In San Antonio, the observance of Suicide Prevention Month has taken on a personal urgency as two local veterans stepped forward to share their stories and promote the resources available to service members and their families.
Veterans break the silence
Steven Price, an Army veteran and co‑founder of Voices of Our Veterans, described the cultural pressure many service members feel to hide emotional struggles. “Mental health is such a personal and critical feeling, so we want to hide it, right? We want to keep it to ourselves and say, look, I’m ok, when you’re really not ok,” he said.
Price has lost nine close friends to suicide, a loss that fuels his determination to end the stigma surrounding mental‑health care. When asked what he hopes a veteran can remember at their lowest point, Price emphasized that no one is left behind: “There are 99 people. They may not have a clue, but reach out to someone like myself. Reach out to the agencies that are there. Don’t be afraid to ask.”
Free local services
The American GI Forum National Veterans Outreach Program, led by President and CEO Sergio Dickerson, offers a suite of no‑cost services to help veterans navigate disability claims, secure housing, and find employment. “I can do all of these things for them, they don’t have to go out and pay for it or figure out what their next steps are — they need to come to an organization like mine,” Dickerson explained.
Access is straightforward: “Just walk in. You don’t have to make an appointment,” he added, underscoring the program’s commitment to removing barriers.
National support networks
Beyond local efforts, the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) continues its nationwide mission to connect veterans and their families with free programs and services. Lindsey Gray of WWP highlighted the importance of purpose and community for those transitioning out of the military, especially during the first year after service.
“For us, it means connecting warriors and their family members to programs and services at no cost,” Gray said. “But also to promote protection. That’s things like connection and purpose that can be really difficult after a service member transitions out away from the military, especially in that first year.”
Immediate help available
Veterans in crisis can reach the Veterans Crisis Line, staffed by fellow veterans, 24 hours a day. By calling or texting 988 and then pressing 1, individuals can speak with a trained responder who understands the unique challenges of military life.
As Suicide Prevention Month continues, these voices and resources aim to remind every veteran in San Antonio—and across the nation—that help is within reach and that no one has to face mental‑health struggles alone.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
