JOHN WALSH

(US SENATE)—Senator John Walsh today recognized the start of Suicide Prevention Week by highlighting his Suicide Prevention for America’s Veterans Act (SAV Act).

Walsh’s SAV Act improves suicide prevention in the VA by increasing the number of mental health professionals in the VA system, requiring annual reviews of suicide prevention programs, extending the eligibility period for combat-related medical treatment, and reviewing wrongful discharges from the armed services.   Each day, 22 veterans die by suicide in the United States.

“I am proud to participate in Suicide Prevention Week to raise awareness for the need for more resources to combat the suicide crisis facing our communities—especially our veterans,” Walsh said.  “It is our duty to stand up for those who served and ensure our veterans are getting the proper treatment for all wounds, seen and unseen.”

Montana consistently ranks among the highest suicide rates in the country with nearly twice the rate as the rest of the nation.

Suicide Prevention Week runs from September 7-13^th in conjunction with thousands of events across the country to help raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health awareness.