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From the Vice President for Student Affairs

Posted: Wednesday, September 1, 2021

Resources for Military-Aligned Students

Recent events surrounding U.S. foreign policy in Afghanistan may have a particular effect on our military-affiliated student community this semester. This stress comes on the heels of our return to campus after more than a year of shutdown and confusion surrounding the pandemic.

Common Reactions
As a result of current events in Afghanistan, veterans and other military-affiliated students (dependents, spouses, active service members, and ROTC cadets) may

  • feel frustrated, sad, helpless, or distressed;
  • feel angry or betrayed;
  • experience an increase in mental health symptoms such as PTSD, depression, and anxiety;
  • sleep poorly;
  • experience an increase in substance abuse;
  • try to avoid all reminders or media;
  • shy away from social situations;
  • have recurring military or homecoming memories;
  • experience moral distress about their service.

Feeling distress is a normal reaction to negative or traumatic events. If you encounter any students or colleagues who seem to be struggling with the situation, please connect them with the campus Veteran and Military Services Office or Weigel Wellness Center. Sometimes having another veteran to relate to is helpful.

Listed below are some additional resources to support military-affiliated students:

Please email Brad Baumgardner, coordinator of veteran and military services, with any questions or concerns at baumgabd@buffalostate.edu or vetservices@buffalostate.edu.

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