Tragically, every day in America, 20 veterans take their own lives. Many of our veterans face post-traumatic stress disorder and other serious mental health issues upon their return home, and these veterans have sacrificed too much to ever feel alone when in a crisis. When these veterans reach out, we as a country owe it to them to answer their call.
Earlier this summer, a veteran from the Quad Cities was turned away from a Veterans Affairs (VA) facility after seeking psychiatric help. After being denied care, he tragically took his own life. I introduced the Never Again Act to ensure that no veteran is ever turned away again. My legislation would require the VA Medical Centers to provide psychiatric care for any veteran that asks for it. If there are not enough beds or health care providers at that location, it would require the VA to find care for the veteran at a non-VA facility. Simply put, under the Never Again Act, if a veteran asks for mental health care from the VA, they will get it.
This month is Suicide Prevention month. I am working in Congress to ensure that all Americans have the resources they need when in crisis. If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, I encourage you to please seek help immediately. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, and if you are a Veteran you can also reach out to the Veterans Crisis line at 1-800-273-8255.
Sincerely,
Dave Loebsack
Iowa's Second District
