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AGENCY TESTIMONY
Avoiding the 'victim-hero narrative' for veterans
0:19:05
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47 sec
Commissioner Hendon emphasizes the importance of avoiding a 'victim-hero narrative' when discussing veterans and their mental health, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the veteran community.
- The commissioner stresses not to infantilize or assume all veterans are 'broken'
- He points out that PTSD rates in the veteran community (7%) are similar to those in the general population (6%)
- The testimony highlights that depression levels in veterans are comparable to national averages, countering stereotypes about veteran mental health
James Hendon
0:19:05
These issues are important to our community, but we must avoid a victim hero narrative.
0:19:10
Do not infantilize us.
0:19:12
Or assume as soon as you see a US military service member past or present or member of their family, don't assume that they are broken.
0:19:19
The PTSD rate and veteran community as a whole, remember 7% have experienced PTSD at some point in their lives.
0:19:26
As similar to the PTSD rate in entire country, same rate for America's 6%.
0:19:30
Likewise, the levels of depression in the veteran community as a whole.
0:19:34
As mentioned, 25% of veterans in New York state have experienced PTSD or depression.
0:19:39
Is similar to the levels of depression in the nation.
0:19:42
According to a 2023 Gallup study, 29% of Americans have experienced depression at some point in their lives.
0:19:49
So the first issue is just about victim hero to call that out.