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SAN ANTONIO – A decorated U.S. Navy veteran died by suicide outside the Audie L. Murphy Memorial Veterans Hospital earlier this week.
Mark Miller, 54, killed himself on Monday afternoon outside the front doors of the hospital. Steve Troudt, a chaplain with American Legion Post 300 who was a friend of Miller’s, said the veteran felt neglected. “My heart dropped because it was so unexpected,” Troudt said. “But he was so let down by the Veteran Health Administration and the military system.” Miller’s father shared an emotional post on Facebook after his son’s death, saying, “I lay the blame for my son’s death on the VA system and the psychiatrist who drugged him instead of helping him.” Miller and his father co-authored a book in 2021 titled Suicide Stalks the Sniper. The novel details Miller’s struggle with suicidal thoughts and his efforts to heal. Those who knew Miller described the suicide as a desperate plea for help and a call for change in veterans’ mental health care. Mark wanted help. He wanted somebody that would understand his pain and give him more than five minutes,” said Texas State Rep. Josey Garcia, who mentioned Miller’s death on the House floor while advocating for mental health legislation. “His life was not in vain. This was his own personal sacrifice to try and save somebody else.” Troudt echoed the need to turn tragedy into action, saying that every veteran who died by suicide leaves a lasting impact. “Every time someone makes that decision, they’ve affected a minimum of 135 people right away in their social circle,” he said. “To all the veterans out there — when it comes to your frame of mind, I do have your six,” Troudt added. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or thoughts of suicide, call 988 or text TALK to 741-741. You can also reach out to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) or the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) at 210-223-7233 (SAFE) or 800-316-9241. You can also text NAMI to 741-741.
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To highlight this, the non-profit organization compared each of the 50 states across three key dimensions: veteran community support, veteran health and wellness, and veteran employment and finances. SmileHub evaluated the dimensions using 21 metrics including the share of veteran-owned businesses to total VA spending per veteran to the share of homeless veterans. The organization found that the state of Virginia cared most about veteransin 2024 with a score of 67.42. The state ranked highest in the categories of community support and employment and finances. Florida took the runner-up spot with a score of 63.08. The state ranked second in the health & wellness category, right behind California. According to the results, Texas came in third, South Carolina in fourth and Pennsylvania in fifth. Most veteran friendly states
States with the most veteransAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, the three most populated states in the nation – California, Texas and Florida, have the highest populations of veterans. The least populous states in America – Wyoming, Vermont, North Dakota and Alaska, rank near the bottom for the number of veterans living there. RELATED: These states have the most veterans Veterans account for over 6% of the population, but there are at least four states – Alaska, Montana, Virginia and Wyoming – with a veteran population above 10%, according to Census data compiled by 24/7 Wall Street. All of those states except Montana house the largest military bases in the U.S. The Source:
Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health struggles often require support that is accessible, compassionate, and stigma-free. In Minnesota, a statewide commitment to mental health is offering just that — and programs like the “I’m Here to Listen” initiative are making a real difference for veterans. ⸻ “I’m Here to Listen”: Encouraging Veterans to Speak and Be Heard The “I’m Here to Listen” initiative is designed to create safe spaces where individuals can openly discuss their mental health. Through schools, workplaces, and community centers, the campaign identifies people ready to listen, offering reassurance and understanding. For veterans, knowing there are trusted listeners — whether peers, counselors, or community members — can be life-changing. This initiative aligns closely with MVP’s mission: help veterans feel seen, heard, and supported. By reducing stigma and encouraging conversation, veterans are empowered to seek help before crises escalate. ⸻ Free and Accessible Mental Health Services Minnesota provides a network of free and accessible mental health services that veterans can rely on: • Peer support services through Mental Health Minnesota, available by phone, text, or online chat, allow veterans to speak confidentially with trained peers who understand their struggles. • Walk-In Counseling Centers and virtual peer support networks make professional care immediately accessible without appointments or fees. • Support groups and educational programs through organizations like NAMI Minnesota provide veterans and their families with tools, knowledge, and community to navigate mental health challenges. These services ensure that veterans can find compassionate support wherever they are, whether at home, at work, or in community spaces. ⸻ A State Committed to Veteran Well-Being Minnesota’s collaborative, accessible, and stigma-free approach demonstrates how a community can come together to support mental health — especially for veterans. Programs like “I’m Here to Listen” and statewide advocacy efforts ensure that veterans are not alone in their journey. At the Military Veteran Project, we celebrate these efforts and encourage veterans in Minnesota to reach out. Healing begins with a single conversation — and thanks to Minnesota’s initiatives, support is always within reach.
