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American Legion Post 24 in Greenville hosted a mental health speaking engagement on Thursday, Mar. 7, to support veterans in their transition to civilian life. The event featured Karen Sullins, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and owner of Helping Hands Professional Counseling, who addressed the challenges veterans face and provided resources for mental health support.

Post Commander Liza Berry emphasized the importance of these events.

“We try every month to do something to help veterans. Usually on the first Thursday.” Berry highlighted the need for mental health resources as aging members face different challenges. 

“As our members get older, they need different resources and one of those needs is mental health.”

Karen Sullins is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She spoke to veterans about the difficulties they may encounter when reintegrating into civilian life. 

“I’ve been doing this type of work for over three years,” Sullins said. “The Veterans Association (VA) will send people to me, especially the older generation of combat veterans. Sometimes the transition to civilian life, just getting back into their regular lives, is difficult and can cause some people to isolate.” 

Sullins aims to provide hope and encourage veterans to recognize signs of mental health issues like PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder).

“I got to go and just talk to the veterans,” Sullins said. “To let them know that they’re not alone and there is hope.” 

The event exemplified The American Legion‘s mission statement of commitment to selfless service and community engagement. By offering a platform for veterans to access mental health support, Post 24 demonstrated its dedication to veterans’ well-being. This aligns with The American Legion’s values of supporting veterans’ transition to civilian life and raising awareness about mental health challenges.

The speaking engagement also reflected The American Legion’s vision of veterans strengthening America. Through initiatives like this, The American Legion continues to uphold its values of advocating for veterans and their families, promoting American values and patriotism, and engaging with local communities to meet their unique needs.