Glenn Thompson: “May is Mental Health Month, a time when we are encouraged to break down the stigmas that surround mental health.…”

“May is Mental Health Month, a time when we are encouraged to break down the stigmas that surround mental health. Normalizing conversations about depression, anxiety, and other conditions will help those affected by mental illness seek the quality care that they need and deserve. One group that is overwhelmingly impacted by mental health disorders is veterans. Unfortunately, we know that about 22 veterans commit suicide each and every day. Congress understands how dire the situation has become and is working diligently to find a solution. Fortunately, we have made progress over the past few years. Last year's passage of the VA Mission Act significantly increased the care available to our veterans, ensuring they have access to a medical professional before resorting to suicide. This is a step in the right direction, but more can certainly be done. These men and women answer the call of duty, and as a Nation, we must care for them when they return home. Until veteran suicide rates dwindle to zero, I will continue to work with my colleagues to support veterans' mental health programs. ____________________”