Green ZoneGreen ZoneA location recognized by veterans as A location recognized by veterans as

a safe placea safe place

11

22

Robert Morris University

GREEN ZONE PROGRAMAn initiative to support student veterans

and educate the campus community

David L. Munn

For more information contact: munn@rmu.edu

*Adapted from Virginia Commonwealth University’s Green Zone Program

33

Learning Objectives Learning Objectives Participants will understand the expectations of a Participants will understand the expectations of a

Green Zone Ally.Green Zone Ally.

Participants will become familiar with the military Participants will become familiar with the military experience and emotional cycle of deployment.experience and emotional cycle of deployment.

Participants will become familiar with the potential Participants will become familiar with the potential issues facing student veterans and active service issues facing student veterans and active service members as they transition from base to campus.members as they transition from base to campus.

Participants will become aware of the resources Participants will become aware of the resources available to student veterans and active service available to student veterans and active service members on our campus and off campus.members on our campus and off campus.

Who is a Green Zone Ally?

Staff, faculty, and students who identify themselves as someone who knows something about the issues

and concerns faced by student veterans/active military students

as someone who is available to assist the veteran student

They are NOT expected to be experts who can “solve” the problems a sympathetic ear someone who can help the student find the

appropriate resources for problem resolution.

Commonly Used TermsCommonly Used Terms Active Service Members (ASM)Active Service Members (ASM)

Generic term which encompasses Active Duty, Generic term which encompasses Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserves personnelNational Guard, and Reserves personnel

VeteranVeteran Any individual who served in the U.S. militaryAny individual who served in the U.S. military

OEF- Operation Enduring FreedomOEF- Operation Enduring Freedom War in AfghanistanWar in Afghanistan

OIF- Operation Iraqi FreedomOIF- Operation Iraqi Freedom War in Iraq War in Iraq

55

Who is a Student Who is a Student Veteran/Active Service Veteran/Active Service Member (ASM)? Member (ASM)?

Student Veterans and ASMs are a diverse group Student Veterans and ASMs are a diverse group of individuals. They are: of individuals. They are: From all branches of the militaryFrom all branches of the military Range in age, race/ethnicity, and genderRange in age, race/ethnicity, and gender Have served during times of war and peaceHave served during times of war and peace Have different education goalsHave different education goals More likely to have familiesMore likely to have families

66

Student Veterans inStudent Veterans inHigher EducationHigher Education

2.4 million service men & women have 2.4 million service men & women have served in OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom) and served in OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom) and OEF (Operation Enduring Freedom).OEF (Operation Enduring Freedom).

77

Student Veterans inStudent Veterans inHigher EducationHigher Education

• Since the G.I. Bill took effect in 2009…Since the G.I. Bill took effect in 2009…• 877,000877,000 people, mainly veterans and their people, mainly veterans and their

dependents, have received benefits dependents, have received benefits • Costs the government Costs the government $23.7 billion$23.7 billion• More than More than $10 billion $10 billion is expected to be spent is expected to be spent

this year on veteransthis year on veterans• Plus the government will provide Plus the government will provide

approximately approximately $560 million $560 million on tuition on tuition assistance for active-duty troopassistance for active-duty troop

88

Student Veterans inStudent Veterans inHigher EducationHigher Education

• The 2008 amendments to the GI Bill resulted in The 2008 amendments to the GI Bill resulted in extended benefits for veterans that include:extended benefits for veterans that include:• Partial cost of college attendancePartial cost of college attendance• Housing AllowanceHousing Allowance• Book & supplies provisionsBook & supplies provisions• Transferability optionTransferability option

99

The Military The Military ExperienceExperience

1010

Military ExperienceMilitary Experience Why do people join the military?Why do people join the military?

EducationEducation MoneyMoney Medical CoverageMedical Coverage A CareerA Career TravelTravel CamaraderieCamaraderie DirectionDirection Real World SkillsReal World Skills HonorHonor Maintain a family legacyMaintain a family legacy** O’Brien, M. (2011). O’Brien, M. (2011). 1111

Military ExperienceMilitary ExperienceDeploymentsDeployments

Deployments last from 6-18 monthsDeployments last from 6-18 months Multiple deploymentsMultiple deployments

Some serve more than one deployment before Some serve more than one deployment before being discharged from the militarybeing discharged from the military Over 350,000 have experienced two or more Over 350,000 have experienced two or more

deploymentsdeployments

Emotional Cycle of Deployment:Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Pre-Deployment, Deployment, Sustainment, Re-Pre-Deployment, Deployment, Sustainment, Re-

Deployment, Post-DeploymentDeployment, Post-Deployment

***(Savych, 2009) 1212

Sustainment

Deployment

Post-Deployment

Redeployment

Pre-Deployment

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of DeploymentDeployment

*** (Franklin, 2009)1313

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Pre-DeploymentDeployment: Pre-Deployment

Training with long hours awayTraining with long hours away Spending more time in the field to prepare for deploymentSpending more time in the field to prepare for deployment Separation from family and friends before deploymentSeparation from family and friends before deployment

Getting affairs in orderGetting affairs in order Preparing a living will and assigning a power of attorney Preparing a living will and assigning a power of attorney

National Guard and ReservistsNational Guard and Reservists Added stress during semester due to anticipation of Added stress during semester due to anticipation of

deploymentdeployment May be called to duty while enrolled in classesMay be called to duty while enrolled in classes Having to file paperwork to withdraw from classes and stop Having to file paperwork to withdraw from classes and stop

