Event focuses on veterans’ mental health, suicide

Suicide is the thirteenth leading cause of death overall in the US, but the second leading cause of death among veterans under the age of 45. That’s why local agencies will host a community discussion focused on suicide prevention this weekend.

The event will take place from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Saturday, November 16 at Kernersville VFW Post 5352, 618 Edgewood St. It will address the impact of suicide on families and communities, and offer resources specifically for veterans. Mental health professionals will be available to answer questions and provide support.

It is organized by Partners Health Management, the Mental Health Association of Forsyth County and Forsyth County Behavioral Health Services.

A panel discussion will be moderated by Holly Provance Doggett, executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness North Carolina. Doggett is married to a veteran and volunteers with the Veteran Spouse Network.

“Veterans and their loved ones deserve both our respect and support as they adjust to life at home after serving in the armed forces,” Doggett said. “I want to reassure veterans and their families that we are here for them and that there are resources available if they are facing mental health challenges.”

According to the 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, there were 6,042 suicide deaths among male veterans and 350 among female veterans nationwide in 2021. In North Carolina alone, 203 veterans died by suicide that year. Partners Health Management, Forsyth County Government and the Forsyth County MHA report suicide rates were highest among younger veterans ages 18 to 34.

“This event focuses on veterans’ mental health and the urgent need for suicide prevention,” said Andy Hagler, executive director of MHA of Forsyth County. “Veterans often have difficulty adjusting to civilian life after serving in combat, which can lead to mental health issues and even suicide. We want our veterans to know that we are here for them and that help is available.”

In North Carolina, Forsyth County has one of the highest rates of hospital emergency room visits for self-inflicted injuries.

“We hope this event will bring veterans, their families and community members together to talk openly about mental health and suicide prevention,” said Beth Brooks, member engagement supervisor at Partners Health Management. “We want to create a supportive environment where people feel comfortable seeking the help they need.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, Partners’ Behavioral Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day year-round at 833-353-2093. More information can be found online at www.partnersbhm.org/crisis-help/.