I want to address two critical issues facing our veteran community: suicide prevention and protection against scams targeting VA benefits.
Veteran Suicide Prevention: A Top Priority
Suicide among veterans is a national crisis we cannot ignore. In Minnesota alone, we’ve lost over 100 veteran lives to suicide each year for the past five years. This trend is particularly alarming among our younger veterans.
If you or a veteran you know is struggling, please remember: you are not alone. Help is always available through the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 (press 1). You can also text 838255 or chat online for confidential support 24/7.
Here in Minnesota, we have been taking action. We have been working to identify root causes of veteran suicide. Our goal is simple but ambitious: zero veteran deaths by suicide in our state. I am optimistic we will get there.
The S.A.V.E. approach to suicide prevention provides key strategies for supporting those at risk of suicide and include:
– Signs: Learn to recognize signs of suicidal thinking.
– Ask: Don’t be afraid to ask, “Are you thinking of killing yourself?”
– Validate: Listen and acknowledge the veteran’s experience.
– Encourage: Support the veteran in getting help.
Remember, suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. If you notice a veteran withdrawing from friends and family, talking about death, or showing signs of hopelessness, reach out. Your support could save a life.
For additional information regarding efforts in Minnesota to eliminate suicide among our veterans, please visit: https://mn.gov/mdva/resources/veteransuicideprevention/.
Protecting Veterans from Benefit Scams
Unfortunately, it is common for some sleazy individuals to try to take advantage of veterans seeking help with VA benefits claims. These “claim predators” often use dishonest tactics to profit from veterans’ benefits.
Here’s how to spot and avoid them:
- Never pay fees for initial claims: Legitimate organizations won’t charge you to file an initial claim for VA benefits.
- Beware of unrealistic promises: No one can guarantee a specific disability rating or speed up the VA’s process. Only the VA determines disability ratings.
- Avoid binding contracts: Never sign an agreement to pay someone a percentage of your benefit payments.
- Work with accredited representatives: The VA provides a list of accredited individuals and organizations who can help you file claims for free.
If you need assistance with VA benefits, reach out to your County Veterans Service Officer or a recognized Veterans Service Organization. These trusted resources provide free, expert help without putting your benefits at risk.
Our veterans deserve the utmost respect and protection. By raising awareness about suicide prevention and benefit scams, we can better support those who’ve served our country.
If you need help or have concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact my office. Together, we can ensure our veterans receive the care, support, and benefits they’ve earned.