More Attempted Suicides Among Military

MHMR Seeing More Attempted Suicides Among Military
Monica Balderrama-KFOX News Reporter
Posted: 4:44 pm MDT September 8, 2009
Updated: 9:08 pm MDT September 8, 2009

EL PASO, Texas -- Officials for El Paso's local authority for mental health said they're seeing an increase of suicides among military personnel. But how can an agency that cut off 1,500 patients because of a budget shortfall help?

El Paso Mental Health Mental Retardation is making some changes and additions to its facility to accommodate a growing trend among military families. One of those new elements is that the staff is training for post-traumatic stress disorder.

"The dreams are always gonna be there. Just live with it. You can still see the pictures of all the dead. They're going to be there all your life," said Mike Anslinger.

Anslinger just retired from the military after 22 years. He was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Anslinger is just one of hundreds in the Fort Bliss/El Paso community who suffer from PTSD symptoms.

"The suicides have soared for this war beyond any other war in history," said Jesus Quiroga, the manager for intake and crisis emergency for the MHMR.

As KFOX reported, MHMR will be cutting off 1,500 patients because of a budget shortfall, but soldiers with insurance will be able to get services. Quiroga says MHMR has seen an increase in attempted suicides among the military.
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