Comprehensive Action Plan to Combat Veteran Suicide

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As a military spouse and advocate for veterans and their families, I am committed to addressing the crisis of veteran suicide with urgency, compassion, and practical solutions. Veterans have given so much to our nation, and it is our moral obligation to ensure they receive the care and support they need to thrive after their service.

Policy Commitment 

Strengthening Mental Health Support for Veterans

• Expand Access to Mental Health Services:
  • Increase funding for the VA to hire more mental health professionals and reduce appointment wait times.
  • Partner with community healthcare providers to offer veterans free or low-cost access to mental health services in underserved areas.
• Mandatory Mental Health Screenings:
  • Require regular mental health screenings during and after military service, with follow-up care provided for those at risk.
• Innovative Therapies and Research:
  • Fund research into alternative therapies, such as art therapy, service animals, and virtual reality treatments for PTSD and other mental health issues.
  • Expand the use of telehealth to provide flexible mental health support, particularly for veterans in rural areas.

Enhancing Community-Based Outreach Programs

• Veteran Peer Support Networks:
  • Develop peer support programs that connect veterans with shared experiences to provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Training for Community Members:
  • Launch an initiative to train educators, first responders, and community leaders on recognizing the signs of mental health crises in veterans and how to intervene.
• Family Support Services:
  • Increase resources for military families, such as counseling services and support groups, to help them better assist their loved ones in need.

Improving Crisis Intervention and Prevention

• 24/7 Crisis Intervention Support:
  • Expand the Veterans Crisis Line to ensure rapid response and increase outreach to veterans unaware of this resource.
• Mobile Crisis Units:
  • Deploy mobile crisis units specifically trained to respond to veterans experiencing mental health emergencies.
• Firearm Safety Programs:
  • Promote firearm safety initiatives, including providing gun locks and safe storage education, to prevent impulsive acts of self-harm.

Transition Support for Returning Veterans

• Employment and Housing Stability:
  • Ensure returning veterans have access to stable housing and employment opportunities through expanded VA programs and public-private partnerships.
• Integrated Transition Plans:
  • Create comprehensive transition programs that include mental health evaluations, counseling, and support for reintegrating into civilian life. 

Personal Commitment as a Military Spouse

As someone who has witnessed the unique challenges faced by service members and their families, I understand the importance of addressing this crisis from a place of lived experience. My platform is rooted in trust, transparency, integrity, resilience, and equality. I will work tirelessly to advocate for legislation and programs that provide our veterans with the dignity and support they deserve.