An average of 17 veterans die every day by suicide — that's nearly double the rate of those who did not serve. The holidays can add pressure to those with mental health concerns.
Laura Russell Ricci, a social worker on the suicide prevention team for the St. Louis VA, told KMOX how they help support veterans during the holidays — and year round. She said that the main problems for veterans are economic and social struggles.
“Economically, veterans are struggling because of transition from active duty to civilian life, or having lost a job or not being able to maintain a job,” she said.
And as for social connectivity, losing touch with the people they served with can be a problem. Plus, she said, “family members, they may have different opinions about how things should be, maybe behaviors that veterans have exhibited because of PTSD or depression, maybe increased drinking, or maybe even drug use, can impact their relationship with family and friends, too.”
PTSD generally can account for suicidality and trauma, Ricci said. “And when we talk about PTSD, we're not just talking about combat, we're also talking about people who've been exposed to military sexual trauma, or the ending of relationships, divorces and that sort of thing.”
She said that sometimes veterans display more typical signs of suicidality, like being socially withdrawn, or giving away possessions. But there are other things to look out for, too.
“The other thing to be aware of is the veteran who seems like they have it together. And that seems odd to say,” she said. “But if they really seem like they've got it together, and that when bad things happen, that they're kind of taking it in stride, it's important for you to kind of still check in with them. Because a lot of times people can hold it together and not show family and friends that they’re struggling. And they really are struggling.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness or suicidality, you can dial 9-8-8 or go to veterancrisisline.net.
Hear more about how to look out for the veterans in your life:
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