Amo Leads Introduction of Bipartisan Resolution to Establish “Vets Get Outside Day” to Combat Veteran PTSD, Depression
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressmen Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Garret Graves (R-LA-06), and Seth Moulton (D-MA-06) introduced a resolution to establish “Vets Get Outside Day” to support veterans struggling with mental health challenges. Nearly 460,000 veterans were diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries between 2020 and 2022, and there were 6,146 veteran suicide deaths in 2020. U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Angus King (I-ME), and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) also introduced the resolution in the U.S. Senate.
“In Rhode Island, we are blessed to have a proud community of veterans and a wide range of options to enjoy the great outdoors — including a National Historical Park in our First Congressional District,” said Congressman Amo. “I am proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to designate June 9th, 2024, as Veterans Get Outside Day to promote healing and health for those readjusting to civilian life after bravely serving our country in uniform. Spending time outdoors has been proven to help those struggling with their mental health, which is why I am glad we provide our veterans with free admission to our national parks and forests.”
“We owe it to the men and women who fought for our freedoms around the world to address the veteran suicide crisis,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Vets Get Outside Day ensures that our veterans know there is help available to them.”
“From beach walks and fishing trips on the coast to a hike in the forest, America’s extraordinary outdoor spaces can bring moments of calm during the most difficult times,” said Senator King. “I hope that ‘Vets Get Outside Day’ will encourage Maine’s veterans to find a relaxing outdoor space that helps them process the stresses and challenges they carry with them. It’s a simple way to promote two of Maine’s greatest treasures — the great outdoors and our brave veterans.”
“Studies have shown fresh air and nature can be the best treatment for veterans who may be suffering from post-traumatic stress and depression. At the peak of Teddy Roosevelt’s grief and loss, he came to the tranquility of North Dakota’s badlands. This resolution recognizes the positive impact outdoor recreational activities can have on our veterans,” said Senator Cramer.
“Veterans Get Outside Day is all about encouraging our Veterans to explore the great outdoors among their peers and community members – whether that’s hiking, biking, hunting, or casting lines for a big catch,” said Congressman Graves. “Studies consistently highlight the incredible benefits of nature on our well-being, from reducing stress levels to advancing our mental agility. I’m proud to champion this resolution for the second year in a row with Congressman Moulton and Senators Cassidy and King, and I’m excited to be adding Congressman Amo. Our Veterans deserve support every step of the way.”
“Veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and many face unique, lifelong health challenges as a result of their service. As a Marine veteran, I know firsthand how healing simply spending time outdoors can be. The moments where I can go on a long run or spend time on the water are sacred,” said Congressman Moulton. “I’m proud to partner with my House and Senate colleagues to designate Vets Get Outside Day. This is a great way to remind every veteran to do something healing for themselves; and it’s another important step toward destigmatizing the national conversation around mental health. We are all in this together, and together we can build a community that leads the way on changing how we talk about mental health.”
Veterans in crisis can dial 9-8-8 and then press 1 to be connected with the Veterans Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Read the full resolution here.
