As we approach Veterans Day this Monday, we are reminded of the profound sacrifices made by millions of men and women who have served our nation in both war and peace. This day serves as both a time for reflection and gratitude and as an opportunity to address the pressing mental health needs of our veterans.
One impactful way to honor their service is by promoting the Veterans Crisis Line, a vital resource that can save lives. During this year’s legislative session, I had the privilege of securing funding allowing the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs and the Alabama Challenge to implement a statewide billboard campaign aimed at raising awareness about this essential service, which can be accessed by dialing 988 and pressing 1.
The Alabama Challenge partners include Gov. Kay Ivey’s Office, the Alabama Legislature, the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs, the Alabama Department of Mental Health, the Alabama Department of Public Health, and numerous other organizations. To secure funding for this initiative, I collaborated with the legislative budget chairs and the chairs of our Military and Veterans' Affairs Committees, and their unwavering support for our veterans and military families is much appreciated.
This campaign is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that veterans, active service members, and their families know they are not alone in their struggles. The billboard campaign stretches along I-65 from the northern to the southern regions of Alabama, prominently displaying the crucial message: Dial 988 Press 1. Just as we instinctively call 911 in emergencies, we must encourage our veterans to reach out for help when facing a mental health crisis. The trained responders on the other end of the line are equipped to understand the unique challenges faced by our service members and their families.
Despite the availability of the Veterans Crisis Line in Alabama for the past two years, many veterans remain unaware of this essential service. Our campaign aims to change that by reaching every corner of our state, ensuring that veterans and their families know they have access to immediate support. This initiative, which began in September to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Month, will continue for a year and be bolstered by outreach through radio, television and social media, as well as partnerships with veteran service organizations, colleges and universities.
But the most powerful advocates for this message are the friends and family of our veterans. If you know a veteran, I urge you to take a moment to remind them that help is just a call away. You can share this information through veterans’ events, social media platforms, and other public venues. The simple act of sharing the number 988 Press 1 could make a significant difference and potentially save a life during a moment of crisis.
On this Veterans Day, let us honor our heroes while also taking actionable steps to support them. As we gather in ceremonies and prayers, join me in sharing the message of the Veterans Crisis Line with our communities. By doing so, we reaffirm our commitment to those who have bravely defended our freedoms and ensure they know they are valued and cared for.
Together, we can end the stigma surrounding mental health and create an environment in which veterans feel empowered to seek help. We should honor our veterans not just with words, but with meaningful actions that demonstrate our gratitude and support. This Veterans Day, let us stand united in our mission to ensure that every veteran knows they are not alone, and that help is always available at 988 Press 1.
State Rep. Kenneth Paschal, who retired from the U.S. Army after 21 years of service, represents District 73 in the Alabama House of Representatives and serves as vice chair of the House Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.
The views and opinions expressed here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of 1819 News. To comment, please send an email with your name and contact information to Commentary@1819News.com.
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