Bill > SJR62

This Joint Resolution officially designates September 22nd of each year as "Veterans Suicide Awareness & Remembrance Day" in the State of New Jersey, a day intended to honor and remember veterans and active military personnel who have died by suicide, as well as to support their families. The resolution acknowledges the profound sacrifices made by service members, the unique stresses of military life including combat and prolonged separation from loved ones, and the resulting increase in mental health challenges like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It highlights the alarming statistic that over 65,000 veterans and active military members have died by suicide since 2010, a number exceeding combined American combat deaths from the Vietnam War and post-9/11 conflicts. The resolution also recognizes the existence of resources provided by entities like the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and the federal Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to help at-risk individuals, emphasizing that raising public awareness can encourage the use of these services and reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. The Governor is requested to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public observance of this day with appropriate activities and programs.