Returning from War

My war was Vietnam and the letters PTSD had no meaning to me until several years after I returned home. Our combat veterans, men and women serving in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) are now coming home from war. While today's veterans are being told about PTSD, many are still in the denial stage. But there are others returning home that have an immediate need for suicide prevention counseling. The numbers of suicides of returning veterans is climbing, do you know what to do to assist in these situations? The VA has an excellent website with information on what to do: http://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/ I recommend you all become familiar and ready to assist when and if the call comes to you. Another good resource is the VA Nurse On Call 1-888-838-6466 (write it down and put it in your cell phone or wallet for reference).

Special Feature for US Military Veterans ~ The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline* has a new feature for veterans. Call for yourself, or someone you care about: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press 1. Your call is free and confidential.

In an emergency, take the vet to the closest Emergency Room for professional assistance.