On May 14 2015 Rep. Brad Ashford from Nebraska asked for and was granted permission to address the United States House of Representatives for one minute regarding veterans and mental health related issues. Rep Ashford is a member of the following Committee and Subcommittees in Congress:
House Armed Services Committee
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my unqualified support for those struggling with mental health issues.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and an opportune time to reach out to those battling with this issue, including this country’s veterans and their families.
Many of our veterans endured trauma during their time of service and, as a result, are now forced to face the negative perceptions and stigma associated with mental health care. I want to lend my voice to a national program designed to reducing those negative views.
The Department of Veterans Affairs is encouraging veterans, along with their families and friends, to visit the Web site http://maketheconnection.net/
Make the Connection allows veterans to tell their personal stories of mental health treatment and recovery.
Through the Web site, veterans and their loved ones hear from hundreds of other veterans who may be experiencing similar challenges and learn strategies for support and recovery. This is truly an excellent source of strength for veterans in need of hope.”
Source: Congressional Record
See related video: Rep. Ashford meets with military advocates, veterans Monday https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_X0IE_CWo20