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MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES FOR VETERANS
By Dave Rocker
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JULY 7, 2016
On July 7, the U.S. Department of Veteran
Affairs released an official account of veteran suicide
deaths.
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ON AVERAGE, 20 VETERANS COMMIT SUICIDE EACH DAY.
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MENTAL HEALTH
That figure indicates the urgency with which the VA needs to address veterans’ mental health concerns
Photo Source: cargocollective.com
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ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF
MENTAL HEALTH,
Approximately 1 in 5 U.S. adults will experience mental illness in a given year, and the statistics among veterans are
even more sobering.
Photo Source: nation.time.com
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IN THE SPIRIT OF BETTER SERVING THE MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS OF OUR
ACTIVE DUTY AND RETURNING SERVICE
MEMBERS, HERE ARE SEVERAL MENTAL HEALTH CAMPAIGNS
THAT ARE CURRENTLY RAISING AWARENESS OF THIS
IMPORTANT ISSUE.
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On July 27, 2016, Active Heroes, an organization that helps active duty military members, veterans, and their families develop coping skills to prevent suicide, partnered with gym and fitness centers throughout the country to lift more than 20 million pounds.
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The iron they pumped has raised donations and awareness to help put an end to veteran suicide.
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In a similar format to the widely successful ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, 22Kill.com is leveraging social media in their campaign to spread awareness about veteran suicide prevention.
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22Kill’s mission emphasizes prevention through veteran education and empowerment.
Photo Source: 22Kill Facebook Page
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Post a video of yourself doing pushups to social media with the hashtag #22pushups. Every pushup counts!
Photo Source: 22Kill Facebook Page
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#3.Other Suicide/PTSD Awareness Efforts Check Out:
Photo Source: www.veteransnewsnow.com
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3.1. THE HIKE TO END SOLDIER SUICIDE
Part of a collaborative effort to shed light on PTSD through guiding veterans on challenging expeditions.
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3.2. USX VETERAN EVEREST EXPEDITION
Also part of a collaborative effort to shed light on PTSD through guiding veterans on challenging expeditions.
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3.4. IRREVERENT WARRIORS
A non-profit organization that combats suicide and PTSD through humor and camaraderie.
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As a humanitarian, Dave Rocker is most passionate about helping disabled veterans reenter the workforce in a meaningful capacity. In his current role, Dave brings 30 years of executive experience in corporate finance and workflow optimization. Follow Dave on Twitter!