War and all the horrors that come with it understandably stir passionate debate in America. Yet no matter your feelings about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, you and I both undoubtedly appreciate the bravery and sacrifice of our troops and their families. And there can be no debate at all that we must act now to confront the grave problem of suicide among our active duty personnel and our veterans.

Recent reports suggest that as many as 18 veterans a day commit suicide, with some studies indicating that the risk of suicide among male veterans is double that of the general population. Of the veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan who sought care from Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities, the most common combination of diagnoses found was post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. These numbers are staggering; especially considering one in every six Nevadans is a veteran.

We make a promise to every man and woman who serves our great country that we will always take care of them and ensure they enjoy all the benefits they have earned.  In 2007, I cosponsored and led Congress in the passage of the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act.  This legislation directed the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to develop and carry out a comprehensive program to reduce suicide among veterans.  The program includes mandatory training for VA counselors in the risk factors of and proper responses to veterans who are at high risk for suicide, as well as requiring mental health screenings for all veterans who seek medical care from the VA.

Just as we take care of our veterans, we must also look out for those currently serving.  The Department of Defense (DoD) recently reported an increase in suicide among active duty troops, and their Task Force on Mental Health estimates that 38 percent of active duty soldiers and 50 percent of National Guard report mental health issues after serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.  We can’t always control the damage, but we can take charge of our response.

Earlier this year, Senators Tom Harkin (D-IA) and Chuck Hagel (R-NE) introduced S.2585, the Armed Forces Suicide Prevention Act.  This bipartisan bill would direct the Secretary of Defense to enhance DoD programs by providing suicide prevention training for all members of the Armed Forces, DoD civilian health care community, and family support professionals.  It would also set up a suicide prevention outreach program for military family communities.

This bill would direct the Secretary of Defense to provide assistance to soldiers returning from deployment and their families.  This would include help identifying signs of risk and a national suicide prevention hotline.  It would give the Secretary power to use money and resources to recruit and retain vital professional help in dealing with mental health and substances abuse issues.

Supporting the troops means more than just providing armor and weapons.  When these men and women leave the field of battle, they deserve support and care worthy of their sacrifice.  We will make good on the promise of tomorrow they give us by protecting them now and forever.