Veteran Suicide Awareness ruck hikes set
September is recognized as Suicide Prevention Month, with a significant focus on raising awareness about veteran suicide.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses this time to spotlight suicide prevention efforts and encourages communities to support veterans and their families.
The emphasis on veteran suicide awareness during September stems from concerning statistics. Numbers recorded tells us that approximately 22 veterans commit suicide each day.
Veterans face a higher risk of suicide compared to the general population due to factors such as PTSD, financial strain, substance abuse, and difficulty transitioning to civilian life.
Organizations highlight these challenges to encourage conversations and connect veterans with mental health support. Throughout September, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will host Veteran Suicide Awareness Ruck Hikes at Texas State Parks and State Natural Areas, and all military, veterans, family and friends are invited to participate.
Hikes at various locations are scheduled for each Saturday of the month beginning on Sept. 6. Each park will offer a variety of trails and activities. Information on the hikes and the specific host sites are available on the State Parks Events Calendar website or folks can reach out through email to vetcontact@tpwd.texas. gov.
Locally, Atlanta State Park and Daingerfield State Park have dates set for the hikes. Atlanta State Park has its hike at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13 and Daingerfield State Park has its hike scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27.
TPWD offers Texas Parklands Passports which provide free entry to all Texas state parks for active-duty military members, veterans, disabled veterans, Gold Star Families and Senior Full. Information about the passports is online at the Texas Parklands Passports website.
Passes can be obtained with supporting documents at any State Park headquarters.
State Park staff advise visitors who plan to acquire a pass at the event to arrive early.