Rashida Tlaib: “Here is a heartbreaking fact about the reality of war: Every single day in our country, about 17 veterans die by…”

“Here is a heartbreaking fact about the reality of war: Every single day in our country, about 17 veterans die by suicide. That is 17 families whose lives will never be the same. I am thinking of one of our mothers in the 12th Congressional District, Lisa Hicks-Clayton, who mourns her son, Damon, every day. We must work harder than ever to ensure that no veteran is left behind and those serving in our military receive the mental health support that they need to survive. We know that our servicemembers face mental health crises that are heightened by their experiences at war. The forever wars, Mr. Speaker, of the past decades have left behind immense trauma. Far too often, our own government and this Congress fail to provide our servicemembers and veterans with the support they need and deserve. If we cannot provide the necessary care and support for our servicemembers and veterans, then we should not be sending them off to war. {time} 1030 The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers free confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for those experiencing a mental health crisis or contemplating suicide. Veterans can use this new option by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to contact the Veterans Crisis Line. We must break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and create an environment where our veterans and servicemembers feel supported asking for help.…”