Veterans Voice: New stamp is part of effort to heal PTSD
The U.S. Postal Service recently issued the Healing PTSD semipostal stamp to help raise funds for those diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. The Healing PTSD semipostal stamp is being sold for 65 cents at post offices and online. The price reflects the cost of first-class postage, plus an amount to fund PTSD research through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
The National Center for PTSD’s website defines post-traumatic stress disorder as a mental-health condition developed “after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault.”
PTSD is more prevalent among veterans than in the general population. Data from the 2003 National Comorbidity Survey estimated the lifetime prevalence of PTSD among the adult American population was 6.8%. Results from the National Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Study indicated that 15.2% of males and 8.1% of females who served in that theater were diagnosed with PTSD. The lifetime prevalence of PTSD was found to be 30.9% for men and 26.9% for women.
The National Center for PTSD cites the prevalence of PTSD in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom to be between 11% and 20%, and for Gulf War veterans — Operation Desert Storm — to be about 12%.
“We provide a breadth of services to our veterans in the VA Providence Healthcare System,” said William Unger, a psychologist at the Providence VA Medical Center. “We also offer telehealth services for those veterans who have difficulty coming to the hospital.”
In addition to cognitive behavioral therapy, Unger cited specific programs to address sleep issues, depression and substance abuse, three common conditions associated with PTSD. In total, “we offer 18 different evidence-based psychotherapy treatments. The VA is a leader in the effort [to help those with PTSD]. “
Forty million semipostal stamps have been printed. They will be sold until the supply is depleted. Customers may purchase stamps and other philatelic products through The Postal Store at usps.com/shop, by calling 800-STAMP24 (800-782-6724), by mail through USA Philatelic or at post offices nationwide.
The stamp features a photographic illustration of a green plant sprouting from the ground, which is covered in fallen leaves. The image is intended to symbolize the PTSD healing process. Art director Greg Breeding designed the stamp with original art by Mark Laita.
“The Postal Service is honored to issue this semipostal stamp as a powerful symbol of the healing process, growth and hope for tens of millions of Americans who experience PTSD,” said David C. Williams, vice chairman of the postal service's board of governors. “With the issuance of this stamp, the nation renews its commitment to raise funds to help treat soldiers, veterans, first responders, health care providers and other individuals dealing with this condition.”
Chuck Denny, founder of the American Veteran Foundation, submitted the proposal for the stamp.
VA News
• To ensure that Rhode Island veterans using transportation from the VA Providence to the VA Boston arrive at their appointments on time, shuttle transportation will now depart at 5:45 a.m., beginning Feb. 3. Call (401) 457-3387 to reserve a seat. Patients using the shuttle must be capable of walking and entering/exiting vehicles without mobility assistance. (Those requiring mobility assistance should call (401) 273-7100, ext. 3550.)
• The Providence VA Medical Center wants to help veterans quit smoking and stay tobacco free. Using evidence-based treatment options, including counseling and medication, the free treatment is available in person, online and via telemedicine.
Walk-in clinics require no preregistration and are offered twice a week: Mondays, 1–2 p.m., 3rd Floor, B-Wing, check-in desk – individual counseling and medication visit with a pharmacist, or Wednesdays, 9 – 10 a.m., Primary Care Waiting Area 2, 1st floor – group counseling and individual medication visit with a pharmacist.
If you would prefer to schedule a clinic visit for counseling and medication, call (401) 273-7100 ext. 4210 or ext. 3694. Counseling is available in Providence, by phone or video chat.
Additional resources:
• Free telephone telephone-based program: (855) QUIT-VET or (855) 784-8838.
• Free mobile program: text VET to 47848 or use Stay Quit Coach app.
• Free online support: smokefree.gov/vet
• Assistance is also available at the New Bedford, Middletown and Hyannis CBOCs. Please call (401) 273-7100, ext. 3694 or ext. 4210, for more information.
Do you know a veteran with an interesting story? Do you offer a program or service focused on serving retired military? Do you have a calendar of regularly scheduled events for veterans in 2020? Email Mary K. Talbot at ThoseWhoServedAmerica@gmail.com.
Events
• Jan. 20, monthly meeting of DAV Chapter 6, 5-6:30 p.m., 113 Beach St., Westerly.
• Jan. 20, monthly meeting of VFW Post 306, 6 p.m., 171 Fountain St., Pawtucket.
• Jan. 25, Post 9/11 Veterans Social Engagement Get Together, 5-8 p.m., hosted by the Kelley-Gazzerro VFW Post 2812 and the VFW Dept. of R.I. 1418 Plainfield St., Cranston. Free refreshments and music by DJ Tony Weaver. Meet other post- 9/11 veterans, get VA benefits information and claim assistance, learn about the VFW and post-9/11 veterans partnership, and give input on how to help fellow veterans. RSVP by Jan. 24 to raymond.denisewich@gmail.com.
• Jan. 20, monthly meeting of DAV Chapter 6, 5-6:30 p.m., 113 Beach St., Westerly.
• Jan. 20, monthly meeting of VFW Post 306, 6 p.m., 171 Fountain St., Pawtucket.
• Jan. 25, Post 9/11 Veterans Social Engagement Get Together, 5-8 p.m., hosted by the Kelley-Gazzerro VFW Post 2812 and the VFW Dept. of R.I. 1418 Plainfield St., Cranston. Free refreshments and music by DJ Tony Weaver. Meet other post- 9/11 veterans, get VA benefits information and claim assistance, learn about the VFW and post-9/11 veterans partnership, and give input on how to help fellow veterans. RSVP by Jan. 24 to raymond.denisewich@gmail.com.
Events
