"No Way to Ask for Help": Veteran Raises Suicide Prevention Awareness in Siouxland

Supporting Veterans Through Mental Health Awareness

In Sioux City, Iowa, a local veteran is making a significant impact by helping others navigate the mental challenges that often accompany military service. Brandon Fleming, an American Legion member and Air Force veteran from the late 1980s, has taken it upon himself to raise awareness about the struggles veterans face and provide support to those in need.

Fleming shared his insights on the difficulties many veterans encounter after returning home. “As veterans, we do go through a lot,” he said. “Some veterans have it really easy; they don’t do a lot. Other veterans, who are in combat, their service time is really stressful.” He emphasized that the transition back to civilian life can be incredibly challenging, with many facing invisible wounds such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

According to Fleming, these issues can lead to devastating consequences. “Seventeen veterans commit suicide every single day,” he noted. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for greater awareness and support for veterans dealing with mental health challenges.

Fleming’s journey into advocacy began after meeting a man named Grumpy, who was distributing cards and bracelets designed to help veterans cope with their struggles. “Hearing his story and the experiences of his family members made me think I could do more,” Fleming recalled. “I can help him spread this message.”

Today, Fleming volunteers with the American Legion and uses his position to assist veterans in need. He pointed out that many veterans who are struggling don’t know where to turn. “There’s not a lot of resources, even in the military, for veterans to use,” he said. “So if a veteran’s struggling, if they’re depressed or anxious, there’s no way to ask for help. In the military, we’re taught not to ask for help. If we have problems, we fix it ourselves, and because of that mindset from the military, a lot of veterans get out and struggle.”

Fleming stressed the importance of breaking the stigma around suicide and mental health. “Most people who suffer, who are thinking of committing suicide, are suffering from depression or anxiety,” he explained. “That is kind of swept under the rug in this society. You don’t hear a lot about suicide, no matter where you’re at. It’s just not talked about, and it’s something that needs to be discussed.”

His efforts have already started making a difference. “I got a call from Moville,” Fleming said. “And I was able to help out a vet down there. Another gentleman in our Post took the card that I handed out. He gave it to another veteran, and that veteran called him asking for help, and he was able to redirect that veteran back to the 9-8-8 option, and that veteran got help, so this is working.”

Fleming believes that one of the most effective ways to support struggling veterans is through simple human connection. “Be the one who steps up,” he said. “How can I help you? Can we go somewhere and talk? Can we have some coffee? That’s the biggest thing is just talking.”

Each month, Fleming sets up a booth to share his program around Siouxland. On August 1, he will be located at the Southern Hills Mall. His goal is to reach as many veterans as possible and offer them the support they need.

If you, or someone you know, is struggling with mental health or thoughts of suicide, there are resources available. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers assistance via call, text, or chat. It is available every day of the year, all hours of the day. This lifeline is a critical resource for anyone in need of immediate help.

By raising awareness and providing support, Fleming is helping to create a network of care for veterans across the region. His work serves as a reminder that even small actions can make a big difference in the lives of those who have served their country.