NH Veterans and Suicide Prevention: Fostering Hope and Support
This September, let’s come together to promote hope, extend support to those who need it, and ensure our veterans know they are not alone. When discussing suicide, the conversation often centers around its tragic nature, complexity, and the gaps in our how we view it in our state. However, one crucial element often overlooked is the power of hope. By focusing on the fact that suicide can be prevented and that there are resources available for NH veterans facing challenges, we can make a real impact in saving lives.
This Suicide Prevention Month of September, it’s time to check on your friends and family—especially veterans. If you or someone you know is a veteran in crisis, remember that free and confidential support is available 24/7. Veterans can call the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1, send a text to 838255, or chat online. This simple step could be the difference between despair and hope.
Assisted Living Costs: Help for Veterans
For NH veterans facing challenges beyond mental health, such as the financial burden of assisted living, support is also available. The average monthly cost of assisted living in the U.S. is $4,051, making it a significant expense for veterans with smaller pensions. For more information on how veterans can access financial support for assisted living and other benefits, visit Paying for Senior Care.
In the United States, approximately 18 million senior veterans may be eligible for various assisted living and home care benefits. While assisted living is often more affordable, veterans with smaller pensions may require additional assistance in covering the associated fees. Some veterans may self-fund their care by selling their homes or utilizing bridge loans or reverse mortgages.
To support senior veterans and their families, Paying for Senior Care offers comprehensive resources that provide detailed information on the options available to veterans to cover the costs of assisted living. Their guides include a frequently asked questions section, specifically tailored to address assisted living benefits for veterans, and various ways to alleviate the financial burden faced by senior veterans.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides several benefits that can help. Veterans who were honorably discharged may be eligible for a VA pension, and for those with specific needs, the Veterans Aid and Attendance Benefit can provide additional assistance. Moreover, Medicaid waivers may also be available to help offset the cost of assisted living or other long-term care, making it more accessible for veterans who need it.
Concerning Suicide Trends Among Veterans
The latest National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report from the VA showed troubling statistics. Between 2020 and 2021, there was an increase in veteran suicides, particularly among younger veterans. The report revealed that the highest suicide rates were among veterans aged 18 to 34, followed by those aged 35 to 54.
Overall, the reported suicide rate among veterans in 2021 was 33.9 percent, a 1.3 percent increase from 2020. This reflects a total of 6,392 veteran suicides, with 6,042 of them being men. These figures highlight the urgency of addressing mental health issues within the veteran community and providing timely, effective support.