Film to Raise Awareness of Soldier Suicide

The rate of soldier suicide is reportedly 10% higher than the civilian rate.  Every day, 22 veterans and 1.5 active duty soldiers commit suicide. While the Veteran's Administration has resources to help soldiers in such emotional crisis, the agency remains overwhelmed as more soldiers return from foreign wars. 

The organization, Stop Soldier Suicide, was formed by three veterans who enlisted after 9/11.  They are creating a nationwide network to help soldiers in need.  In addition to working closely with the Veterans Administration, Stop Soldier Suicide has created partnerships with the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation to support paralyzed vets as well as the Give an Hour organization, with its network of professional counselors. 

Monday, Nov. 11, at 6 p.m., Aperture Cinema in Winston-Salem will present a film, Happy New Year,  illustrating the need for attention to this issue. 

Laura Black, chief marketing officer for Stop Soldier Suicide,, spoke with WFDD's Audrey Fannin about the issue of soldier and veteran suicide and the movie screening. 

For additional information, visit Stop Soldier Suicide.