JACKSON, Miss. (WDAM) - Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has partnered with the Mississippi Department of Mental Health to declare Nov. 10-16 as Mississippi Veterans' Suicide Awareness Week.

The week is dedicated to recognizing and addressing mental health issues facing veterans.

The week‘s observance will also take place during Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11.

Suicide remains a leading cause of death among our nation’s veterans and service members, with U.S. veterans nearly 72% more likely to die by suicide than those who have not served.

In Mississippi, veteran suicide rates are 68% higher than the rates for those who have not served.

“We owe it to our veterans to provide them with the support they need after all they‘ve sacrificed for us,” said DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey. “Mental health support is essential, and we must ensure that resources are readily available and accessible for veterans in our state.”

DMH also encourages all Mississippians to take part in supporting veterans throughout the entire year, not just for the week.

“It’s crucial that veterans and their families know they are not alone, and that help is only a phone call or click away,” said Bailey.

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