Since the end of Canada's mission in Afghanistan in 2014, we have observed a steady rise in these claims. Approximately 29% of veterans receiving a disability benefit for PTSD served in Afghanistan, underscoring the lasting impact of the mission.
Veterans Affairs Canada, or VAC, understands the impact of service on physical and mental health and provides a range of support measures designed to address these challenges.
These include treatment and care options, financial support, rehabilitation support and support measures to provide assistance throughout a veteran's transition process.
For example, since April 2022, a new mental health benefits program has been in place. This program automatically covers treatment costs for veterans with mental health issues while their application for disability benefits is being reviewed.
VAC also offers access to a network of 21 operational stress injury clinics and satellite locations as well as to thousands of registered mental health professionals across Canada. Veterans can take advantage of in-person, virtual one-on-one supports and online options.
Families play a central role in supporting mental health outcomes. The operational stress injury social support program provides confidential support to military members, veterans and their families through trained peers who have lived through similar experiences.
Leaving the military is not as simple as changing jobs. It is a complete shift in identity, structure and community. Service members may lose their daily routine and missions that have defined their lives for years. They move from a close-knit team environment to a civilian world that often may not understand their military culture.
Our national client survey shows that 33% of clients transitioning out of the military have reported difficulty transitioning to life after service. Of these, 64% attributed this difficulty to health challenges, while 60% felt as though they lost their sense of purpose.
To provide support during this critical period, VAC is working closely with the Canadian Armed Forces to ensure continuity of care and mental health support during the transition from service to post-service life.
It is thanks to this collaboration that the Joint Suicide Prevention Strategy was launched in 2017. The strategy builds on VAC's seven domains of well-being and the strong foundation of existing programs. More psychologists and psychiatrists have been added to health care teams, and improvements now allow for remote consultations.
Ultimately, preventing suicide is not only about programs and policies but also about building a culture of care that values our veterans and their families, recognizing the warning signs of mental health challenges and providing the support and connection that can save lives.
Families, peers and communities are essential to this work, ensuring that veterans are not navigating these challenges alone. It is through this collective effort that we honour the service of our veterans, protect their well-being and uphold our commitment to those who have given us so much.
Thank you, Madam Chair and members.
We are happy to take your questions.