ALBANY, N.Y. (WBNG)— The New York State Assembly heard testimony Wednesday from experts on mental health resources available to veterans.
The hearing follows a recent report by the RAND Corporation, which found that 21% of veterans across New York state are not receiving the mental health care they need following their service.
During the hearing, officials examined the role that the Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program and others like it can play in helping veterans move through their trauma.
“We’re looking at the impact of having veterans engage in non-clinical supports, the mentoring, the social activities, things that give them purpose, passion, and hope to be able to transition from military, active military, to civilian life,” said Audrey Erazo-Trivino, associate commissioner of the Office of Prevention Health Initiatives.
Eraza-Trivino said the Dwyer Peer Support Program is successful because of its ability to be tailored to the needs of the community.
Other issues highlighted by respondents in RAND’s report include lack of childcare, lack of transportation, high treatment costs and stigma.
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