This month, three veterans have their taken lives at veterans facilities in five days, drawing attention to what one congressman has called a national crisis. Three similar events happened in the first three months of the year, whether as acts of despair or protest.
While three symbolically significant suicides in five days seems like a spike, the crisis is ongoing. According to a CBS News story, the Veterans Administration reports that about 20 veterans take their lives each day.
The issue of veterans and suicide is explored in 100 Questions and Answers About Veterans, which includes video interviews from Detroit Public TV. The guide looks at the stresses on veterans, Post Traumatic Stress, the stereotype of the suicidal veteran and what people can do to help.