On the recordSeptember 26, 2023
September is National Suicide Prevention Month. The CDC data shows that nearly 50,000 Americans died by suicide last year--an increase of 2.6 percent nationwide. Our veterans are at special risk. The risk of suicide for veterans is 57.3 percent higher than nonveterans, and 17 veterans are still lost to suicide every single day. In the 21st century, four times more servicemembers and veterans have died by suicide than have died in military combat. We can and must put an end to this crisis. We can do it with fast access to care, innovative mental health services, and continuing to strengthen the VA's partnership with our community-based organizations. The Veterans Crisis Line plays a vital role in suicide prevention. Veterans and their families can talk safely and anonymously with a trained crisis counselor. This type of access is proven to save lives. We have a sacred obligation to those who defended our country. In this Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, please reach out to anyone who you might think would be struggling. Remember, you can dial 988 on your phone and press 1. Let me say that again. You can dial 988 and press 1 on your phone. You are not alone. We have access to help for you. Honoring William ``Bill'' Black
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