Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Eugene

(62,627 posts)
Tue Jan 9, 2018, 04:38 PM Jan 2018

Trump orders mental health aid for military veterans to prevent suicide

Source: Reuters

#HEALTH NEWS JANUARY 9, 2018 / 11:10 AM / UPDATED 2 HOURS AGO

Trump orders mental health aid for military veterans to prevent suicide

Reuters Staff
2 MIN READ

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Donald Trump on Tuesday signed an executive order directing government departments to try to prevent suicide among military veterans by treating mental health problems before they become more serious.

Trump’s order directs the departments of Defense, Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs to ensure all uniformed service members have access to mental health treatment and suicide prevention resources in the first year following military service.

“They get out of the military and they have nobody to talk to,” Trump said as he signed the order. “It’s a very sad situation.”

Veterans Affairs Secretary David Shulkin said the White House wants to address an alarming trend, that of 20 veterans a day taking their own life.

“That 12-month period after you leave service is the highest risk for suicide,” Shulkin told reporters. Currently, only 40 percent of military members have mental health coverage, he said.

-snip-


Read more: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-veterans/trump-orders-mental-health-aid-for-military-veterans-to-prevent-suicide-idUSKBN1EY1WW
Latest Discussions»Issue Forums»National Security & Defense»Trump orders mental healt...