Dave Rocker: Mental Health Initiatives for Veterans

Post on 16-Apr-2017

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MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVES FOR VETERANS

By Dave Rocker

JULY 7, 2016

On July 7, the U.S. Department of Veteran

Affairs released an official account of veteran suicide

deaths.

ON AVERAGE, 20 VETERANS COMMIT SUICIDE EACH DAY.

MENTAL HEALTH

That figure indicates the urgency with which the VA needs to address veterans’ mental health concerns

Photo Source: cargocollective.com

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

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.

#1.

Active Heroes - The Pound Challenge

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.

The iron they pumped has raised donations and awareness to help put an end to veteran suicide.

#2.

22KILL - #22 PUSHUPS To Honor Those Who Serve

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.

22Kill’s mission emphasizes prevention through veteran education and empowerment.

Photo Source: 22Kill Facebook Page

Post a video of yourself doing pushups to social media with the hashtag #22pushups. Every pushup counts!

Photo Source: 22Kill Facebook Page

#3.Other Suicide/PTSD Awareness Efforts Check Out:

Photo Source: www.veteransnewsnow.com

3.1. THE HIKE TO END SOLDIER SUICIDE

Part of a collaborative effort to shed light on PTSD through guiding veterans on challenging expeditions.

3.2. USX VETERAN EVEREST EXPEDITION

Also part of a collaborative effort to shed light on PTSD through guiding veterans on challenging expeditions.

3.3. COMBAT STRESS

The UK's leading veterans’ mental health charity.

3.4. IRREVERENT WARRIORS

A non-profit organization that combats suicide and PTSD through humor and camaraderie.

IF YOU LIKED THIS PIECE, PLEASE VISIT: DAVEROCKER.ORG

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!