G.I. Bill payments G.I. Bill payments

*** (Franklin, 2009) 1414

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: DeploymentDeployment: Deployment

Adjusting to being in a combat zone, on a ship, or aircraftAdjusting to being in a combat zone, on a ship, or aircraft Adjusting to new climate, terrain, and languageAdjusting to new climate, terrain, and language Dealing with emotions regarding separation from family, Dealing with emotions regarding separation from family,

friends, and partnersfriends, and partners Maintaining a strong sense of awarenessMaintaining a strong sense of awareness

HypervigilanceHypervigilance Must maintain some level of emotional controlMust maintain some level of emotional control

May not be able to react immediately to loss/trauma but are May not be able to react immediately to loss/trauma but are encouraged to deal with loss/trauma while deployed and upon encouraged to deal with loss/trauma while deployed and upon returnreturn

*** (Franklin, 2009) 1515

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: DeploymentDeployment: Deployment

Persistent hypervigilance and arousal Persistent hypervigilance and arousal Sleep deprivation- fatigueSleep deprivation- fatigue Periods of intense boredomPeriods of intense boredom Some have experiencedSome have experienced

FirefightsFirefights Buddies wounded or killed Buddies wounded or killed RPGs: Rocket Propelled Grenades RPGs: Rocket Propelled Grenades IEDs: Improvised Explosive Devices IEDs: Improvised Explosive Devices Car bombsCar bombs Suicide bombingsSuicide bombings Crowd controlCrowd control

***(Hoge et al., 2004)1616

1717

Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Sustainment & RedeploymentSustainment & Redeployment

Sustainment New Routines established, new sources of

support Feel more in control, Independence Confidence: “I can do this!”

Redeployment There is an Anticipation of Homecoming that is

now gone Excitement Apprehension

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Post-DeploymentDeployment: Post-Deployment

HomecomingHomecoming The “honeymoon” stage is when first returning home to family The “honeymoon” stage is when first returning home to family

and friendsand friends Difficult adjustment phase for both ASM and familyDifficult adjustment phase for both ASM and family

Family has adapted to life without ASM and now has to re-Family has adapted to life without ASM and now has to re-establish rolesestablish roles

Adaptive behaviors for war are maladaptive at homeAdaptive behaviors for war are maladaptive at home Aggressive driving = Road RageAggressive driving = Road Rage Tactical Awareness = HypervigilanceTactical Awareness = Hypervigilance

Develop a “New Normal”Develop a “New Normal” Adjusting to life after it has changedAdjusting to life after it has changed

Dealing with the emotions of warDealing with the emotions of war Video Video http://youtu.be/3aVJ14QlkWc

*** (Franklin, 2009) 1818

Emotional Cycle of Emotional Cycle of Deployment: Family Deployment: Family members/Dependentsmembers/Dependents

Family members or dependents of Veterans/ASM may need support too They may be experiencing

Separation from a loved one Difficulty concentrating Difficulty transitioning Difficulty adjusting to role changes Loss or injuries of a loved one

1919

Transitioning from Transitioning from Base to CampusBase to Campus

2020

Transition StrengthsTransition Strengths Veterans/ASMs transitioning out of the military onto Veterans/ASMs transitioning out of the military onto

college campuses bring a unique perspectivecollege campuses bring a unique perspective Military trainingMilitary training Life experienceLife experience Established IdentityEstablished Identity A more worldly viewA more worldly view

Skills taught in the military help students to be successfulSkills taught in the military help students to be successful LeadershipLeadership Motivation/Goal/Mission FocusedMotivation/Goal/Mission Focused Time ManagementTime Management Work EthicWork Ethic Stress ManagementStress Management

2121

Transition DifficultiesTransition Difficulties Issues that may arise during the transition process Issues that may arise during the transition process

can become barriers to successcan become barriers to success Difficulty translating their military skills into a new professionDifficulty translating their military skills into a new profession Difficulty switching gears with a new focus that is unrelated to Difficulty switching gears with a new focus that is unrelated to

military experiencemilitary experience Military skills & training may not translate into college creditsMilitary skills & training may not translate into college credits Universities may have difficulty deciphering transfer credits for Universities may have difficulty deciphering transfer credits for

those who have started and stopped higher education at those who have started and stopped higher education at multiple institutionsmultiple institutions

Difficulty using the GI BillDifficulty using the GI Bill Late fees due to late payment of VA BenefitsLate fees due to late payment of VA Benefits Late payment can prevent them from registering for classes, Late payment can prevent them from registering for classes,

applying for graduation, and receiving transcripts applying for graduation, and receiving transcripts

2222

Transition DifficultiesTransition Difficulties Being an older studentBeing an older student

Freshman 20+ years old with 18 year old classmatesFreshman 20+ years old with 18 year old classmates Living off campusLiving off campus

Feeling isolated from classmatesFeeling isolated from classmates AlienationAlienation

Veterans/ASMs may find it difficult to integrate on campus Veterans/ASMs may find it difficult to integrate on campus because their life experiences within the military differ because their life experiences within the military differ significantly from most other students and faculty.significantly from most other students and faculty.

