Veterans Day Email Update
Veterans Day is a time for us to support those who have served our country. While there is much reason to celebrate, Veterans need our help: A 2019 report from the US Department of Veterans Affairs reported that:
The number of Veteran suicides exceeded 6,000 each year from 2008 to 2017 (the latest available data),
In 2017, there were 20 Veteran suicides per day (Regular+National Guard+Reservists),
In 2017, the Veteran suicide rate was 1.5 times that of non-Veteran adults, after adjusting for age and gender.
You can find the report here.
One of the ways to support Veterans is to do a "buddy check". A phone call, email, text, or driveway chat can make the difference in the life of someone who was on the front lines and is struggling to reacclimate to life at home. Or who misses the camaraderie and structure that so many of us experienced while we served.
A simple conversation, donation, or social media post can inspire a Veteran to live their hero.within:
I was fortunate to do two podcasts talking about Veteran mental health.
In the first podcast, I speak with my Canadian brother about life on the edge of the continent. Eventually, we wind up talking about how we can support Veterans through "buddy checks". It is available now (transcripts and Apple link as well).
In the second, I speak with someone who chose to remain anonymous so she could talk about her Veteran ex-husband who struggled with--and ultimately fell victim to--alcoholism. I was inspired to share her story because it is from the perspective of someone who lived with a Veteran who was suffering. I usually speak to Veterans and this was an opportunity to hear the other side of the story. It will be released later this week.
Please check my facebook, twitter, or instagram for the announcement.