No place that felt like his own. He told himself he’d get a job, settle down, and build a new life—but the flashbacks came first. The night terrors followed. Sleep became a stranger, and so did peace. He didn’t want to call his battle buddies. He didn’t want to be “that guy” — the one who couldn’t get it together after the uniform came off.
So he kept quiet. Until silence left him standing at the door of a homeless shelter, wondering how he’d gone from serving his country to sleeping on a cot among strangers. He said all he wanted was to be the man he was before service. But war changes a man’s chemistry, his body, his mind — even his hope. One day, while sitting in the back of a local community event, he overheard a volunteer from the Military Veteran Project speaking about programs to help veterans heal from within. Something about her words cut through the noise of shame and fear. For the first time in years he said it out loud “I think I need help.” That moment changed everything. Through MVP, he was connected to a civilian doctor who ran specialized tests to understand what was happening inside his body. For the first time, someone explained how trauma affects biochemistry, hormones, and sleep — and that there were alternative treatments that could help. With guidance from MVP and its partner organizations, he got enrolled in the VA, started the process of getting his service-connected rating, and found stable housing. He was introduced to treatments, nutritionist through programs like the Restore Project, helping him rebuild his health from within, and Building Hope, where he found purpose again. Today, he’s still healing — but he’s not doing it alone. He’s working, smiling, and helping other veterans take their first steps forward. He found more than support. He found himself again. “I thought I had to be the man I was before service… but now I’m learning to be the man I’m becoming after it.” #WalkWithMe #MilitaryVeteranProject #BuildingHope #TheRestoreProject #behindeverynumberisaname *Names changed and photos are generated to protect privacy In Pagosa Springs, veterans are finding support in both community connection and the natural healing resources the area is known for. The Vets4Vets network creates a space where veterans support one another directly, building peer-to-peer relationships that foster trust, understanding, and resilience. But Pagosa Springs offers more than just human connection. The town is famous for its historic healing waters, natural hot springs long celebrated for their restorative properties. Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress (PTSD) or traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can incorporate these therapeutic waters into their healing routines, combining physical relaxation with mental health recovery. In addition, alternative therapies such as guided meditation, yoga, hydrotherapy, and nature-based programs are available throughout the community. These therapies complement traditional treatments, helping veterans manage stress, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being. Vets4Vets programs include: • Peer mentorship and connection groups for shared experiences and mutual support • Resource navigation connecting veterans to local, state, and national services • Community events and engagement that reduce isolation and strengthen bonds • Integration of historic healing waters and alternative therapies to support PTSD and TBI recovery MVP highlights networks like Vets4Vets because healing is not only about clinical care — it’s about building relationships, accessing natural and alternative therapies, and fostering resilience among those who truly understand a veteran’s journey.
 He notices it most at night.
