Veteran Aleksandr Afanasjev Discusses Mental Health and Support for Veterans
Aleksandr Afanasjev, a three-time Afghanistan veteran, discusses his mental health challenges following combat. He highlights a lack of mental health support in Estonia, which he believes leads to higher suicide rates among veterans. Afanasjev’s journey into civilian life emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the initiation of the “Anname Au!” support initiative for veterans.
Military veteran Aleksandr Afanasjev detailed his experiences during three missions in Afghanistan in an interview on ETV show “Ringvaade”. He discussed the severe mental health challenges faced by military personnel and underscored the importance of addressing these issues for veterans. Afanasjev shared that he did not seek assistance for his mental health until he left the military, fearing repercussions on his career.
He noted a troubling trend where Estonia’s veteran suicide rate is higher than casualties in foreign missions due to inadequate mental health support. Afanasjev emphasized, “Every man chooses a mission in life that he wants to carry out,” acknowledging the irreversible impacts of combat stress, which can resurface after returning home.
He recounted a traumatic incident from 2010 when a comrade died, an experience that continues to haunt him. Despite this, his survival from three missions motivates him to confront life’s challenges. Afanasjev also mentioned the added stress of caring for his disabled parents, which led him to seek therapy four years post-military, as he was initially reluctant to reach out.
Today, he works as a leadership coach, actively turning his challenges into opportunities. The “Anname Au!” initiative, aiming to support veterans, began over a decade ago, inspired by international remembrance practices. The blue hepatica flower, symbolizing this support, was chosen as a symbol of recognition for veterans, with Veterans Day in Estonia observed on April 23.
Afanasjev’s experiences illustrate the profound mental health struggles veterans face, exacerbated by fear of stigma in seeking help. His transition into civilian life highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting veterans, underscoring the critical need for mental health resources. The “Anname Au!” initiative continues to foster awareness and support for those who have served, promoting a culture of honor and recognition for veterans during their struggles in civilian life.
Original Source: news.err.ee