Insensitivity of classmates, faculty, and others on Insensitivity of classmates, faculty, and others on campus in regards to discussion of war and militarycampus in regards to discussion of war and military Veterans/ASMs may not agree with discussions or may feel attacked Veterans/ASMs may not agree with discussions or may feel attacked

when asked about their experiencewhen asked about their experience

2323

Transition DifficultiesTransition Difficulties Things to keep in mind about Student Things to keep in mind about Student

Veterans in the classroom:Veterans in the classroom: Some may Some may

Have difficulty relating to classmatesHave difficulty relating to classmates Find loud noises to be disturbing Find loud noises to be disturbing Become anxious with changes in the classroomBecome anxious with changes in the classroom Have excessive absencesHave excessive absences Have PTSD or TBIHave PTSD or TBI Video Video http://youtu.be/jIjKev7-Wmw

***(Pfeffer, 2010) 2424

Considering the Needs of Considering the Needs of Student Veterans with Student Veterans with DisabilitiesDisabilities

It is estimated that 23% to 31% of Veterans/ASM It is estimated that 23% to 31% of Veterans/ASM of OIF/OEF have PTSD symptoms and 20% have of OIF/OEF have PTSD symptoms and 20% have mild TBIs. SOME of those are coming to our mild TBIs. SOME of those are coming to our campus.campus. New DisabilityNew Disability

Student Veterans/ASMs may be experiencing a disability Student Veterans/ASMs may be experiencing a disability for the first time in their lifefor the first time in their life

May be unaware of services on campus for persons May be unaware of services on campus for persons with an identified disabilitywith an identified disability

May not want to identify as having a disabilityMay not want to identify as having a disability May not want to disclose problems because of stigmaMay not want to disclose problems because of stigma Identification of disability may have implications for future Identification of disability may have implications for future

in the military for those who are still active service in the military for those who are still active service membersmembers

*** (Jones, Young, & Leppma, 2010; Thomas et al., 2010)*** (Jones, Young, & Leppma, 2010; Thomas et al., 2010)2525

Post-Traumatic Stress Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD occurs after an individual has seen PTSD occurs after an individual has seen or experienced a traumatic event that or experienced a traumatic event that involved the threat of injury or death involved the threat of injury or death

PTSD is experienced by some, but PTSD is experienced by some, but certainly not all Student Veterans/ASMscertainly not all Student Veterans/ASMs Have some knowledge of PTSD, Have some knowledge of PTSD, BUT do not BUT do not

expect expect that every Student Veteran/ASM will that every Student Veteran/ASM will have these symptomshave these symptoms

***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)2626

PTSD SymptomsPTSD Symptoms Repeated "reliving" of the event, which disturbs Repeated "reliving" of the event, which disturbs

day-to-day activityday-to-day activity Flashback episodes, where the event seems to be Flashback episodes, where the event seems to be

happening again and againhappening again and again AvoidanceAvoidance

Emotional "numbing," or feeling as though Emotional "numbing," or feeling as though you do not care about anythingyou do not care about anything

ArousalArousal Excess awareness (hypervigilance)Excess awareness (hypervigilance)

***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)***(American Psychiatric Association, 2000)2727

PTSD in the ClassroomPTSD in the Classroom They may They may

Sit in the back of the classroom so they can Sit in the back of the classroom so they can have a clear view of everything around themhave a clear view of everything around them

Be easily startled by noises (pens dropping, Be easily startled by noises (pens dropping, shuffling in a backpack, whispering or other shuffling in a backpack, whispering or other noises from classmates) noises from classmates)

Be withdrawn from class discussionBe withdrawn from class discussion Have difficulty maintaining emotional control Have difficulty maintaining emotional control

during difficult topics during difficult topics 2828

Post-Traumatic Stress Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderDisorder

Remember: although many Remember: although many Veterans/ASMs may have stressful or Veterans/ASMs may have stressful or traumatic experiences, not all develop traumatic experiences, not all develop Post-Traumatic Stress DisorderPost-Traumatic Stress Disorder

2929

Traumatic Brain Injury Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)(TBI)

A blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head A blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the function of the brain. injury that disrupts the function of the brain. Severity of injury can varySeverity of injury can vary

Mild: brief change in mental status or consciousnessMild: brief change in mental status or consciousness Severe: extended period of unconsciousness or Severe: extended period of unconsciousness or

amnesia after the injuryamnesia after the injury

Some, but certainly not all Student Veterans, Some, but certainly not all Student Veterans, may have experienced a TBImay have experienced a TBI Have some knowledge of TBI, Have some knowledge of TBI, BUT do not expectBUT do not expect

that all Student Veterans/ASMs will have that all Student Veterans/ASMs will have experienced a TBIexperienced a TBI

***(Traumaticbraininjury.com, 2010) 3030

Traumatic Brain InjuryTraumatic Brain Injury Combat experience is one of the main risk factors for Combat experience is one of the main risk factors for

sustaining a TBIsustaining a TBI Exposure to blasts through explosions and roadside bombsExposure to blasts through explosions and roadside bombs

Improvements in body armor and helmets have Improvements in body armor and helmets have increased the occurrence of TBIincreased the occurrence of TBI Likelihood of survival from blasts due to sophisticated Likelihood of survival from blasts due to sophisticated

equipment, unlike from previous warsequipment, unlike from previous wars TBI often goes undiagnosed because symptoms TBI often goes undiagnosed because symptoms

may not appear until weeks latermay not appear until weeks later Especially emotional or personality changes which are difficult Especially emotional or personality changes which are difficult

for strangers to identifyfor strangers to identify Difficult to differentiate between TBI and PTSD because they Difficult to differentiate between TBI and PTSD because they

have several overlapping symptomshave several overlapping symptoms

***(Traumaticbraininjury.com, 2010) 3131

TBI SymptomsTBI Symptoms CognitionCognition

Motor/Sensory DisturbancesMotor/Sensory Disturbances Impairments in: Impairments in:

