Thompson Recognizes Military Mental Health Awareness Day

May 16, 2012

Remarks as prepared: Congressman Glenn Thompson May 15, 2012 Today I rise to recognize Military Mental Health Awareness Day, which is tomorrow, May 16, 2012. Our servicemembers have made tremendous sacrifices for our country, and many face serious conditions including the potential of anxiety, depression, anger, and a growing number of those experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Injury. For one reason or another, all too many of these cases tragically results in suicide. According to the Army, during 2011, there were a total of 164 confirmed Active-duty suicides. For 2012, there have been 61 potential active-duty suicides: 35 confirmed, with 26 still under investigation. Mr. Speaker, these statistics are daunting. One service member taking his or her own life is too many. In Congress, we have worked to increase access and availability, and also to remove the stigma associated with these conditions, in hopes that more soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines will be more easily diagnosed and seek the available resources and treatment. I want to thank everyone involved in Military Mental Health Awareness Day as we continue the important work of delivering care to these brave men and women that have served this country with honor and distinction.