Now and throughout the year, the Illinois Warrior Assistance
Program, IWAP, is a free resource that is available for veterans and
their families. Veterans or loved ones can call to ask questions, be
screened for PTSD or traumatic brain injury, and receive free
follow-on counseling when needed.
"It is important for veterans to understand that seeking help for
symptoms of PTSD is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength,"
said Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Director Erica
Borggren. "The good news for Illinois veterans and their families is
that there are confidential treatment options available so they can
access the help they need and deserve."
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Day or night, IWAP is available for veterans and their families
dealing with PTSD or other challenges associated with returning from
combat. IWAP also provides coverage for outpatient services that
treat PTSD, specifically for Illinois veterans who do not have
insurance or immediate access to VA-covered services.
Signs and symptoms of PTSD vary and may include trouble sleeping,
concentrating or remembering; anger, irritability or anxiousness;
or, frightening thoughts or nightmares. Diagnosis of PTSD occurs
through initial screenings and testing, which are available through
IWAP and other IDVA programs.
IWAP is part of Gov. Pat Quinn's mission and commitment to
support the men and women of the armed forces and ensure that
veterans and current service members receive the benefits and
services they have earned.
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As a free and confidential resource provided by the state of
Illinois, IWAP is a separate entity and bears no connection to the
U.S. armed forces or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Veterans can access the program's benefits 24 hours a day, seven
days a week via an online chat option at
www.illinoiswarrior.com
or through IWAP's toll-free line at 1-866-554-4927.
Public pension squeeze
IDVA is the state agency missioned to serving veterans, their
families and their survivors. IDVA accomplishes this through its
four Veterans' Homes, its 70-plus service offices, and its special
projects and partnerships to address emerging issues such as
veterans' unemployment and PTSD. Unfortunately, like all state
agencies, IDVA is threatened by Illinois' pension crisis. In a time
like this, the pension issue is an issue for veterans. To learn more
and join the grass-roots movement to fix the pension crisis this
legislative session, visit
www.thisismyillinois.com.
[Text from
Illinois
Department of Veterans' Affairs file received from the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information]
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