Military veterans and their supporters kicked off a campaign Wednesday to spark discourse about suicide among service-members, something they consider an epidemic across the country.
They stood along and camped out on the Old Pasadena Bridge, around the clock, for three straight days. The bridge, colloquially known as “suicide bridge,” has become a frequent location where people, including veterans, choose to end their lives.
According to military statistics, 22 veterans commit suicide every day across the United States. Service members who spoke with KTLA said the transition from the ravages of combat back into civilian life can be extremely difficult.
In addition to the Old Pasadena Bridge demonstration, a social media campaign called the 22Kill push-up challenge has gone viral with the goal of raising funds for veterans’ suicide prevention. Organizers are hoping people will do at least 22-million pushups and post their clips on Facebook.
Help is available at local Veterans Affairs offices and Vet Centers and through a 24-hour crisis hotline: 1-800-273-8255.
Veterans’ advocates are urging loved ones, family and friends to reach out for veterans who may be struggling and not getting the help they need.