A new study released by the Department of Veteran Affairs says 20 veterans commit suicide every day in our country.
The number is down from 22 per day and compares suicides from 2014 to 2013. Veteran over the age of 50 made up 65% of those suicides.
Local veterans reacted to the new numbers identifying with the struggles a veteran faces when coming back from war.
Those that offer services to veterans in Kern County want them to know there are other options instead of suicide.
The county's Veteran Services Department and the Bakersfield Vet center say they both have trained personnel to deal with suicide.
If you are considering suicide and need help, call the national Veterans Crisis line at 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1.
Here is the information for local services.
Kern County Veterans Service Department
1120 Golden State Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone (661) 868-7300
Toll-free Phone: (866) 218-5367
Bakersfield Vet Center
1110 Golden State Ave.
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Phone: 661-323-8387 Or 877-927-8387
