Rate Of Suicide In Military Sounds An Alarm

ROCKY HILL — The darkness of winter in and of itself does have an effect on people’s outlook. Short days and long nights can be cause for negative feelings and isolation.

Coping in a healthy way with some of our emotional needs is indeed a challenge.

Commissioner Linda Schwartz and the staff at the state’s Department of Veterans’ Affairs are reaching out with a reminder that the holiday season can be both an enjoyable and stressful time, and reminding folks that there are several services that are set aside to support recently returning military personnel, veterans, and their families who might be experiencing symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress, and problems coping during this time of year.

Often friends, coworkers, and family members are the first to notice when a veteran or military member is experiencing difficulties. Anyone with any of these concerns about a veteran should know that there are several avenues available to help veterans or their families.

Several State agencies in Connecticut and the federal VA have services to address the very special emotional and mental health needs of veterans. Many times people feel that these issues are none of their business, however the DVA is asking for everyone to be a “Battle Buddy” by taking steps to approach any veteran in need.

“Coaching Into Care” is a new program supported by the federal VA that offers professional counseling for friends and relatives on how to speak to veterans if they are concerned about their welfare. Another program exclusively for Connecticut veterans is the Military Support Program, a 24/7 hotline answered by individuals who are available to connect callers with mental health services and programs sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

The Connecticut Department of Veterans’ Affairs has a toll free number which is available to assist in guidance and support services. Very recently, 211, Connecticut’s free information and referral service, has collected a comprehensive listing of services and programs specifically directed to assist military members, veterans and their families.

Commissioner Schwartz has been receiving numerous calls for help and people who wish they had known about these special services. So the DVA is asking people to have the courage to take the steps to “Make the Call” and reach out to veterans who can use this help.

Call Coaching Into Care at 888-823-7458 or e-mail CoachingIntoCare@va.gov. Contact the Military Support Program at 866-251-2913; the Department of Veterans’ Affairs ay 866-928-8387 or call Infoline at 211 and ask for military/veteran listings.