Military veterans of all ages are choosing to take their own life and it's a problem all across the country.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, there have been more than 6,000 veteran suicides a year since 2001 and suicide is the second leading cause of death for veterans under the age of 45. It's an issue that isn't talked about enough, and the VA is trying to change the discussion with outreach programs.
Alabama's Challenge veterans well-being town hall was focused around veteran suicide prevention. It was held Wednesday afternoon at the Riverchase Galleria.
The state's commissioner for the department of veterans affairs is Kent Davis. Davis has served our country for more than 30 years before taking on this position. Davis knows just how important it is to have this town hall and have these discussions.
"It's a sad topic. It may seem strange during the Christmas season talking about it, because its supposed to be a season of joy and family but it's also a time for some where depression kicks in for veterans," said Davis.
Davis said on average, every 2.4 days a veteran takes his or her own life in Alabama.
"That's tragic, that's far too high," said Davis. "We know the availability of mental health plays a part in it, the stigma of mental health problems, poverty, we know there a certain populations that are much higher risk. Women veterans are much more prevalent in the suicide statistics."
It's an alarming statistic that the general manager at the Riverchase Galleria knows first hand.
Mike White was a Navy SEAL for 10 years. White said he has been through programs at the VA also, which is why he wanted to help put on the event in the Galleria.
"I've lost a couple teammates in 2022, this year, so it's something near and dear to me and it's a pandemic that needs to be addressed," said White. "I have a t-shirt, be sure to check on your friends and that's what all the veterans need to know. They are not alone and they shouldn't suffer in silence."
If you or a veteran you know is showing signs of being suicidal, you can call the veterans crisis line by dialing 988.
Here are a list of other resources available in the community:
- Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs
334-242-5077
va.alabama.gov - Birmingham VA Medical Center
205-212-3122
va.gov/birmingham-health-care - Birmingham Vet Center
205-212-3122
va.gov/birmingham-vet-center - Birmingham Career Center
205-582-5200
alabamaworks.com - Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services
334-293-7500
rehab.alabama.gov - Alabama Suicide Prevention and Resources Coalition
205-677-6116
asparc.org - Alabama Department of Mental Health
334-242-3454
mh.alabama.gov