Pappas and Kuster Hold Discussion on Strengthening VA Mental Health Care Services

Hooksett, NH – Yesterday, Representatives Chris Pappas (NH-01) and Annie Kuster (NH-02) held a roundtable discussion with representatives from the Manchester VA, state of New Hampshire, health care providers, spouse survivors of suicide and local veterans to discuss ways to strengthen health care services related to suicide. The purpose of the event was to garner greater understanding and collaborate to realize opportunities to collectively prevent suicide among servicemembers and Veterans.

"Any death by suicide is one too many," said Congressman Pappas, Chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Subcommittee of Oversight & Investigations. "It is our duty to better understand why suicide occurs, what can be done to prevent it and recommit along with our nation as a whole to doing more. I will carry the stories I heard today to Washington and I promise to continue to advocate for Granite State veterans and servicemembers and demand that we take swift, bipartisan action to do what is needed."

A common thread throughout the discussion was the complexities surrounding suicide and the need for training and education. While there is no single cause. Many common risk factors for suicide are treatable. More information on recognizing the warning signs of a Veteran in crisis is available at www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention .

"The tragically high rate of veteran suicide is a stain on our collective conscience," said Congresswoman Kuster. "Our servicemembers courageously fought and sacrificed to protect our nation and many had traumatic experiences. It is our duty to ensure these men and women have access to the mental health care they need to recover and move forward with their lives. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to meet with Congressman Pappas and veteran advocates today and I look forward to our continued work together to support veterans and servicemembers as they transition into civilian life."

"Manchester VAMC valued the opportunity to be a part of today's roundtable which reminded us no single agency or entity can end Veteran suicide, but together we can make changes that will prevent suicide," said Alfred Montoya, Director, Manchester VAMC. "The first thing we can do is acknowledge we all play a role and each of us can help a Veteran or Service member in crisis feel less alone. Anyone can help a Veteran who is having thoughts of suicide to find critical and appropriate resources, and give them hope that recovery is possible. One way you can do that is by connecting them to care at: Veterans Crisis Line contact, 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, send a text message to 838255."

"I was happy to be a part of today's discussion about suicide prevention amongst the military community," said Eric Golnick, CEO of Veteran and First Responder Healthcare. "I believe Congresswoman Kuster and Congressman Pappas understand the severity of this issue we face and hope we can continue to break down the information silos to create actionable solutions."

At the conclusion of the roundtable, participants agreed there was a need for greater general awareness as it relates to safe messaging, available resources and training. Additionally, not only in New Hampshire, but nationally, that we must ensure access to and prioritize Mental Health. As Chair of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, Congressman Pappas is engaged in ongoing bipartisan efforts to address this crisis. Congresswoman Kuster also previously served on the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.