09/21/2026
September is Su***de Prevention Awareness Month. This one hits close to home for our veteran community.
Right now, on average, 17.5 veterans die by su***de every day. Despite being just 8.5% of the U.S. population, veterans account for 18% of all deaths by su***de. And it's not just one life lost.
Research shows approximately 135 people are impacted by each su***de death. One veteran su***de means 135 family members, battle buddies, coworkers, neighbors are left to carry that loss. Do the math - that's over 2 million people a year impacted by veteran su***de alone.
This is why BUDDY CHECK matters - for veterans of ALL ages.
We talk a lot about our younger combat veterans, and we should. But 65% of veterans who died by su***de were age 50 or older. Vietnam, Gulf War, peacetime, post-9/11 - this doesn't discriminate by era or age. If you wore the uniform, you are my brother or sister for life.
A buddy check doesn't have to be complicated:
1. Reach out. Call. Text. Show up for coffee. Don't wait for them to ask.
2. Ask straight up. "How are you REALLY doing?"
3. Listen. No fixing, no judging. Just be there.
4. Connect. Help them get to the next right resource if they need it.
5 minutes of your time could literally save someone's life and spare 135 people from that pain.
If you're reading this and you're struggling - you are not a burden. You are not alone. We need you here. Your family needs you. Your buddies need you.
