In an effort to support the mental well-being of veterans in the Rio Grande Valley, South Texas Health System Behavioral (STHS Behavioral) is hosting a special event titled “A Salute to Valley Veterans”. The event will be held on November 9, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at 2102 W. Trenton Rd, Edinburg, and aims to honor veterans while raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced by many members of the military community.
Honoring Veterans and Raising Awareness
The A Salute to Valley Veterans concert and community fair is designed to recognize and celebrate the service of Rio Grande Valley veterans. It will feature free food, live music, games, and a community fair focused on providing information about veteran services and resources available in the region.
In addition to the festivities, the event will provide a platform to discuss the mental health challenges that many veterans face, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression. According to Tom Castaneda, Assistant Director of Marketing & Public Relations at STHS, veterans are 1.5 times more likely to commit suicide than the general population, making mental health awareness and community support critical.
“We want to make sure our community comes together to support our veterans,” Castaneda said. “Unfortunately, research shows that our veterans go through several mental health issues such as PTSD and depression, and events like these are crucial to break the stigma surrounding mental health within the veteran community.”
STHS Veteran of the Year Award
The event will also highlight the contributions of veterans within the South Texas Health System. STHS will be presenting its STHS Veteran of the Year award, which is given annually to a member of the STHS staff who has proudly served in the military. This honor is a testament to the ongoing commitment of veterans in serving both their country and their community.
Mental Health Resources for Veterans
The fair will also feature a variety of veteran services and resources aimed at providing much-needed support to those who have served in the military. The goal is to ensure that veterans in the Rio Grande Valley are aware of the mental health services, counseling options, and other assistance available to them, while also fostering a sense of community and support among veterans and the general public.
The event comes at a crucial time, as the national conversation about veterans’ mental health continues to grow. Efforts to address mental health concerns and reduce the stigma associated with seeking help are critical in ensuring that veterans receive the care they need.
A Call for Community Support
The event not only celebrates veterans but also aims to bring attention to the challenges they face, particularly when it comes to mental health. STHS Behavioral is leading the way in offering support to local veterans, encouraging the broader community to step up and ensure that those who have served are never forgotten and always supported.
This free event offers a chance for the public to show their appreciation for the service and sacrifice of veterans, while also educating attendees on the resources available for mental health and wellness.
By coming together for an evening of entertainment, education, and connection, A Salute to Valley Veterans promises to be a meaningful occasion that provides both a celebration of service and a call to action for mental health awareness and support for veterans.
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