Mental health is one of the most critical factors in our day-to-day lives. As society becomes more aware of the effects of poor mental health, many programs have emerged to help people overcome past trauma and embrace a brighter future. However, for veterans, mental health is a severe struggle that does not receive adequate resources or attention. As a society that focuses so much of our time on mental health, why is there still a lack of funding and awareness for the mental health of those who defend our country?
One man is dedicated to changing this blatant lack of support. Robert Luna, a Coast Guard veteran and retired petty officer, is walking across the United States to raise awareness of veterans’ mental health.
Why The Long Walk?
Robert Luna served in the United States Coast Guard for twenty-eight years and is familiar with the stigma of mental health in the military. Determined to change this stigma, raise awareness, and gather support, Robert has begun a 2,200-mile trek across the United States. He began in Alabama and will reach the Coast Guard base in California by September.
But Robert isn’t just taking a long walk to raise awareness for military veterans’ mental health. He’s also creating a support system and an extensive list of resources along the way. As he walks from city to city, he meets with mental health professionals, veterans, and community leaders to encourage support for veteran’s mental health.
Robert has also partnered with non-profit organizations that provide mental health resources and aid to veterans and active-duty service members. His walk is one of dedication, fortitude, and kindness. His entire journey is documented through social media, which has garnered further support and visibility for the cause.
Robert Luna’s Cause
Robert Luna’s cause should be at the forefront of our communities and society. Frequently, it’s difficult to admit when we are struggling with our mental health, and for military veterans, the stigma behind this is even more profound. Robert aims to change this and bring awareness to the importance of speaking out and asking for help.
We should all be more aware of and willing to support incredible causes like Luna’s. As he walks to encourage mental health awareness for military veterans, reflect and ask yourself why this hasn’t been brought to the forefront sooner. We all need support and help throughout our lives. Robert knows the journey will be worth it if he only helps one person, but believes he can create lasting change for many military service members.
Conclusion
Everyone should be aware of military veterans’ mental health needs. In an era of equality and mental health services, providing adequate care to those who protect us should be commonplace. If you are interested in supporting this cause, you can follow Robert’s journey on his social media platforms and donate to his cause. Right now, military veterans and active members are not provided with adequate mental health services. However, change begins with a single step in the right direction, and Robert Luna is taking thousands.