ROANOKE (WSLS 10)-- It's a topic that can be difficult or uncomfortable to talk about, but one that's in the national spotlight this month--suicide.
For the military, the issue is very real, with an estimated 22 veterans taking their own life each day. Burdened with the stigma associated with mental health issues and the military shame that surrounds Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), many veterans turn to suicide instead of reaching out for help.
John Koelsch, a local veteran, says he knows how they feel-- he almost took his own life nearly two decades ago. Now he's working to help those in the same position he was, suffering in silence.
He created a short film centered on veteran suicide, called The Quiet Man, that will soon be played in VA Hospital waiting rooms. The award-winning video features two veterans talking. One of them shows signs of depression and feelings of unworthiness before taking his own life.
Koelsch says he hopes this video will be able to break through to veterans considering suicide.
"One thing that is common to everyone that reaches that point, is that they are isolated," he says. "They're dealing with their issue. They're not reaching out. I had all of my family around and my best friend of 62 lived up the street, but it didn't make any difference. What we're trying to do with this video is reach out and break that mode-- saying, 'Hey, wait a minute. Give me your attention for a second.'"
Koelsch says breaking that cycle is key. It's important to help these veterans understand that someone is there for them, whether it's a fellow veteran, friends or family members-- then they can get the help they need.
For more information and suicide prevention resources:
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or call 1-800-273-TALK-- a toll free, 24-hour confidential crisis line available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress
Suicide.org or call 1-800-SUICIDE
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention-- One of the leading nonprofit organizations working to prevent suicide. You can find warning signs, personal stories from survivors and information for families
The Alliance of Hope for Suicide Survivors-- Resources for those who have lost a loved one to suicide
Live Through This-- Stories and portraits of suicide attempt survivors