LanguageLanguage CommunicationCommunication AttentionAttention ConcentrationConcentration MemoryMemory Learning New InformationLearning New Information Speed of Information ProcessingSpeed of Information Processing JudgmentJudgment Decision-MakingDecision-Making Problem-SolvingProblem-Solving InsightInsight

***(Traumaticbraininjury.com, 2010) 3232

TBI SymptomsTBI Symptoms MoodMood

Apathy/DepressionApathy/Depression AnxietyAnxiety IrritabilityIrritability Emotional LiabilityEmotional Liability InsensitivityInsensitivity EgocentricityEgocentricity

BehaviorBehavior Lack of InitiationLack of Initiation DisinhibitionDisinhibition ImpulsivityImpulsivity RestlessnessRestlessness AggressionAggression AgitationAgitation

***(Traumaticbraininjury.com, 2010) 3333

TBI in the ClassroomTBI in the Classroom They may:They may:

Have difficulty expressing themselves (tongue Have difficulty expressing themselves (tongue tied) tied)

Show restless behaviorsShow restless behaviors Example: Constant fidgeting and tapping pens or feetExample: Constant fidgeting and tapping pens or feet

Show inappropriate reactions to discussion Show inappropriate reactions to discussion Example: Becoming aggressive, easily irritated, agitated, or Example: Becoming aggressive, easily irritated, agitated, or

insensitive to others in the classroominsensitive to others in the classroom Be withdrawn or not participating in class Be withdrawn or not participating in class

discussiondiscussion3434

Other Wounds of WarOther Wounds of War Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma or disease A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma or disease damages the spinal cord and results in partial or damages the spinal cord and results in partial or complete paralysiscomplete paralysis

Military Sexual Trauma (MST)Military Sexual Trauma (MST) Includes sexual assault, sexual threats, bullying, Includes sexual assault, sexual threats, bullying,

and unwanted touching or grabbing that and unwanted touching or grabbing that occurred while in the militaryoccurred while in the military

***(Spinal Cord Injuries, 2010; VA MST, 2010)***(Spinal Cord Injuries, 2010; VA MST, 2010)3535

Considering the Needs of Student Considering the Needs of Student Veterans with DisabilitiesVeterans with Disabilities

What the Green Zone volunteers should know:What the Green Zone volunteers should know: Inquire about the issues they are experiencing to Inquire about the issues they are experiencing to

better provide the appropriate resourcesbetter provide the appropriate resources Become familiar with information provided by the Become familiar with information provided by the

students with disabilities support office on campus for students with disabilities support office on campus for those who may request such services those who may request such services Students may need extra help navigating the system and Students may need extra help navigating the system and

understanding what help is available to them understanding what help is available to them Provide the student with contact information if requested Provide the student with contact information if requested

for office serving students with disabilitiesfor office serving students with disabilities Assist in making an appointment, if neededAssist in making an appointment, if needed

3636

Consider the Mental Health Consider the Mental Health Needs of Student VeteransNeeds of Student Veterans

AnxietyAnxiety DepressionDepression Substance AbuseSubstance Abuse

3737

Consider the Mental Health Consider the Mental Health Needs of Student VeteransNeeds of Student Veterans

Barriers to seeking helpBarriers to seeking help Stigma regarding counseling and help-Stigma regarding counseling and help-

seekingseeking Concerns about confidentialityConcerns about confidentiality Worries about being labeledWorries about being labeled Fears of acknowledging their own painFears of acknowledging their own pain Concerns about being judgedConcerns about being judged

3838

Increased Suicide RiskIncreased Suicide Risk There are approximately 25 million veterans in the There are approximately 25 million veterans in the

United StatesUnited States Among veteran and current military, suicide is a Among veteran and current military, suicide is a

national public health concern: Recent estimates national public health concern: Recent estimates suggest current or former military represent 20% of all suggest current or former military represent 20% of all known suicides in the United States. known suicides in the United States.

**(Center for Disease Control, 2009)**(Center for Disease Control, 2009)

3939

Easing the TransitionEasing the Transition Have an open dialogue about frustrationsHave an open dialogue about frustrations Discuss career goalsDiscuss career goals Provide them with information about various Provide them with information about various

services and resources available as seems services and resources available as seems appropriate appropriate

Remember that each student is unique in their Remember that each student is unique in their experiencesexperiences

4040

Suggested Questions To Ask The Suggested Questions To Ask The Veteran In Front Of YouVeteran In Front Of You

Express appreciation for their service Express appreciation for their service What branch of serviceWhat branch of service How long they were in the military How long they were in the military What was your job or specialtyWhat was your job or specialty How many deploymentsHow many deployments

When, where, how longWhen, where, how long How has your experience at the university beenHow has your experience at the university been Could you be called back to active dutyCould you be called back to active duty Can you still be deployedCan you still be deployed Do not ask if they have killed someoneDo not ask if they have killed someone Do not ask how they were injuredDo not ask how they were injured

4141

Easing the TransitionEasing the Transition What Student Veterans want faculty/staff to know:What Student Veterans want faculty/staff to know:

““We are accustomed to being successful and may be too proud to We are accustomed to being successful and may be too proud to ask for help.” ask for help.”

