Each state’s bar association maintains lists of attorneys who provide free legal services to military members. Untreated sleep apnea disrupts natural body functions that interfere with normal metabolic processes and cellular regeneration. It also triggers daytime fatigue and impairs thinking, memory, concentration, and motor function.

Health

For veterans, health care is a vital concern. Many veterans find it challenging to receive the superior medical treatment they are entitled to, regardless of where they reside or which branch they serve. 

It might be challenging to navigate the legal help for a Veteran with sleep apnea, but veterans should get the assistance they need to get the benefits they are entitled to. 

Fortunately, there are steps the government is taking to make things better. One patient-centered approach the VA has adopted, for instance, strongly emphasizes coordination and communication between patients, their families, and primary care physicians.

This strategy has improved access to care and decreased wait times for appointments. Additionally, the VA has expanded its telemedicine programs and provided more transportation options for people unable to attend in-person appointments.

Regretfully, the VA still has to do more to ensure its veterans receive high-quality care. For instance, the organization is looking for new ways to support female veterans who face particular health problems like post-traumatic stress disorder and a higher suicide risk than their male counterparts. 

Work

A significant number of veterans with mental illness are unemployed and have poor job outcomes that threaten their economic security over time. Evidence-based supported employment (SE) practices have been shown to improve work outcomes for veterans with mental illness, but there are still barriers that must be addressed.

A nationwide sample of 114 VA SE frontline staff, supervisors, and upper-level managers was used in this mixed-methods study to assess work barriers and facilitators for veterans with mental illness using a survey, open-ended questions, and interviews. Quantitative descriptive statistics characterized work barriers and facilitators, while qualitative themes revealed additional vital elements influencing employment success.

The highest-rated work facilitators were veteran motivation, a good match between the veteran and the job, and the assistance of SE services. The most prominent work barriers were related to psychological stress, a range of health problems, and employer stigma. These barriers can be improved through enhanced resources, targeted staff training, robust integration with VA mental health services, and vigorous efforts to form relationships with employers.

Financial

When a veteran is struggling financially, it can affect all aspects of their life. Stress about money can lead to problems with sleep, relationships, and family. Fortunately, there are financial assistance programs that can help veterans get back on solid footing.

Legal assistance can be provided for various issues, including military divorce, separation and custody, paternity questions, property division, child support, and alimony. Attorneys working with the Military Pro Bono Project or directly with a JAG can provide this service free of charge.

Other financial assistance can include personal debt relief programs that can assist active-duty personnel and veterans needing a helping hand when they’re drowning in bills. These services can help stretch a limited budget and prevent evictions or foreclosures. Some programs provide emergency financial assistance, such as cash grants for food or shelter. The best way to find out what’s available is to visit Military OneSource, the official online resource for service members and their families.