Political Quotes

“I am pleased to be on the floor this evening, but I am here to discuss a significantly tragic issue that affects way too many Americans all across our country--certainly at home in Kansas--and that is the lack of treatment for mental health conditions and, in many instances, the consequence that comes from that--suicide. Sadly, veterans in particular face risks for suicide, and, unfortunately, COVID-19 has increased the problem. Veterans have a higher rate of suicide and mental health issues than people who have not served in our armed services. We know there is not a single explanation or reason for suicide, and there is no single treatment for prevention strategy. One veteran lost to suicide is one too many, and, of course, we all have the obligation to help those who have served our Nation--those who fought bravely for our country--to help fix this tragedy. Every day that we fail to act is another day we lose another 20 veterans to suicide. They need our help. I want to highlight one veteran who fought a battle with his mental health condition, CDR John Scott Hannon. Commander Hannon was a decorated Navy SEAL. I met his family through the Senator from Montana, Mr. Tester. He, like every other veteran, was more than just what his service record would show. His family and friends remember him as a passionate mental health advocate for veterans. He tried to help other veterans who faced the same challenges that he did.…”