““We are having normal reactions to an abnormal experience.”We are having normal reactions to an abnormal experience.” ““No two veterans are alike.” (Generalize)No two veterans are alike.” (Generalize) ““Each of us has had different experiences.”Each of us has had different experiences.” ““Do Not assume that you know my politics or beliefs just because I Do Not assume that you know my politics or beliefs just because I

was in the military.” (Stereotyping)was in the military.” (Stereotyping) ““I may or may not be ready to talk about my experiences.”I may or may not be ready to talk about my experiences.” ““Trust can be an issue for me.”Trust can be an issue for me.” ““Being friendly and listening can go a long way toward building trust.”Being friendly and listening can go a long way toward building trust.” ““Do Not be afraid of me.”Do Not be afraid of me.”

***(Pfeffer, 2010)4242

Things to RememberThings to Remember Students veterans are a unique population with Students veterans are a unique population with

different experiences.different experiences. There are numerous ways to help Student There are numerous ways to help Student

Veterans/ASM just as there are for other Veterans/ASM just as there are for other student populations. student populations.

Developing trust with this population is Developing trust with this population is important.important.

Following-up with the Student Veterans/ASM Following-up with the Student Veterans/ASM and carrying out what you say you will do is and carrying out what you say you will do is essential. essential.

4343

4444

CASE CASE STUDIESSTUDIES

DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Student Veteran approaches you because A Student Veteran approaches you because she is struggling in her classes. She goes to she is struggling in her classes. She goes to class every day, takes notes, and allots time class every day, takes notes, and allots time each day to study. She feels frustrated each day to study. She feels frustrated because no matter how much time she puts because no matter how much time she puts into it, she is not getting the grades she into it, she is not getting the grades she wants. wants.

How do you help her? How do you help her? 4545

DiscussionDiscussion Ask the veteran if she has always had difficulties with school work, or if Ask the veteran if she has always had difficulties with school work, or if

this is new for herthis is new for her Assist the veteran in searching for classroom help Assist the veteran in searching for classroom help

Tell her about the academic support resourcesTell her about the academic support resources Ask her if she is in a study group or would want to join oneAsk her if she is in a study group or would want to join one Recommend talking to her instructor or T.A.Recommend talking to her instructor or T.A.

If she acknowledges that she has a disability, ask if she has gone to the If she acknowledges that she has a disability, ask if she has gone to the Disability Services to see if she is eligible for accommodations Disability Services to see if she is eligible for accommodations

Have a discussion about her well beingHave a discussion about her well being Is she sleeping and eating well?Is she sleeping and eating well?

Have a discussion about her academic success and implications for her Have a discussion about her academic success and implications for her GI BillGI Bill

4646

DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Reservist sees the “Green Zone” sticker A Reservist sees the “Green Zone” sticker on your door and comes in because she has on your door and comes in because she has received orders for a week long training that received orders for a week long training that will occur during the middle of the semester. will occur during the middle of the semester. She has an exam during that week and her She has an exam during that week and her professor states in the syllabus that there professor states in the syllabus that there are absolutely no make-up exams.are absolutely no make-up exams.

4747

DiscussionDiscussion Please ask the Veteran to contact either Heather Please ask the Veteran to contact either Heather

Jericho at Jericho at jericho@rmu.edu or 412-397-5498 or Dr. or 412-397-5498 or Dr. Dan Rota at Dan Rota at Rota@rmu.edu or 412-397-5424 for or 412-397-5424 for counsel. They will direct the Veteran to the counsel. They will direct the Veteran to the appropriate academic resources. appropriate academic resources.

4848

Discussion Discussion Scenario Scenario

A Student Veteran comes to you because he A Student Veteran comes to you because he is frustrated about his classes. The material is frustrated about his classes. The material he is learning is exactly what he learned he is learning is exactly what he learned while he was in the military. He does not while he was in the military. He does not understand why he has to repeat the course. understand why he has to repeat the course.

What do you do? What do you do?

4949

DiscussionDiscussion Empathize with his frustrations Empathize with his frustrations Treat this student like any other advisee who has come to Treat this student like any other advisee who has come to

you with an issueyou with an issue Explain the advantages of already having the experience Explain the advantages of already having the experience

and knowledge and knowledge Explain how he can help others in his class and take a Explain how he can help others in his class and take a

leadership role leadership role Ask questions about his major and experience in the Ask questions about his major and experience in the

militarymilitary Help him schedule an appointment with his academic Help him schedule an appointment with his academic

advisoradvisor

5050

DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Student Veteran comes to you because A Student Veteran comes to you because she/he feels very alone on campus. She/He she/he feels very alone on campus. She/He was used to being constantly surrounded by was used to being constantly surrounded by individuals who share her/his goals and individuals who share her/his goals and values. Since he has come to campus, he values. Since he has come to campus, he has not met anyone like that. He feels has not met anyone like that. He feels isolated and alone. isolated and alone.

How do you help this student? How do you help this student? 5151

DiscussionDiscussion Inform him of what resources are available on campusInform him of what resources are available on campus Help link the Veteran to other VeteransHelp link the Veteran to other Veterans

Student Veterans Association at RMUStudent Veterans Association at RMU Vet CenterVet Center

Ask the Veteran what interests him or herAsk the Veteran what interests him or her Suggest joining student groups on campus that have similar Suggest joining student groups on campus that have similar

interests.interests. Pay attention to signs of depression or suicidal thinkingPay attention to signs of depression or suicidal thinking

Counseling CenterCounseling Center Follow-up with studentFollow-up with student

5252

DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Student Veteran sees the “Green Zone” A Student Veteran sees the “Green Zone” sticker on your door and decides to stop in sticker on your door and decides to stop in to chat. She is having difficulty deciding on a to chat. She is having difficulty deciding on a major. She has a lot of skills from her major. She has a lot of skills from her military experience but is not sure she wants military experience but is not sure she wants to stay on that path. to stay on that path.