The house is quiet, the kids are in bed, and the only light in the kitchen comes from the refrigerator door. He stands there, still in an old unit T-shirt, staring at a half-empty carton of eggs, a jar of pickles, and the last sleeve of instant noodles. He’s done everything “right” since leaving the military — worked steady jobs when he could find them, stretched every paycheck, skipped meals so his kids didn’t have to. But somewhere between rising rent, gas, and medical co-pays, the grocery budget simply stopped stretching far enough. This is what food insecurity looks like for far too many veterans. And most of the time, no one sees it. The Quiet Crisis: Veteran Hunger in America Across the United States, millions of veterans and military families are struggling to keep food on the table. National estimates suggest that about 1 in 9 working-age veterans is food insecure — meaning they don’t always have enough to eat or aren’t sure where their next meal will come from. A major USDA study found that 11.1% of working-age veterans lived in food-insecure households, and 5.3% lived in households with very low food security, where meals are skipped and normal eating patterns are disrupted because there simply isn’t enough money for food. When you look closer at specific groups of veterans, the numbers become even more alarming:
Food Insecurity Is Not Just “Running Low on Groceries” Food insecurity is not just about hunger pangs or bare cupboards. For veterans, it’s deeply tied to health, mental health, and long-term stability. 1. Health Consequences Research in VA patient populations has shown that food insecurity is associated with worse control of chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. When a veteran cannot consistently afford nutritious food, it becomes harder to:
2. Mental Health and Suicide Risk For veterans already carrying invisible wounds, lack of access to food can be devastating. Recent studies have found that veterans experiencing food insecurity have significantly higher levels of depression and suicidal ideation compared to those who are food secure. One large study reported that veterans with food insecurity had nearly four times the odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts one year later than veterans without food insecurity. When food insecurity occurred alongside PTSD or major depression, the predicted risk of suicidal ideation was even higher. In other words: When the fridge is empty, hope can feel empty too. Food insecurity doesn’t just strain the body — it attacks dignity, increases stress, and compounds the sense of being left behind after service. Why Veterans Are at Higher Risk Veterans do not become food insecure in isolation. It is rarely about “poor budgeting” or “bad choices.” Instead, it sits at the intersection of multiple pressures:
These are not abstract numbers. They are the veteran sleeping in his truck between shifts. The single mom who served in Afghanistan, quietly skipping meals so her kids can eat. The older veteran living alone on a fixed income, too proud to admit she can’t afford fresh groceries anymore. The Gap Between Need and Support Federal nutrition programs like SNAP absolutely help — but they don’t reach everyone. A 2023 analysis from RAND found that many food-insecure veterans are not enrolled in programs they qualify for, including older veterans and those out of the workforce due to disability. Barriers include:
This is where the Military Veteran Project and the Restore Project choose to stand. How Food Insecurity Shows Up in Daily Life On our end of the phone line, food insecurity often sounds like: “I’m fine, I just need help until the end of the month.” “We have cereal but no milk.” “The kids are okay. I’m the one skipping meals.” “I can cover gas to get to my appointments or I can buy groceries, but not both.” Sometimes it doesn’t come up until we ask gentle, specific questions:
The Restore Project: Filling Plates, Restoring Hope The Restore Project, a program of the Military Veteran Project, exists to bridge the space between hunger and healing. We don’t just hand over a box and send veterans on their way. We focus on three pillars: 1. Groceries That Nourish We provide access to nutritious groceries — fresh produce, whole grains, lean proteins, and pantry staples that support stable blood sugar, energy, and mood. Veterans learn how to turn these ingredients into real meals that are:
In our hands-on cooking classes, veterans and families gather around the table to:
3. Dignity, Community, and Continuity We believe that support should never feel like charity. It should feel like community. That’s why Restore Project visits and classes are:
Why Filling This Gap Matters When we address food insecurity, we are not “just” feeding people. We are:
How You Can Stand in the Gap The Restore Project depends on donors, partners, and volunteers who refuse to let veterans fight hunger alone. Every gift, every partnership, every shared meal is a quiet but powerful message: “You served for us. Now we will stand for you.” For many veterans, the battle doesn’t end when they return home — it simply changes. The quiet struggles with pain, sleepless nights, stress, or the invisible wounds of war can often feel just as heavy as any deployment. That’s where hope steps in, through programs like those offered at Mass General Brigham in Salem, Massachusetts — and through organizations like the Military Veteran Project (MVP) who help veterans access them. Mass General Brigham’s team in Salem provides a comprehensive range of services that go far beyond traditional medical care. From nutritional counseling to ECT therapy, neuropsychological services, and substance use recovery programs, they focus on healing the whole person — body, mind, and spirit. ⸻ Nutrition as the First Line of Defense Veterans often face unique challenges when it comes to nutrition. Years of service can take a toll on metabolism, sleep, and energy balance. The nutrition specialists at Mass General Brigham understand that every veteran’s journey is different — whether they’re managing diabetes, rebuilding muscle, or simply trying to feel better day-to-day. Through personalized nutritional counseling, veterans can regain control of their health, one meal at a time. MVP believes that empowering veterans with knowledge about their own bodies is a form of self-respect — and healing starts there. ⸻ Advanced Mental Health Support When depression or trauma becomes too heavy to carry alone, ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) and neuropsychological treatment offer new hope. These therapies are guided by leading professionals who combine science with compassion — helping veterans find clarity, stability, and peace after years of silent suffering. MVP sees this as life-changing care. “It’s not just about mental health — it’s about restoring the spark that many veterans thought they’d lost forever,” says Melissa Jarboe, Founder of the Military Veteran Project.
