The Fatalities of 9/11 Include the Suicides of Veterans

As this week is National Suicide Prevention Week, and Sunday marks the 10th anniversary of 9/11, let us grieve those who have taken their own lives as a result of their service in Iraq and/or Afghanistan.

Every day 18 veterans commit suicide.

Let us commend the Veterans Administration for its invaluable help in preventing suicides of veterans and active duty service. According to VA, as of July 31, 2011, the VA's Crisis Line (800-273-8255) received 462,854 calls. Of those calls, 259,891 were from veterans, and 6,030 were from active duty service members. The VA rescued 16,855 veterans and service members.

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VCS Editorial: Suicide Remains Sad Legacy of 9/11

An average of 18 veterans from all wars complete suicide every day

As the war in Afghanistan enters its 10th year, and as the war in Iraq enters its 21st year, our troops and veterans suffer enormous casualties. One sad legacy is the current suicide epidemic. In the last two years more of our service members completed suicide than were killed by the enemy. An average of 18 veterans from all wars complete suicide every day.

However, as the wars drag on, the deadly suicide crisis worsens. Untreated depression and PTSD can become serious issues for service members, veterans, and families. Deployment and re-deployment to war, improper denials for care, lengthy delays to see doctors, and discrimination against those seeking mental healthcare further increase the risk for suicide.

This September 11th, let us all pause and remember our wounded, injured, ill, and disabled who pay a very heavy price defending our Constitution and nation. VCS believes our nation must do more to end the suicide epidemic and do more so our veterans receive prompt and high-quality VA medical care and benefits.

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