Vets’ lifeline
War is hell, and anyone who wants proof need only look at statistics coming from a new suicide hot line provided for military veterans, 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
The hot line has received more than 22,000 calls for help since being launched in July 2007 and is said to have averted 1,221 suicides. The government launched the line in response to criticism that Veterans Affairs was not doing enough to help wounded soldiers returning from Iraq and Afghanis-tan. The hot line’s success is a strong reminder of the struggles returning vets face.