JACKSON, Miss. (WDAM) – Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has partnered with the Mississippi Department of Mental Health to declare November 10-16 as Mississippi Veterans Suicide Awareness Week.

The week is dedicated to recognizing and addressing mental health issues faced by veterans.

Observance of the week will also take place during Veteran’s Day on November 11.

Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death among our nation’s veterans and service members, with nearly 72 percent more likely to die by suicide than those who have not served.

In Mississippi, suicide rates for veterans are 68 percent higher than rates for those who have not served.

“We owe it to our veterans to give them the support they need after all they’ve sacrificed for us,” said DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey. “Mental health support is critical, and we need to make sure resources are readily available and accessible to our state’s veterans.”

DMH also highlights key resources and programs for veterans in crisis:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Veterans, service members and anyone in need of immediate mental health assistance can call or text 988 and press “1” to connect with counselors specially trained to help veterans.
• Mobile Crisis Response Teams: Available statewide, these teams provide timely mental health support, including for veterans and their families. They are sent to people in crisis and work directly with them to de-escalate the situation and connect them to ongoing support.
• MentalHealthMS.com: The website provides comprehensive information on mental health services across the state, including those tailored specifically for veterans.
• Mississippi Department of Mental Health Mobile App: Available for download, this app allows veterans and other users to quickly find mental health resources and contact crisis support.

DMH also encourages all Mississippians to take part in supporting veterans throughout the year, not just for the week.

“It is critical that veterans and their families know that they are not alone and that help is just a phone call or a click away,” Bailey said.

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