AT EASE USA

At Ease USA (AEU) is committed to providing access to confidential trauma treatment and therapeutic support for active military, veterans, frontline healthcare workers and their loved ones, regardless of their ability to pay. AEU complements existing services offered by military and veterans organizations, with a focus on the elimination of barriers to treatment for those suffering from the impact of PTSD, moral injury and suicidal ideations.

Post-Traumatic Stress is a mental health condition that develops as a fear response to a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. Symptoms of PTSD include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. Symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to function, and many people living with PTSD are unable to work. PTSD presents differently from person to person and symptoms may evolve. People who experience PTSD are at higher risk for developing depression, drug addiction, alcohol abuse, and eating disorders, and are at higher risk for suicide.

The bureaucracy of the Military and Healthcare systems in which they work offers little protection in terms of confidentiality and have overwhelmed resources with long waiting lists. Those brave enough to seek mental health treatment risk embarrassment or professional repercussions, such as termination or discharge. Active duty military personnel must complete a 36-month waiting period after receiving treatment for PTSD or anxiety disorders before they are allowed to return to work. Finally, the persistent stigma and shaming surrounding mental health wellness prevent many people from seeking critically needed care.

AEU removes these barriers and offers person-centered behavioral health services through an in-house clinical director and a diverse Preferred Provider Network (PPN) of culturally sensitive, licensed mental health professionals who are trained in PTSD treatment. AEU utilizes many approaches, including family and couple’s therapy, one-to-one peer support, group and one-on-one therapy, and wellness programs to address PTSD.

In addition to tailoring treatment to each client’s unique needs, honoring confidentiality, and removing red tape to provide timely urgent care, AEU is dedicated to confronting the stigma surrounding mental health. Our ongoing awareness campaigns highlight survivors’ stories and encourages people to get help.

The AEU Vets4Vets program is a vital complement to clinical therapy. According to the National Center for PTSD, veterans are at least twice as likely as the general public to experience the devastating effects of PTSD, yet the majority of veterans who screen positive for mental health problems do not access treatment. Research shows that one of the strongest predictors of treatment utilization is perceived social support. Veterans and service members have much better odds of pursuing a long-term treatment journey if they feel socially connected, if they receive encouragement from friends and family, and if they know other veterans and service members who are also engaged in PTSD treatment. Vets4Vets provides opportunities for veterans and service members to build these invaluable networks of mutual support.

AEU envisions a world where PTSD no longer exists, but until that day comes, we are committed to ensuring that past and present military members, frontline healthcare workers, and their families who are impacted by PTSD have access to confidential trauma treatment.