Veterans Assisting Veterans: A Lifeline for Mental Health Support
We do not spend enough money, research or time on mental health in our country, and here we are in the state.Our guys are coming back from war...we need a little bit more for these guys.
Have you ever wondered about the mental health struggles our veterans face daily? This episode of Friends In Recovery dives into the crucial topic of veteran mental health with hosts Mike Miles and Ed Chionchio Sr, joined by John MacDonald, a candidate for State Senate in Massachusetts. They explore the mission of Veterans Assisting Veterans (VAV), an organization dedicated to providing much-needed support to those who have served our country.
The discussion reveals a startling statistic: 22 veterans commit suicide each day in the United States, with a significant number being Vietnam veterans. This conversation sheds light on the urgent need for better mental health resources and support systems for our veterans. Ironstone Farms in Andover is highlighted as one of the places offering valuable programs, but the consensus is clear—more needs to be done.
John MacDonald passionately advocates for a PTSD task force, emphasizing that it would cost the state nothing but could make a world of difference for veterans. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the challenges veterans face and how we can better support them.