New Documentary SHEEPDOG Urges Support for Veteran Suicide Prevention Amid Stagnant Rates
The latest report from the Department of Veterans Affairs has revealed troubling statistics regarding veteran suicide rates. Shockingly, two-thirds of those who have taken their own lives were not receiving care through VA services. In response, the makers of the award-winning film SHEEPDOG are spearheading a campaign to encourage veterans to reach out for the support they deserve. Steven Grayhm, the film's writer, director, and star, emphasized, "Asking for help is the first step to Post Traumatic Growth." He highlighted the necessity of collective action to address this crisis, urging the public to engage beyond mere expressions of gratitude towards veterans.
The staggering report indicated that a mere 39% of veterans who committed suicide were under VA care, prompting the VA to target outreach toward over nine million veterans who may not know about their eligibility for essential services. Jack L. Tilley, the retired 12th Sergeant Major of the Army, co-founder of the American Freedom Foundation, noted, "There is no single treatment for Post Traumatic Stress or preventing veteran suicide. Initiatives like SHEEPDOG are crucial in shining a light on this issue. Our extensive coalition, with over 250 members, is dedicated to reducing these tragic incidents by 2032. It’s a community effort to ensure every veteran receives support and care."
Doctor Anthony Estreet, the CEO of the National Association of Social Workers, echoed this sentiment, stating, "We honor veterans and their families, and we want them to know they are valued members of our community, deserving of respect and support." He emphasized the importance of connection, stating that courage is required to seek help. Dr. Estreet further mentioned that the film showcases the resilience of veterans, underscoring the healing potential in shared experiences.
SHEEPDOG has received a positive reception, boasting a 98% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and is being utilized by various organizations—including veterans' courts and social workers—as an educational resource. The film's message aligns with the objectives of a national coalition of Veteran Service Organizations to combat the veteran suicide crisis, advocating for greater awareness and accessibility to mental health resources for veterans.
For those in crisis—or having loved ones who are veterans—the message is clear: help is available. Veterans can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1 or by texting 838255. "This ongoing crisis requires vigilance and collective engagement," Grayhm noted. The call to action is not just for veterans, but for communities to nurture an environment where veterans feel supported and empowered to seek assistance. Recovering from trauma and preventing suicide are complex processes that necessitate a collective effort, understanding, and availability of resources tailored to their unique experiences. SHEEPDOG serves as a crucial reminder of our shared responsibility to support those who have served our country.
The staggering report indicated that a mere 39% of veterans who committed suicide were under VA care, prompting the VA to target outreach toward over nine million veterans who may not know about their eligibility for essential services. Jack L. Tilley, the retired 12th Sergeant Major of the Army, co-founder of the American Freedom Foundation, noted, "There is no single treatment for Post Traumatic Stress or preventing veteran suicide. Initiatives like SHEEPDOG are crucial in shining a light on this issue. Our extensive coalition, with over 250 members, is dedicated to reducing these tragic incidents by 2032. It’s a community effort to ensure every veteran receives support and care."
Doctor Anthony Estreet, the CEO of the National Association of Social Workers, echoed this sentiment, stating, "We honor veterans and their families, and we want them to know they are valued members of our community, deserving of respect and support." He emphasized the importance of connection, stating that courage is required to seek help. Dr. Estreet further mentioned that the film showcases the resilience of veterans, underscoring the healing potential in shared experiences.
SHEEPDOG has received a positive reception, boasting a 98% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and is being utilized by various organizations—including veterans' courts and social workers—as an educational resource. The film's message aligns with the objectives of a national coalition of Veteran Service Organizations to combat the veteran suicide crisis, advocating for greater awareness and accessibility to mental health resources for veterans.
For those in crisis—or having loved ones who are veterans—the message is clear: help is available. Veterans can reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1 or by texting 838255. "This ongoing crisis requires vigilance and collective engagement," Grayhm noted. The call to action is not just for veterans, but for communities to nurture an environment where veterans feel supported and empowered to seek assistance. Recovering from trauma and preventing suicide are complex processes that necessitate a collective effort, understanding, and availability of resources tailored to their unique experiences. SHEEPDOG serves as a crucial reminder of our shared responsibility to support those who have served our country.
Topics People & Culture）
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