How do you help her? How do you help her?

5353

DiscussionDiscussion Under the G.I. Bill requirements, Student Veterans must declare a major Under the G.I. Bill requirements, Student Veterans must declare a major

within two semesters, which may cause additional stresswithin two semesters, which may cause additional stress Listen to Student and ask questions about her military training Listen to Student and ask questions about her military training Ask what she enjoyed the most; encourage her think about whether or not Ask what she enjoyed the most; encourage her think about whether or not

she is interested in transitioning those skills into her education and future she is interested in transitioning those skills into her education and future careercareer

Ask her “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” Ask her “Where do you see yourself in 10 years?” Suggest to her to make an appointment with her Career CounselorSuggest to her to make an appointment with her Career Counselor Many websites have been created to assist veterans in translating their Many websites have been created to assist veterans in translating their

military skills to civilian jobsmilitary skills to civilian jobs http://www.military.com/skills-translator/mos-translator http://www.careerbuilder.com/Article/CB-517-Job-Search-Translating-Your-Skil

ls-From-Military-Jargon-to-Civilian-Language/

5454

DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Student Veteran comes to you for his A Student Veteran comes to you for his scheduled academic advising appointment. scheduled academic advising appointment. During the session he mentions that he did During the session he mentions that he did two tours in Iraq. two tours in Iraq.

How do you respond? How do you respond?

5555

DiscussionDiscussion Show interestShow interest If the Veteran wants to talk about his experience, listen If the Veteran wants to talk about his experience, listen

and provide a safe environment to the student. and provide a safe environment to the student. Listening to the Veteran can go a long way toward building Listening to the Veteran can go a long way toward building

rapport.rapport. If you have limited time to be with the Veteran, If you have limited time to be with the Veteran,

express your interest in his service and set up another express your interest in his service and set up another appointment to further discuss his experiencesappointment to further discuss his experiences Ask how his experiences may be helping or hindering his Ask how his experiences may be helping or hindering his

student experiencestudent experience Remember that every situation is going to be differentRemember that every situation is going to be different

5656

DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Student Veteran comes to you because he A Student Veteran comes to you because he is nearly on academic probation. He has is nearly on academic probation. He has trouble getting to class because it is a trouble getting to class because it is a struggle for him to get out of bed most days. struggle for him to get out of bed most days.

How do you help him? How do you help him?

5757

DiscussionDiscussion Have an open dialogue about the classes that he can not Have an open dialogue about the classes that he can not

wake up forwake up for It may simply be that he does not have an interest in the classes and It may simply be that he does not have an interest in the classes and

can not wake up for themcan not wake up for them Is he struggling with these same issues in other areas of his life?Is he struggling with these same issues in other areas of his life?

Discuss with the studentDiscuss with the student Look for signs of anxiety and depressionLook for signs of anxiety and depression

Refer to Counseling CenterRefer to Counseling Center Provide information about available resources Provide information about available resources Encourage student to meet with Dan Rota or Heather Encourage student to meet with Dan Rota or Heather

JerichoJericho Encourage student to meet with his Academic AdvisorEncourage student to meet with his Academic Advisor Follow up with the Veteran/ASM to see how he is doingFollow up with the Veteran/ASM to see how he is doing

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DiscussionDiscussion ScenarioScenario

A Student Veteran who has a spinal cord A Student Veteran who has a spinal cord injury comes to your office. He read in his injury comes to your office. He read in his syllabus that special accommodations can syllabus that special accommodations can be made for students who have a disability. be made for students who have a disability. He currently does not have any issues in his He currently does not have any issues in his classes but wants more information on how classes but wants more information on how they can help him in the future.they can help him in the future.

How do you help him? How do you help him? 5959

DiscussionDiscussion

Refer student to Refer student to Stephen Lukens, Disability CounselorStephen Lukens, Disability CounselorCenter for Student SuccessCenter for Student SuccessNicolson Center 2nd Floor (Basement)Nicolson Center 2nd Floor (Basement)Phone: 412-397-6884Phone: 412-397-6884Email: lukens@rmu.eduEmail: lukens@rmu.edu

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ResourcesResources

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Resources on CampusResources on Campus Center for Student SuccessCenter for Student Success

Cassandra L. Oden, M.A. Director, Center for Student Success 

oden@rmu.edu 412-397-6848 phone 412-397-6316 fax Nicholson Center 2nd 

Stephen Lukens, Disability CounselorStephen Lukens, Disability CounselorCenter for Student SuccessCenter for Student SuccessNicolson Center 2nd Floor (Basement)Nicolson Center 2nd Floor (Basement)Phone: 412-397-6884Phone: 412-397-6884Email: lukens@rmu.eduEmail: lukens@rmu.edu

Counseling CenterCounseling Center Holly Harmon, CounselorHolly Harmon, Counselor

harmonh@rmu.edu harmonh@rmu.edu 412-397-6863412-397-6863Patrick Henry Center Patrick Henry Center

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Veterans Education & Training CenterDaniel R. Rota, Ph.D. Director of Veterans Education and Training Servicesrota@rmu.edu 412-397-5424 phone 412-397-4848 fax Jefferson Center Ll Heather A. Jericho Academic Services Specialist Veterans Education & Training Centerjericho@rmu.edu 412-397-5498 phone 412-397-4848 fax Jefferson Center Ll 

Career Center David Munn, Career Counselor412.397.6205 phone/412.397.6326 faxmunn@rmu.eduBenjamin Rush Center

