YSU clinic to assist war vets

staff report

YOUNGSTOWN — In response to mental health issues that many American troops experience after returning from service overseas, the Community Counseling Clinic at Youngstown State University is participating in the “Give an Hour” program.

This program provides an opportunity for area licensed mental health professionals to donate an hour of their time each week to provide free counseling services for returning war veterans.

YSU’s “Give an Hour,” in coordination with the national program of the same name, is just starting, said Victoria Kress, associate professor of counseling and CCC director.

The program has enlisted the help of five local, licensed mental health professionals. As part of the program, servicemen and women may schedule free, individual counseling sessions with participating counselors in the CCC’s Beeghly College of Education location.

A recent report from the RAND Corp. think tank said that more than 18 percent of troops returning from service in Iraq and Afghanistan report symptoms of post–traumatic stress disorder or major depression. Nearly 19 percent of war veterans said that they have experienced a possible traumatic brain injury as a result of service, RAND reported.

In addition to the “Give an Hour” program, the CCC offers counseling services, consultations and counseling referral services at no cost to YSU students, and for a small fee — usually $1 — to community residents.

For more information, or to schedule a visit with a CCC counselor, call (330) 941–3056 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. Evening appointments are available.