Across the country, researchers and policymakers are trying to find new and better ways to support veterans returning home. In Michigan, one such program is making headlines: the Buddy to Buddy program, a peer support system designed to connect post-9/11 veterans to a host of resources.
The Buddy to Buddy program was developed by the University of Michigan, and it made its debut in 2009. Today, more than 120 volunteer veterans have assisted nearly 2000 post-9/11 veterans throughout Michigan. The primary goal, according to the program’s website, is to provide support as early on as possible, helping veterans avoid a situation in which one stressor creates a cascade of other issues.
To that end, the veteran volunteers with the Buddy to Buddy program are prepared to listen and to connect fellow veterans to a range of resources. Post-9/11 veterans are invited to call in with questions or concerns about any topic, including health, finances, legal issues, substance abuse, psychological concerns and relationship problems. The program does not provide direct assistance in any of these areas, but volunteers are trained to assist veterans in gaining access to help in these and other areas.
Still, the most valuable part of Buddy to Buddy may be the opportunity to discuss issues with another veteran who truly understands.
Little scientific research exists to support the efficacy of peer support programs, but medical researchers are looking to change that. At Stanford University in California, the School of Medicine has undertaken a major new veteran peer support program that they hope will provide data to confirm the validity of, and the need for more, peer support programs for veterans. According to the researchers, many support programs may fail veterans simply because the service providers cannot understand the veteran’s perspective.
As mental health issues and unemployment among post-9/11 veterans continue to rise after employment of traditional treatment approaches, the Buddy to Buddy program in Michigan provides hope. The program is currently available throughout the state, and program staff express the hope that one day, the program will be available nationwide.
Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800