⸻ Substance Use Recovery With Dignity For veterans navigating addiction or dependency, Mass General Brigham’s Substance Use Recovery Program provides a lifeline built on respect and evidence-based care. These programs focus on rebuilding resilience — giving veterans the tools and support to overcome dependency and reclaim purpose in their lives. MVP connects veterans to these trusted recovery resources as part of its mission to prevent suicide and restore quality of life for those who’ve served. ⸻ Connections That Save Lives Through collaboration between MVP and medical leaders like Mass General Brigham, veterans gain access to a circle of care that understands their past and invests in their future. Together, they stand for one mission — to help every veteran heal, recover, and thrive. ⸻ Every Veteran Deserves a Chance to Heal Stories like these remind us that behind every treatment and therapy, there’s a life being rebuilt. The Military Veteran Project is proud to highlight organizations like Mass General Brigham that share the same belief — that no veteran should ever fight their battles alone. Healing begins with one step — and you don’t have to take it alone. A Lifeline for Veterans For many veterans, returning home doesn’t always mean leaving the challenges of service behind. Emotional scars, trauma, and mental health struggles can linger long after deployment. In Galveston County, Texas, a community-wide approach to mental health is offering veterans a path to healing — one that connects clinics, schools, churches, and county offices in a network designed to support the whole person. ⸻ A Community Working Together Galveston County has embraced a collaborative model for mental health and well-being, ensuring that help is available wherever it’s needed. This network includes: • Health clinics providing counseling, psychiatric care, and substance use recovery services • Schools offering youth-focused support and early interventions • Churches and faith-based organizations hosting peer support programs and recovery clinics • County offices coordinating resources, outreach, and public health programs By bringing these institutions together, Galveston creates an environment where mental health care is not just available — it’s accessible, connected, and community-driven.
⸻ How Veterans Benefit Veterans often face unique challenges, from PTSD and anxiety to substance use and social isolation. The collaborative approach in Galveston helps address these challenges on multiple fronts: • Integrated Care: Veterans can receive mental health support, medical care, and social services without navigating multiple disconnected systems. • Peer and Community Support: Faith-based programs and community centers provide spaces where veterans can share experiences and build supportive networks. • Youth and Family Programs: For veterans with families, school-based and county programs help ensure the next generation has strong emotional support, which in turn strengthens the veteran’s own well-being. • Substance Use Recovery: Clinics and faith organizations coordinate to provide both treatment and long-term support, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting sustainable recovery. MVP recognizes that this kind of community-based, multi-institutional support is exactly what many veterans need to regain stability, purpose, and hope. ⸻ A Model for Healing Galveston County demonstrates that when a community comes together, mental health care becomes proactive, compassionate, and effective. Veterans here are not just accessing treatment — they are becoming part of a network that fosters resilience, connection, and empowerment. At the Military Veteran Project, we are proud to highlight communities like Galveston, where collaborative care shows that healing is possible — and veterans are never alone on their journey. For many veterans, the challenges of returning home can feel invisible to those who haven’t served. Emotional scars, trauma, and mental health struggles often linger long after deployment. In Omaha, Nebraska, community mental health programs are stepping up to ensure that veterans don’t face these battles alone. Through patient-centered care management, veterans in Omaha receive personalized support tailored to their unique experiences. Every plan is designed with one goal in mind: helping veterans regain control of their lives and heal holistically — mentally, emotionally, and physically. ⸻ Trauma-Informed Care That Puts Veterans First Trauma is rarely one-size-fits-all. In Omaha, mental health providers employ trauma-focused therapies that address the root causes of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other challenges. By understanding each veteran’s history, clinicians create safe, compassionate spaces where healing is not just possible — it’s expected. MVP sees this as a cornerstone of veteran care. “Every veteran carries experiences that shape who they are,” says Melissa Jarboe, Founder of the Military Veteran Project. “Having providers who honor that and build treatment around it is transformative.” ⸻ Comprehensive Psychiatric Support Some battles require more