Resources on CampusResources on Campus

Veterans Administration Veterans Administration ResourcesResources GI BillGI Bill

http://gibill.va.gov/ http://gibill.va.gov/benefits/index.html http://www.govoepp.state.sc.us/va/benefits.ht

ml

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VA ResourcesVA Resources Veteran Administration WebsiteVeteran Administration Website

www.va.gov Student Veterans need their DD-214 formsStudent Veterans need their DD-214 forms List of VA hospitals and community outreach centersList of VA hospitals and community outreach centers Connects Veterans to health benefitsConnects Veterans to health benefits

5 year eligibility for no-cost health care for conditions 5 year eligibility for no-cost health care for conditions related to servicerelated to service

Mental health treatmentMental health treatment Vet Centers for outpatient mental health treatmentVet Centers for outpatient mental health treatment

http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/

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Veteran AssociationsVeteran Associations Wounded Warrior ProjectWounded Warrior Project

www.woundedwarriorproject.org Mission “To honor and empower wounded Mission “To honor and empower wounded

warriors.”warriors.” Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

www.vfw.org Its mission is to Its mission is to "honor the dead by helping "honor the dead by helping

the living"the living" through veterans' service, through veterans' service, community service, national security and a community service, national security and a strong national defensestrong national defense

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Veteran AssociationsVeteran Associations Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of AmericaIraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America

www.iava.org Providing assistance, advocacy, educations, Providing assistance, advocacy, educations,

and support to veterans of both conflictsand support to veterans of both conflicts Disabled Veterans AssociationDisabled Veterans Association

www.dav.org DAV is an advocacy group that helps ensure DAV is an advocacy group that helps ensure

that active duty and veterans receive the that active duty and veterans receive the benefits and compensations that were benefits and compensations that were guaranteed to them when they enlistedguaranteed to them when they enlisted

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PTSD ResourcesPTSD Resources The National Center for PTSDThe National Center for PTSD

http://www.ncptsd.va.gov/ncmain/resources/ After Deployment is a mental wellness After Deployment is a mental wellness

resource guide for soldiers. resource guide for soldiers. http://afterdeployment.org/

PTSD and WomenPTSD and Womenhttp://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/wha/wha_ptsd_bha.htm

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TBI ResourcesTBI Resources VA Polytrauma System of CareVA Polytrauma System of Care http://www.polytrauma.va.gov/ Defense and Veterans Brain Injury CenterDefense and Veterans Brain Injury Center

http://www.dvbic.org/ National Center for Injury Prevention and National Center for Injury Prevention and

Control information on TBI Control information on TBI http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/tbi/tbibook.pdf

Soldiers with Traumatic Brain Injury brochureSoldiers with Traumatic Brain Injury brochurehttp://www.neuroskills.com/veterans/soldierswithtbi.pdf

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SCI ResourcesSCI Resources VA Spinal Cord InjuryVA Spinal Cord Injury

www.sci.va.gov National Spinal Cord Injury AssociationNational Spinal Cord Injury Association

www.spinalcorg.org

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Substance Abuse ResourcesSubstance Abuse Resources National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/ http://www.niaaa.nih.gov/

Alcoholics AnonymousAlcoholics Anonymoushttp://www.aa.orghttp://www.aa.org

National Institute on Drug Abuse National Institute on Drug Abuse http://www.nida.nih.gov/http://www.nida.nih.gov/

National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information National Clearinghouse on Alcohol and Drug Information http://www.health.gov/http://www.health.gov/

Army Center for Substance Abuse Programs with links to world-wide ASAP locations Army Center for Substance Abuse Programs with links to world-wide ASAP locations http://www.acsap.army.mil/http://www.acsap.army.mil/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration 1-800-662-HELP1-800-662-HELPhttp://getfit.samhsa.gov/Drugs/http://getfit.samhsa.gov/Drugs/http://getfit.samhsa.gov/Alcohol/http://getfit.samhsa.gov/Alcohol/

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Military Sexual Trauma Military Sexual Trauma ResourcesResources

VA MST informationVA MST information www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.aspwww.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp

Vet Center informationVet Center information http://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Military_Sexual_Trauma.asphttp://www.vetcenter.va.gov/Military_Sexual_Trauma.asp MyDuty.milMyDuty.mil

www.myduty.milwww.myduty.mil Provides information and guidance on reporting MSTProvides information and guidance on reporting MST

Military Rape Crisis CenterMilitary Rape Crisis Center Has a chart for off-base rape crisis centers located near Has a chart for off-base rape crisis centers located near

military basesmilitary bases www.stopmilitaryrape.org/local_resourceswww.stopmilitaryrape.org/local_resources

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Suicide Prevention Suicide Prevention ResourcesResources

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1 800-273-TALK (8255)1 800-273-TALK (8255) Press 1 for VeteransPress 1 for Veterans

Veterans Crisis LineVeterans Crisis Line 1(800)-273-8255 and Press 1 for Veterans1(800)-273-8255 and Press 1 for Veterans http://veteranscrisisline.net/ (Live Online Chat) http://veteranscrisisline.net/ (Live Online Chat) Text 838255Text 838255

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention American Foundation for Suicide Prevention http://www.afsp.orghttp://www.afsp.org

Suicide Prevention Resource Center Suicide Prevention Resource Center http://www.sprc.orghttp://www.sprc.org

