September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
 
There are an average of 123 suicides each day in this country, an average of 22 are veterans. It’s the tenth leading cause of death in America — second leading for ages 25-34, and third leading for ages 15-24. In order to create awareness and strengthen the fight against suicide, the entire month of September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
 
Suicidal thoughts, much like mental health conditions, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender or background. In fact, suicide is often the result of an untreated mental health condition. Suicidal thoughts, although common, should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.
 
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month—a time to share resources and stories in an effort to shed light on this highly taboo and stigmatized topic. We use this month to reach out to those affected by suicide, raise awareness and connect individuals with suicidal ideation to treatment services. It is also important to ensure that individuals, friends and families have access to the resources they need to discuss suicide prevention. The VA is here to help.
 
During September, the Hines Community Outreach Team will be sharing information and resources to help prevent veteran suicide. 

Veterans who wish to receive care through the Veterans Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) from Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital must bring a copy of their DD Form 214 or their VA medical ID card with them.

Our Veterans MMU provides us with an opportunity to engage Veterans and to assist them with enrollment in VA Healthcare.

For additional information, please contact Ken Buck, Superintendent of the Grundy County Veterans Assistance Commission at 815-941-3152.