A highlight for the day for local vets is a high five from Garretson Elementary students. Students led a Veteran’s Day program at 2:15 on Nov. 11th. At 7 p.m., Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs for South Dakota, Aaron Pollard, spoke to gathered local veterans. He spoke candidly about how, during troubled times, it’s Veterans who are the glue that hold society together. He also spoke candidly about veterans and suicide, and the duty of those present to support each other and their fellow veterans so that comrades are not taken from us too soon.
Veterans and Suicide
Veterans Day, November 11th, is an important day for every American and is intended to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love for their country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. This day of remembrance celebrates the service of all U.S. military veterans. Communities across the country plan events to honor those who have served and are currently serving. As we celebrate and recognize these brave men and women, we should also consider the struggles that they go through with mental illness.
Suicide is a national problem in the U.S. and a major concern for active-duty service members and military veterans. Members of the military may experience a variety of difficult and traumatic events including combat, natural disasters, and physical assault.
According to the 2022 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, there were 6,146 Veteran suicide deaths in 2020. That is 31.7 deaths per 100,000. During that year, suicide was the second leading cause of death among Veterans under age 45. The suicide rate for Veterans was 57.3% greater than for non-Veteran U.S. adults.
Veterans can come home from service carrying a weight they did not go in with. Without the right help, that weight can seem like too much, leading some Veterans to consider, or carry out, suicide. Some of the warning signs that Veterans exhibit include feelings of hopelessness, acting agitated, struggling with anxiety, insomnia, outburst of anger or rage, an increase in substance use or abuse, and isolating themselves from the people close to them. Other factors related to the higher risk of suicide among Veterans are related to undiagnosed or untreated conditions, such as PTSD or mood disorders, which can increase a person’s overall risk of suicide.
The VA offers a wide range of treatment programs for Veterans and their families. Also, “Vets for Warriors” is a peer support network with Veterans answering the phone for those in need. The number is 1-855-838-8255. Veterans may also use the Veterans Crisis Line Number where there is 24/7 crisis support. Dial 988, then press 1.
The Jason Foundation is another valuable resource for those struggling with suicidal ideation. Many times, a Veteran will exhibit clear warning signs prior to an attempt. By knowing the warning signs, and knowing how to help, you could save a life. Visit The Jason Foundation’s website to learn more about suicide, the warning signs, and how you can help make a difference. You can find the website at www.jasonfoundation.com.
