San Antonio's Endeavors Military Family clinic is spearheading a unique program called #22 Actions to convince non veterans to get involved to help veterans who may be suffering from PTSD and other conditions, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
"One percent of our nation signs up to serve our country, Marine veteran Juanita Sepulveda said. "So if it is only that one percent, it is your responsibility to step in."
The campaign is named by the fact that a military veteran is 22% more likely to commit suicide, and among women veterans, the suicide rate is 2.5 times higher.
Jill Palmer, Clinic Director at the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at Endeavors says there is a simple way that neighbors, friends, and family members can help.
"Ask them," she said. "Are you thinking about suicide, are you thinking about hurting yourself, is there something I can do for you?"
She suggested people take note of changes in not just a veteran's behavior, but in the behavior of all friends and neighbors, to be aware of potential signs of suicide.
20 American veterans die by suicide each day, a terrifying statistic.
Every 12.3 minutes in this country, somebody dies by suicide.
Veterans are also more likely to commit suicide by firearm than others.
The program, which will involve speaking to community groups and providing information on how to help veterans in crisis, will run during September, which is Suicide Prevention Month.
PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES