Episode Details

In this episode, I break down Veterans Affairs Canada’s committee report on veteran suicide and argue Canada has known for decades that veterans face elevated suicide risk but has failed to act or even properly track deaths—especially among reservists. I highlight key figures cited in the hearings, including that a veteran dies by suicide every nine days, higher suicide rates versus the general population (including sharply elevated risk for men under 29 and for women veterans), and major service-related risk factors like PTSD/operational trauma, moral injury, chronic pain, identity loss during transition, and betrayal/sanctuary trauma. I compare Canada’s limited data to Australia’s comprehensive approach and share testimony about re-traumatization through repeated claims processes, families being locked out of supports, gaps in care, and the lack of a veteran option on 988. I close with the report’s 12 recommendations and specific actions viewers can demand from Parliament.

Join a community of veterans getting fit AF and staying in the fight: https://hardtokill.org/

Read the entire report here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1N-LRH6TZpAJyVIjMxsTG_DkXy7EpF8HW/view?usp=sharing