Understanding the Veteran experience: Avoiding assumptions and providing dignity to a diverse community with Wanda Wright, Director of the Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University

Thanks for tuning into the expanding access podcast. Ready to take your knowledge, network, and experience to the next level? Then join us at the BHT Conference in San Diego on November 11-13. Join thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and payers focused on expanding access and improving outcomes in mental health, behavioral health, substance abuse, and IDD.Save $100 on your registration ⁠here ⁠by using your podcast promo code “Podcast100” Far too many women veterans are overlooked, leading to gaps in care, resources, and recognition. In this episode brought to you by Luminary Labs, Wanda Wright, Director of the Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement at Arizona State University, shares her mission to advocate for women veterans and improve access to resources. She explains that many women do not recognize themselves as veterans, which, combined with cultural bias and lack of awareness, leads to higher rates of suicide and homelessness compared to men. Director Wright highlights the importance of asking “Have you served?” in healthcare settings and stresses that collaboration among the VA, state agencies, nonprofits, and local groups is essential to provide effective support, especially in rural areas. While progress has been made with more women joining the military and rising to leadership, she emphasizes that continued advocacy and community involvement are crucial to breaking down barriers and saving lives. Tune in as Wanda Wright shares her powerful journey and insights on breaking barriers, advocating for women veterans, and building stronger systems of support! Resources: Connect with and follow Wanda Wright on LinkedIn. Follow the Arizona State University on LinkedIn and visit their Office for Veteran and Military Academic Engagement website. Check out Wanda Wright’s paper, The Social Determinants of Suicide among Female Service Members and Veterans: Running Title: Social Determinants of Suicide, here.