The Department of Veteran Affairs (2013) recently reported that 22 veterans commit suicide each day. This figure results from a study in which data was collected from 21 states between 1999 and 2011. Gregg Zoroya (USA Today, 2014) states that the rate of veteran suicide could be up to one percent higher than the rate officially reported. This is an astonishing statistic when compared with the rate of civilian suicide. Approximately one of every five suicides are completed by a veteran; however, veterans make up only 10% of the population (News21, 2013). 

Transportation 4 Heroes is committed to saving lives through transportation efforts. Emergency response efforts can be timely, but can also pose a problem when a veteran is in crisis. Transportation 4 Heroes will respond immediately by providing transportation to those who have no means of transportation, have no family or friends to intervene, or have insufficient funds to pay for transportation.

Behavioral Changes and Warning Signs associated with Suicide:

• Appearing sad or depressed most of the time
• Loss of interest in activities such as work, school, or hobbies'
• Difficulty sleeping and/or eating
• Easily agitated or anxious
• Isolating self from friends and family
• Feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, or a loss of purpose in life
• Changes in mood
• Expressions of shame or guilt
• Reckless, irresponsible, risky or violent behavior
• Giving away keepsake possessions
• Demonstrating uncontrolled anger, fighting, or holes in the wall
• Drawing up wills, putting affairs in order

This is not an inclusive list, but provides some of the basic warning signs and behavioral changes. For a more complete list, visit Veterans Crisis Line.

Transportation 4 Heroes is committed to saving lives one veteran at a time, one dollar at a time. Please donate to the cause of saving lives.