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Mental Health Resources Mental Health Resources Military One SourceMilitary One Source

http://www.militaryonesource.milhttp://www.militaryonesource.mil Dstress (for Marines): www.dstressline.com/ Dstress (for Marines): www.dstressline.com/ Not Alone: www.notalone.comNot Alone: www.notalone.com www.maketheconnection.netwww.maketheconnection.net http://afterdeployment.org/http://afterdeployment.org/ www.militarymentalhealth.org/www.militarymentalhealth.org/

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ReferencesReferences American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2010). http://www.afsp.orgAmerican Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2010). http://www.afsp.org American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental

disorders (4th ed., text rev.). Washington, DC: Author.disorders (4th ed., text rev.). Washington, DC: Author. Center for Disease Control and Precention (2009). http://www.cdc.govCenter for Disease Control and Precention (2009). http://www.cdc.gov Gewirtz, A., DeGarmo, D., Polushy, M., Khaylis, A., & Erbes, C. (2010). Post-traumatic stress Gewirtz, A., DeGarmo, D., Polushy, M., Khaylis, A., & Erbes, C. (2010). Post-traumatic stress

symptoms among National Guard soldiers deployed to Iraq: Associations with parenting symptoms among National Guard soldiers deployed to Iraq: Associations with parenting behaviors and couple adjustment. behaviors and couple adjustment. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78(5), 599-(5), 599-610. 610.

Franklin, K. (2009). Understanding the challenges of marriage, parenting, and family life for Franklin, K. (2009). Understanding the challenges of marriage, parenting, and family life for returning veterans and military families: The Deployment Cycle and Reintegration Challenges.returning veterans and military families: The Deployment Cycle and Reintegration Challenges.

Hoge, C., Castro, C., Messer, J., McGurk, D., Cotting, D., & Koffman, R. (2004). Combat duty Hoge, C., Castro, C., Messer, J., McGurk, D., Cotting, D., & Koffman, R. (2004). Combat duty in Iraq and Afghanistan: Mental health problems and barriers to care. in Iraq and Afghanistan: Mental health problems and barriers to care. New England Journal of New England Journal of Medicine, 35Medicine, 35(1), 13-22.(1), 13-22.

Hoge, E.A., Austin, E.D. & Pollack, M.H. (2007). Resilience: Research evidence and Hoge, E.A., Austin, E.D. & Pollack, M.H. (2007). Resilience: Research evidence and conceptual considerations for posttraumatic stress disorder. conceptual considerations for posttraumatic stress disorder. Depression and Anxiety, 24Depression and Anxiety, 24, 139-, 139-152.152.

Jones, K., Young, T., & Leppma, M. (2010). Mild traumatic brain injury and post traumatic Jones, K., Young, T., & Leppma, M. (2010). Mild traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder in returning Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans: Implications for assessment stress disorder in returning Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans: Implications for assessment and diagnosis. and diagnosis. Journal of Counseling and Development, 88Journal of Counseling and Development, 88(3), 372-376. (3), 372-376.

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ReferencesReferences Mundt., J. (2009). PTSD in the new generation of combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan: What Mundt., J. (2009). PTSD in the new generation of combat veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan: What

the non-VA clinician needs to know. Medical Educational Services Ins. Professional Development the non-VA clinician needs to know. Medical Educational Services Ins. Professional Development Network. Eau, WI. Network. Eau, WI.

O’Brien, M. (2011). Top 10 reasons to join the military. Military.com. Retrieved July, 3, 2012 from O’Brien, M. (2011). Top 10 reasons to join the military. Military.com. Retrieved July, 3, 2012 from http://enlist.military.com/68/top-10-reasons-to-join-the-military/.http://enlist.military.com/68/top-10-reasons-to-join-the-military/.

Pfeffer, D. (2010). Quality Instructional Services for Veterans And Military Family Members, Webinar.Pfeffer, D. (2010). Quality Instructional Services for Veterans And Military Family Members, Webinar. Santrock., J. (2005). Santrock., J. (2005). Adolescence.Adolescence. McGrawHill. New York, NY. McGrawHill. New York, NY. Savych, B. (2009). Effects of deployment on spouses of military personnel. Savych, B. (2009). Effects of deployment on spouses of military personnel. Humanities and Social Humanities and Social

Sciences,Sciences, 3295. 3295. Schupp., J. (2010). SERV VCU. Supportive education for the returning veteran. Helping Virginia’s Schupp., J. (2010). SERV VCU. Supportive education for the returning veteran. Helping Virginia’s

Best, Brightest, and Bravest get their degree, Webinar.Best, Brightest, and Bravest get their degree, Webinar. Spinal Cord Injuries. (2010). www.sci.va.govSpinal Cord Injuries. (2010). www.sci.va.gov Thomas, J. Wilk, J. Riviere, L., McGurk, D., Castro, C., Hoge, C. (2010) Prevalence of mental health Thomas, J. Wilk, J. Riviere, L., McGurk, D., Castro, C., Hoge, C. (2010) Prevalence of mental health

problems and functional impairment among active component National Guard soldiers 3 and 12 problems and functional impairment among active component National Guard soldiers 3 and 12 months following combat in Iraq. months following combat in Iraq. Archives of General Psychiatry, 67Archives of General Psychiatry, 67(6), 614-623.(6), 614-623.

TraumaticBrainInjury.com. (2010). www.traumaticbraininjury.comTraumaticBrainInjury.com. (2010). www.traumaticbraininjury.com VA MST. (2010). www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.aspVA MST. (2010). www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome.asp VCU. (2010). Veteran’s Census; Fall 2010.VCU. (2010). Veteran’s Census; Fall 2010.

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