CALDWELL, Idaho — The Boise VA is continuing to investigate and evaluate suicide prevention programming.
At today's VA Mental Health Summit in Caldwell, much of the discussion revolved around taking a holistic approach to recovery.
#Happeningnow: Boise VA hosts 2019 Mental Health Summit, bringing together key stakeholders in the community with the goal of enhancing access to services and addressing the mental healthcare needs of Veterans and their family. More on this on KIVI at 5. pic.twitter.com/wXb5p1guXQ
— KIVI Madeline White (@madelinewhiteTV) May 15, 2019
In 1998, Allicia Arredondo injured her shoulder while she was in the military. She says several surgeries later, she got hooked on pain pills--as many in our nation do. For her, the addiction lead to a heroin addiction; leaving her homeless and distraught.
That's when she turned to the Boise VA for help. In the process of working with professionals, she says she was able to address mental health issues that needed addressing and got help with her addiction as well.
"It was kind of like a holistic approach to recovery, they addressed issues with my families that I had, they addressed finding a job. I think the hardest part for veterans when they need help is the reaching out-- and I just want to say-- reach out," said Arredondo.
A representative from the VA says they are continuing to look into new ways of improving access for veterans in need of crisis care.
If you or someone you love is in crisis, do not hesitate to reach out for help. The Veteran's Crisis Line is 1 (800) 273-8255 (PRESS 1), or you can text: 838255 to get help from professionals, 24/7. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255) is also available 24/7.
