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For Immediate Release Contact: Betsy Hart
May 09, 2008 (202) 226-8555

HERSETH SANDLIN STATEMENT ON VETERAN SUICIDE STATISTICS

May 9, 2008-Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Herseth Sandlin issued the following statement in response to recent reports showing an increase in attempted suicide by veterans and efforts by the Veterans Administration to conceal the statistics:

“I am alarmed by the statistics showing that there are approximately 1,000 suicide attempts a month by war veterans treated by the VA. The high rate of suicide among men and women who have bravely served our country in uniform is a cause for great concern and deserves further analysis by the Congress. It also highlights the critical need for adequate mental health care for veterans. Earlier this week, I participated in the Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing on the topic of veteran suicide, and I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure adequate resources for the VA to provide enhanced suicide detection and prevention training for VA employees as well as offer expanded mental health services for veterans.

“Additionally, I’m concerned that the VA did not adequately or promptly inform Congress about this startling increase. Without timely access to relevant information Congress is not as equipped as it should be to address the needs of veterans, particularly as they return from conflicts that present new and unforeseen challenges. In the future, I’m hopeful the VA will be more forthcoming in reporting to Congress so that we can better work together to do what’s best for those who have served and sacrificed.”

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