[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 159 (2013), Part 10]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 14805]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           HIGHLIGHTING SEPTEMBER AS SUICIDE PREVENTION MONTH

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                             HON. ANDY BARR

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, September 30, 2013

  Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to promote awareness of the fact 
that September is ``Suicide Prevention Month,'' and to specifically 
highlight the vulnerabilities of our nation's veteran community.
  Tragically, the Department of Veterans Affairs reports that, on 
average, 22 United States military members and veterans commit suicide 
every day. Not all battle wounds are visible from the outside.
  Please stand with me to help emphasize, not only to our hurting 
veterans but every American in need of help that people matter--
relationships matter--and their lives remain full of hope and meaning.
  When a loved one is in crisis, even the smallest act can make a 
lifesaving difference. I ask that we all take time to learn to 
recognize signs of isolation, withdrawal and suicidal behavior. And 
further, I ask that when we grow concerned for an individual, we become 
proactive and reach out to appropriately address the situation.
  To all those who are hurting--no matter what problems you are dealing 
with, you can find a reason to keep living. If you are a veteran in 
need of help, please call 1-800-273-8255 or for non-veterans please 
call 1-800-273-TALK.
  It's time to act, because ``It Matters.''

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