New Orleans band uses bar gigs to push veterans toward therapy
Vet Jams, a rotating group of musicians, performs in local bars to challenge the stigma around mental health in the military.
By Yara Nasser ·
A New Orleans band called Vet Jams performs at local bars to encourage veterans to seek mental health support. The group combines live country music with open conversations about therapy. Jason Davey, the band leader, served as a Marine in Iraq in 2003. He said he often tells the audience it is okay to go to therapy. He noted that people frequently turn around in surprise when he makes the announcement.
Davey enlisted in the military after his older brother died in service. His brother had signed up first, and Davey wanted to complete the enlistment they had started together. Davey later settled in New Orleans with his wife and family. He began seeing a therapist before his wife passed away about four years ago. He said that process revealed how many in the military avoid professional help due to social stigma.
Davey found connection with other veterans who understood his experiences. He said he rarely discussed his time in Iraq with his wife but shared details with strangers at a bar. He attributed this openness to a specific trust that forms between people who have undergone similar events. Three years ago, Davey partnered with Chet Pierson, an Army veteran, to form the band.
Pierson served in Desert Storm and received a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder in 1992. He recalled sitting with Davey and discussing mental health. Pierson said Davey proposed they form a band to talk about the issue while playing music. The duo has since drawn in more than 20 musicians who rotate through the lineup. The group performs for free at various venues in the metro area.
Pierson cited statistics on veteran suicide to describe the band's goal. He stated that 22 veterans die by suicide daily and 6,000 die annually. He added that more veterans kill themselves than are killed in combat. The band aims to meet veterans in informal settings where they feel comfortable. The group hopes to eventually perform at Jazz Fest. Information about the band is available at vetjams.org.
