Suicide Prevention Ad being promoted by the Veterans Administration.
On September 12, 2013 Representative Glenn Thompson of Pennsylvania was granted permission to address the United States House of Representatives for one minute regarding National Suicide Prevention Week.
“Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Suicide Prevention Week.”
” Suicide is a serious public health problem that takes an alarming toll on so many individuals, including our military personnel and veterans. A growing number of returning serv ice mem bers and veterans suffer from posttraumatic stress, acute brain injuries, severe anxiety, depression, and a variety of other mental illnesses from battle. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs released a study in February 2013 which estimates that approximately 24 veterans commit suicide every day”, he said.
“Our highest priority must be the mental health and well-being of our friends, our colleagues, and loved ones, and also the brave men and women who serve our Nation. Should one fear that someone they know is in crisis or depressed, giving that person an opportunity to open up and share their troubles with you can go a long way. National Suicide Prevention Week is a time for all of us to learn more about suicide, its warning signs, and what can be done to help those in need”, said Rep. Thompson (source: Congressional Record, September 12, 2013 ).
RepresentativeThompson currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Conservation, Energy, & Forestry. He also serves on the House Natural Resources Committee and the House Education & the Workforce Committee.