We have found this video to be extremely useful in understanding the issue. We thank Vet Prevail.
Below is the information presented in the video.
After returning home from active duty, our veterans often face a new battle at home.
In 2009, we lost more to suicide then to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan combined.
On average 18 veterans take their lives every day, that’s one death every 1.3 hours.
The suicide rate has been rising every year since the beginning of the Iraq war.
Almost 40% of veterans who have served in Iraq are diagnosed with a mental health issue like depression and post-traumatic stress.
One third receive only minimal care. Another third receive no care at all.
Compared to the civilian population, veterans with depression or PTSD are: more likely to be homeless, more likely to suffer from substance abuse, 2 times more likely to get divorced, 3 times more likely to be unemployed, and 4 times more likely to attempt suicide.
Mental health is a serious and growing issue in the veteran community. But the reality is: they are not receiving the care they deserve.
Now consider this. Compared to the general population, veterans without serious mental health issues are: better educated, more likely to be employed, earn a higher average salary, and are more likely to vote.
America’s veteran community is: proud, strong, hardworking, intelligent, and prosperous. It’s one of our nation’s greatest assets.
A healthy veteran is a successful citizen and chances are you know one. They are our sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, friends, cousins, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, grandparents, co-workers, classmates, in-laws, neighbors, teammates, employees, peers, colleagues.
Fellow Americans, when our veterans return from serving their country, let’s make sure their country is ready to serve them.
They keep us safe. Help keep them safe.
