Congressman Amo Leads Introduction of Bipartisan, Bicameral Resolution to Help Veteran Mental Health by Establishing “Vets Get Outside Day
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Gabe Amo (D-RI) and Congressman Seth Moulton (D-MA) 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) and Angus King (I-ME) introduced a companion resolution in the Senate.
“Veterans were willing to lay it all on the line for our country, but service often comes with sacrifice,” said Congressman Amo. “Many veterans struggle with their mental health. Getting outside in a meaningful way can help ease the transition back to civilian life, which is why I am proud to work alongside colleagues in both the Senate and the House to introduce a bipartisan resolution designating June 14th, 2025, as Veterans Get Outside Day, and encouraging veterans to experience all the natural beauty Rhode Island has to offer.”
“Resuming civilian life can be isolating. When veterans stay active and connected with their community, their mental health and quality of life improve. That is what today is all about,” said Senator Cassidy.
“From beach walks on the rocky coast to a challenging hike in the woods, Maine’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 veterans to find a relaxing outdoor space that helps them process their daily stressors. It’s a simple way to promote two of Maine’s greatest treasures — the great outdoors and our brave veterans.”
“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.
