Today, Explained The silent war
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Sep 3, 2024 
Austin Valley, a service member who faced a tragic mental health crisis, sheds light on the alarming rate of suicides in the military. A veteran psychologist shares insights on the systemic failures in mental health care and the urgent need for reforms. They discuss the stark contrast between past support systems and today's challenges, emphasizing neglected care and the struggle for veterans. Their conversation reveals an urgent call for change, focusing on enhancing access to mental health resources and combating the culture of silence surrounding these issues.
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Austin Vallée's Story
- Austin Vallée, an Army specialist, tragically died by suicide after a previous attempt while deployed in Poland.
- Despite the Army's awareness of his struggles, he was granted leave, during which he acquired a gun and ended his life.
Childhood Dream
- Austin dreamt of being a soldier since grade school, drawing pictures of army planes and soldiers.
- His father, also a veteran, shared stories of his own service, which further fueled Austin's passion.
Shifting Army Culture
- Austin's parents observed a change in the Army's culture, where soldiers felt overworked and overlooked.
- Unlike their own experiences of camaraderie and care, Austin's unit seemed to prioritize self-preservation over soldier well-being.