Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Angus King (I-ME), and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) have proposed a resolution to establish “Vets Get Outside Day” in an effort to aid veterans grappling with mental health issues. The period between 2020 and 2022 saw nearly 460,000 veterans diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries, while the year 2020 alone recorded 6,146 veteran suicide deaths. U.S. Representatives Garret Graves (R-LA-06), Seth Moulton (D-MA-06), and Gabe Amo (D-RI-01) also introduced the resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Dr. Cassidy stated, “We owe it to the men and women who fought for our freedoms around the world to address the veteran suicide crisis,” adding that “Vets Get Outside Day ensures that our veterans know there is help available to them.”

Senator King expressed his hope that “Vets Get Outside Day” will encourage Maine’s veterans to find a relaxing outdoor space that helps them process their stresses and challenges.

Senator Cramer emphasized that studies have shown fresh air and nature can be highly beneficial for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress and depression.

Representative Graves reiterated the positive impact of nature on well-being, including reducing stress levels and advancing mental agility.

Representative Moulton highlighted the importance of destigmatizing conversations around mental health while emphasizing how healing spending time outdoors can be.

Representative Amo applauded this bipartisan effort to designate June 9th, 2024 as Veterans Get Outside Day as a means of promoting healing and health for those readjusting to civilian life after serving in uniform.

Veterans in crisis are encouraged to dial 9-8-8 followed by pressing 1 to connect with the Veterans Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

This marks the second year Senator Cassidy has led the introduction of “Vets Get Outside Day.” In 2022, the Senate unanimously passed Cassidy’s Solid Start Act to strengthen the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Solid Start program. The program is designed to connect veterans with VA programs and benefits, including mental health resources.