SAN ANGELO, Texas — The holiday season is known for being ‘the most wonderful time of the year’, but for some military veterans, it can also be a painful reminder of times when life was different.
Veterans who now serve in the All Veterans Council of Tom Green County want other veterans to know they always have local support and can seek help at any time.
“This time of year is the hardest on all veterans as far as suicide goes. We want this to change this year. We didn’t serve alone so we’re not going to let them be alone,” combat veteran Jeffery A. Meurer said.
Meurer said eight veterans committed suicide so far in 2021. With depression heightening during this time of year, Meurer has the goal of ensuring all veterans seek help if needed in the area and zero suicides are reported during the holiday season.
Someone dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may have a more difficult time dealing with holiday festivities.
Luis Martinez, Air Force wounded combat veteran, says the military is a family and is always there to support one another no matter the place to time.
“I’ve been deployed with so many friends that didn’t seek help and took their own lives. I want veterans to know they have that support system. They signed that dotted line risking their lives, now we want to be that support in any ways possible,” Martinez said.
Martinez said anyone who reaches out for help will not be bounced around from service to service. They will be taken to a specific place and the assistance needed will be consistent.
If you’re in need of any assistance at any point, here are a few local resources available:
- Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255
- MHMR crisis hotline (24/7 service): 325-653-5933
- Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255
- TXlegion572.org
- Facebook: San Angelo Veterans