Did you know that 23 veterans will commit suicide everyday? What are we doing wrong? We need to show those who have served our country how much they still mean to us! Chris Kyle gave his life serving veterans and it just goes to show how much they need our help. Most of our homeless are veterans, and are strung out on drugs. Here are a few different ways to help veterans keep their mind off of suicide.
Ideas to Help
1. Check in with them daily: Many people need to feel like they are needed in life and need that daily social interaction whether they think so or not. It’s easier said than done, but if it ends up saving their life, it will be worth it.
2. Invite them to church: Don’t take it personal if they decline, but just an invitation is enough to show you care and are invested in them. Be sincere about the invitation though, as veterans are smart, and can tell fake people from sincere people who truly are interested.
3. Ask them about how they are feeling: Really ask them and listen. Sometimes they will just need to vent. Get ready for some salty language from some of them though, but don’t hold it against them. Over time, it may soften, but if not, who cares, they are still alive for you to enjoy them and for them to enjoy life most importantly. Don’t try to fix them, we are all messed up.
4. Invite them to serve in a ministry or volunteer with you at a shelter: It will renew their sense of purpose and help give them something to look forward to.
5. Take them out to dinner: it will show them they have friends and people care about them. It may take a few times asking, but don’t give up.
6. Help them get a service dog: a service dog will give them some responsibility and will give them help in return. It will be their best friend in their most dire times of need and will be with them at all times. When their symptoms flare up, the dog will know how to react in a way to calm them down.
“It is our duty to serve those who have already served”- Chris Kyle 1974-2013
