VA’s unhelpful message

I was reading in the Spokane paper today that about 20 veterans commit suicide daily.

I read that even though Donald Trump promised that preventing suicide was his top clinical priority for veterans, of the $6.2 million appropriated for veteran suicide prevention, the agency, so far this year as of September, has spent $57,000, less than 1 percent of its budget.

If a vulnerable veteran was to call the Spokane V.A. Medical Center, they get to listen to a recording that starts with, “If you are having a physical or mental health emergency, hang up and please call 911.” Next, if you are having thoughts of suicide, press 7 now and you are given an 800 number to call. If I was a vulnerable veteran, seeking help because I could be in crisis (e.g., thoughts of harming myself or others), I would probably hang up, when faced with this multitasking option. … I need help and I need it now!

I haven’t unholstered my blamethrower, when it comes to Donald Trump’s lack of interest in helping meet the needs of an honorably discharged veteran, who is self-medicating his anxiety disorder, in an effort to calm his mind and thoughts, before doing something that he will regret for the rest of his life, to include suicide.

I have known a number of vets in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps, who ended their lives because they were feeling hopeless and isolated from a circle of caring and hopeful friends. I hope and pray that they change the message on the main phone at the V.A. in Spokane; it turns many veterans off in our area.

James Gordon Perkins

Colville, Wash.