than counseling alone. Omaha’s community mental health centers offer psychiatric services that combine therapy, medication management, and ongoing monitoring to stabilize and improve mental wellness. Veterans gain access to expert care that is proactive, rather than reactive, helping prevent crises before they escalate. ⸻ Detoxification and Recovery Programs Substance use often intersects with mental health challenges for veterans, making recovery complex. In Omaha, detoxification programs are integrated into broader mental health care, allowing veterans to safely withdraw from harmful substances while receiving emotional and psychological support. This dual-focus approach ensures recovery addresses both the body and mind — giving veterans a stronger foundation for long-term wellness. ⸻ A Community United for Veterans For the Military Veteran Project, Omaha’s patient-centered mental health approach embodies our mission: no veteran should navigate trauma or mental health challenges alone. By highlighting programs that provide trauma-informed therapy, psychiatric care, and detoxification, MVP ensures veterans know where to turn for trusted, life-saving support. ⸻ Healing Starts with One Step Veterans in Omaha now have access to a full circle of care that prioritizes their needs, respects their experiences, and empowers their recovery. The Military Veteran Project continues to spotlight these programs, connecting veterans to resources that can truly change lives. For veterans seeking support, reaching out is the first step — and Omaha’s community mental health providers are ready to walk alongside them.
In San Diego, veterans find a robust network of support through the Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD), a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans and their families in overcoming homelessness, addiction, unemployment, and mental health challenges. Since its inception in 1981, VVSD has been a cornerstone in the community, providing a range of services designed to help veterans achieve self-sufficiency and wellness. Comprehensive Programs at VVSD VVSD offers a variety of programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of veterans: • Transitional Housing: Providing temporary housing solutions for veterans in need. • Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): Assisting veterans and their families with financial assistance and housing stability. • Workforce Development: Offering job training and placement services to help veterans reintegrate into the civilian workforce. • Cohen Clinic Mental Health Services: Providing confidential, high-quality therapy and local referral support services to post-9/11 veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserves, and their families. • Homeless Court: Assisting veterans in resolving legal issues that may be barriers to housing and employment. These programs are designed to address the multifaceted challenges veterans face, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to thrive. Mental Health Services in San Diego Beyond VVSD, San Diego boasts a comprehensive array of mental health services for veterans: • VA San Diego Health Care System: Offers a comprehensive behavioral health program providing outpatient services, including individual and group therapy for various mental health issues. • San Diego Vet Center: Provides confidential counseling for needs such as depression, PTSD, and the psychological effects of military sexual trauma, in a non-medical setting. • Solara Mental Health: A VA-authorized treatment center exclusively for U.S. veterans, offering residential and outpatient mental health and substance use care, fully covered by the VA. • Monima Wellness Center: Offers specialized mental health treatment programs for active duty members, veterans, and their families, with a trauma-informed, women-centered approach. • Father Joe’s Villages: Provides medical, behavioral health, substance use disorder, and psychiatry services, with same-day walk-in access to care. These services ensure that veterans in San Diego have access to comprehensive mental health care, addressing a wide range of needs from crisis intervention to long-term support. A Model for Comprehensive Veteran Care The collaborative efforts of VVSD and the broader San Diego community exemplify a model of comprehensive care for veterans. By integrating housing, employment, legal assistance, and mental health services, veterans are supported holistically, addressing the root causes of their challenges and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. At the Military Veteran Project, we recognize the importance of such integrated support systems and encourage veterans to explore the resources available in San Diego. Whether seeking housing, employment, or mental health services, veterans can find a network of support dedicated to their well-being. Thank you Team San Diego!!
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The Military Veteran Project is a non-profit 501 (c)3 organization, IRS identification number 46-0877378. Donations made to the Military Veteran Project are tax deductible in the U.S. ·